CAN I urge everyone to register to vote in order to secure their say in next year’s general election and the elections for Herefordshire Council?
However, can I also warn that some people will need to persevere to secure their democratic right? The suggestion that online registration will simplify registration may not be borne out in practice.
My experience suggests otherwise. Despite living at the same address for 27 years I was not automatically transferred to the new register. Although I provided my National Insurance number (not required before) I now need to provide copies of my passport, birth certificate and marriage certificate (presumably because I choose not to adopt my husband’s surname).
Another member of my household has also been asked to provide further evidence.
My impression when I have canvassed in recent elections in the county is that already noticeable numbers of households do not seem to be registered (compared to the 1980s and 1990s).
I’m worried that unless there is a real effort to encourage voter registration, our democracy will be further degraded.
ANNA CODA Peterchurch
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