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 Automatic Electoral Registration Bill seeks to increase voter registration rates by implementing several key measures:

• Duty to Ensure Accurate Registers: The Secretary of State must ensure electoral registers are at least 98% accurate and complete, directing local authorities to take necessary actions if this target isn't met.
• Data Matching and Sharing: Public bodies (e.g., HMRC, DVLA, NHS) must share relevant data (names, addresses, age, nationality) with registration officers to identify eligible voters. This includes data from tax returns, driving licence applications, NHS registrations, benefit claims, and passport applications.
• Delegation of Registration Functions: Certain institutions (universities, hospitals, schools) will be responsible for collecting and reporting voter information from their residents and students.
• Notification and Emendation: Registered individuals will be notified to verify their information, and those incorrectly registered can request amendments.
• Civil Penalties: A £500 penalty will be imposed on individuals who fail to cooperate with registration officers.
• Unregistered Dwellings: Registration officers must actively canvass dwellings not on the electoral register.
• Digital Software System: A single, integrated software system will be implemented for managing electoral registers nationwide.

Government Spending

The bill will lead to increased government expenditure. The exact figures are not specified in the bill but will cover the costs of implementing the new software system, additional staffing or resources for local authorities, and any other costs associated with the data-sharing and registration processes.

Groups Affected

• Voters: Potentially increased ease of registration, but also potential privacy concerns regarding data sharing.
• Registration Officers: Increased workload, requiring new procedures and the use of new software.
• Local Authorities: Increased responsibilities and potential costs related to ensuring accurate registration.
• Public Bodies (e.g., HMRC, DVLA, NHS): Increased responsibilities for data sharing and compliance.
• Institutions (universities, hospitals, schools): New duty to collect and submit voter data.
• Individuals failing to cooperate: Subject to a £500 penalty.

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