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Voting Rights: British Nationals Abroad

Asked by Kevin HollinrakeConservativeMinistry of Housing, Communities and Local GovernmentTabled Answered 3 April 2025UIN 41056

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether she plans to help increase (a) registration and (b) participation in elections by overseas British electors.

Answered by Rushanara Ali

The Government is committed to improving electoral registration. We are exploring a wide range of options to deliver on this manifesto commitment.

As set out in our response to the Electoral Commission’s evaluation of the 2024 general election, published last month (Electoral Commission’s reports on the 2024 elections: government response - GOV.UK), the Government recognises the Commission’s findings with regards to the difficulties faced by British citizens living overseas when trying to participate in UK elections.

As part of our review of electoral registration and conduct, the Government, in partnership with electoral practitioners and the Electoral Commission, is examining several aspects of the system for overseas electors, with a view to identifying practical solutions to some of the challenges faced.

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