28/03/2007 - Don’t let registration myths make you miss your chance to vote

Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council is warning that believing urban myths about electoral registration could mean people miss out on the chance to vote in the local elections taking place on 3 May.

Voting in the local elections is the most important way for local people to make their voice heard on the issues that concern them most.  However it is not possible to vote without being registered on the electoral register and the deadline for registering in time for this May’s elections is fast approaching.

The last day for registering to vote in this year’s local government elections is 18 April.  Electoral registration forms must be received by the council by this date. An electoral registration form can be obtained from the Electoral Commission’s website www.aboutmyvote.co.uk or from Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council’s website www.welhat.gov.uk

There are many myths and misconceptions surrounding registration, but it is important to know the real rights and wrongs behind the process. The main facts to remember are:

• Registration information is required by law during the annual canvass of electors, which takes place in the autumn. 
• Failing to provide the information requested during the canvass of electors is an offence.
• People are not automatically registered to vote, even if they pay council tax.

Residents can check they are listed on the electoral register by contacting the council’s Electoral Services Officer on 01707 357000.

Michel Saminaden, Chief Executive of Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council, said: “Local politics affects all of us in our everyday lives. If you don’t register to vote in the local elections then you won’t have a say on the issues that affect you. There are many myths about registering to vote, but the golden rule is to fill in a registration form if you are not already registered and return it to the council to secure your vote, and your voice, at election time.”