Moray’s election returning officer has issued a warning that many people expecting to vote in May’s general election could find themselves locked out of polling stations.
His warning came as national research conducted by YouGov on behalf of the Electoral Commission found that over one-fifth of those of voting age in private rental accommodation believe that they are automatically registered to vote so long as they pay council tax.
The study also found that 40% of people are not aware that they can register to vote online – and even if they did, as many as 69% don’t know the deadline they need to meet for registering their right to vote.
On the back of the Electoral Commission launching a national voter registration campaign this week, Moray’s returning officer, Mark Palmer, said: “Time is now running short to make sure you can take part in the elections.
“I would encourage everyone in Moray to take action now if they are not registered to vote – our message is simple, you cannot vote if you are not registered by April 20.”
People can check if they are registered by calling the Electoral Registration Office in Moray on 01343 541203. To register online they can visit http://www.gov.uk/register-to-vote.