10.3: Voting and UK Parliament
Voting is a fundamental right and responsibility in the UK. The current system ensures that almost all adult citizens can participate in the democratic process.
Who Can Vote?
The UK established universal suffrage in 1928, and the voting age was lowered to 18 in 1969.
- UK Citizens: Aged 18 and over.
- Commonwealth Citizens: Resident in the UK and aged 18+.
- Citizens of the Irish Republic: Resident in the UK and aged 18+.
- EU Citizens: Can vote in local elections (subject to residency criteria), but cannot vote in UK General Elections.
The Electoral Register
To vote, you must be on the electoral register. This is updated annually in September or October.
- Great Britain: Registration is typically handled per household via a form sent to the address.
- Northern Ireland: Uses individual registration; each person must complete their own form.
The Voting Process
On election day, polling stations are open from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm.
Voter ID Requirements: You are now required to show photographic identification to vote in person at polling stations for UK General Elections and local elections in England. If you do not have an accepted form of ID, you can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate.
How to Vote
- Polling Station: Go to the location listed on your poll card.
- Identification: Provide your name and address (and show photo ID).
- Ballot Paper: Mark your choice in a private booth and place it in the ballot box.
- Postal Voting: If you cannot attend in person, you can apply for a postal ballot when you register.
Standing for Office
Most UK, Irish, or Commonwealth citizens aged 18 or over can stand for public office. However, some are disqualified:
- Members of the armed forces.
- Civil servants.
- People convicted of certain criminal offences.
- Peers in the House of Lords cannot stand for election to the House of Commons.
Visiting Devolved Administrations
The public is encouraged to engage with their representatives and watch debates in person.
Visiting the Parliaments
- UK Parliament (London): Visitors can attend debates at the Palace of Westminster for free.
- Scottish Parliament (Edinburgh): Based in Holyrood. Visitors can book tours or tickets through Visitor Services.
- Senedd (Cardiff Bay): Formerly the National Assembly for Wales, it is now officially known as Senedd Cymru or the Welsh Parliament.
- Northern Ireland Assembly (Belfast): Located at Stormont. Visits can be arranged via an MLA or the Education Service.