Overview

This bill aims to improve the accuracy and completeness of electoral registers in the UK by automating the registration process. It mandates data sharing between government bodies and registration officers to identify eligible voters and introduces penalties for non-cooperation.

Description

The bill places a duty on the Secretary of State to ensure electoral registers are at least 98% accurate and complete. It allows the Secretary of State to direct registration officers and local authorities to take necessary steps to achieve this, including providing additional resources.

Data Sharing

The bill requires public bodies (including HMRC, DVLA, NHS, schools, and DWP) to share specified information with registration officers for electoral registration purposes. This includes data from tax returns, driving licence applications, NHS registrations, school registrations, benefit claims, and passport applications. Registration officers will use this information to register eligible voters automatically or contact individuals for missing information.

Delegation of Functions

Certain institutions, such as universities, hospitals, and schools, will be responsible for collecting and reporting relevant information for their residents/employees.

Penalties

The bill introduces a £500 penalty for individuals who do not cooperate with registration officers.

Software System

The Secretary of State must implement a single, integrated software system for managing all UK electoral registers.

Government Spending

The bill will lead to increased government expenditure. The exact amount is not specified, but it will cover costs associated with implementing the new system, providing additional resources to registration officers, and any other expenditure related to the Act's enforcement.

Groups Affected

Groups potentially affected include:

• Voters: Potentially increased ease of registration, but also potential for privacy concerns related to data sharing.
• Registration Officers: Increased workload and responsibilities, alongside access to more data.
• Local Authorities: Increased responsibilities and potentially increased costs.
• Public Bodies (e.g., HMRC, DVLA, NHS): Required to share data, potentially increasing administrative burdens.
• Individuals who do not cooperate: Face a £500 penalty.

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