Register to Vote or Lose the Right to Vote and Much More!

Published on 23 August 2010

Over the next couple of weeks every household in the Epping Forest District will receive the annual canvass of electors form. By law everyone eligible to vote must be on the electoral register and to do that the annual canvass of electors must be completed.

Not filling in the form could get you a £1,000 fine and a criminal record and prevent you from voting in local and national elections, including the proposed government referendum in May. But the consequences could be far worse. Not filling in the form could prevent you from getting a job, buying a house, taking out a mobile phone contract, registering with a GP or even enrolling your child in a new school. This is due to credit agencies and organisations using the electoral register to confirm names and addressses.

Completing the form is easy. All you need to do is check the details, make any changes, sign it and return it in the free pre-paid envelope. All forms must be returned by Friday 17 September 2010.

Ian Willett, Returning Officer for the Epping Forest District said: "If you don’t register, you can’t vote! It’s as simple as that. Elections can be called as late as 17 working days before the election day, so don’t wait until its too late. Not registering can have an adverse effect on lots of areas of your life, it's not just about voting."

Mr Willett continued: "As soon as you get the form, check it and send it back by Friday 17 September. Don't delay, sending out reminders costs you the taxpayer money. If you are unsure of what to do call our Electoral Services Team on 01992 564411, but do not ignore it. If you want a say on how your local council or government is run, register to vote now!"

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