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 agencies and registration officers to identify eligible voters and introduces penalties for non-cooperation.

Description

The Automatic Electoral Registration Bill seeks to achieve a more accurate and complete electoral register. Key features include:

• Duty on the Secretary of State: To ensure electoral registers are at least 98% accurate and complete, potentially directing local authorities to allocate more resources to registration officers.
• Data Sharing: Mandates data sharing between various public bodies (including HMRC, DVLA, NHS, and benefit agencies) and registration officers for voter registration. Data will include information from tax returns, driving licenses, GP registrations, school records, benefit claims, and passport applications.
• Delegation of Functions: Institutions like universities, hospitals, and schools will be required to collect and report relevant information for students, employees, and pupils aged 16+.
• Notification and Correction: Registered individuals will be notified and given the chance to correct any errors.
• Penalties: A £500 penalty will be imposed for non-cooperation with registration officers.
• Canvassing: Registration officers must canvass dwellings with no registered voters.
• Digital System: The Secretary of State must create a single, integrated software system for managing electoral registers.

Government Spending

The bill will lead to government expenditure on implementing the new digital system, covering the Secretary of State's costs and any increased payments under other Acts. Specific figures are not provided in the bill.

Groups Affected

• Voters: Potentially increased accuracy of electoral registers, making it easier to register and ensuring everyone eligible can vote.
• Registration Officers: Increased workload but potentially improved tools and resources.
• Public Bodies: Obligation to share data, requiring adjustments to data handling procedures.
• Local Authorities: Potential additional costs to support registration officers.
• Individuals who don't cooperate: Risk of a £500 penalty for failing to provide information.
• Institutions (Universities, Hospitals, Schools): New responsibility for collecting and sharing data on eligible voters.

Powered by nyModel