Overview

This bill aims to clarify and codify the existing ban on prisoners voting in UK parliamentary and local government elections. It explicitly defines who is considered a prisoner for the purpose of this disqualification and ensures the ban applies to sentences imposed both before and after the bill's enactment.

Description

The Convicted Prisoners Voting Bill establishes a clear legal framework for excluding prisoners from voting. Key aspects include:

• Voting Ban: Prisoners serving custodial sentences are explicitly barred from voting in parliamentary or local elections.
• Definition of "Prisoner": The bill defines "prisoner" to encompass individuals detained in prison, on temporary release, or unlawfully at large, but who would otherwise be in prison. It also clarifies the meaning of "custodial sentence," specifying imprisonment, detention, or custody for an offence (including those imposed by foreign courts).
• Exclusions from "Sentence": The bill excludes committals for non-payment of fines or for contempt of court from the definition of "sentence."
• Retroactive Application: The bill applies to individuals sentenced both before and after its enactment.
• Geographical Scope: The bill applies across the United Kingdom.

Government Spending

The bill is not expected to have a significant direct impact on government spending. The cost of implementing the legislation is likely minimal, relating primarily to administrative changes and legal publication costs. No specific figures are available within the provided text.

Groups Affected

The bill primarily affects:

• Prisoners: They are directly affected by the continued disenfranchisement. The bill clarifies the existing ban, but doesn't change the fundamental right to vote being suspended for those incarcerated.
• Election Officials: The bill provides clearer guidelines for electoral administrators regarding the disqualification of prisoners, ensuring consistency in eligibility checks.

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