Changes to postal and proxy vote applications
Residents in St Albans District are advised that changes are being made to the way you can apply for postal and proxy votes.
From Tuesday 31 October, voters will be able to apply for a postal vote by completing an online application form at www.gov.uk/apply-postal-vote.
Previously, postal votes could only be applied for by completing a paper application form.
Paper forms will still be available from the Electoral Commission’s website at www.electoralcommission.org.uk/i-am-a/voter,
They can also be requested from St Albans City and District Council’s Electoral Services team via email or phone at elections@stalbans.gov.uk or 01727 819294.
Postal votes will last for a maximum of three years with voters required to re-apply for their postal vote at the end of this period.
If you currently have a postal vote in place, you do not need to take any action now. The Council will write to you when it is time to renew.
Proxy voting is also changing from the same date. Under new rules, voters will be limited to acting as a proxy for two people, regardless of their relationship.
Anyone voting on behalf of UK voters who live overseas may be eligible to act as a proxy for up to four people.
Voters will be able to apply online at www.gov.uk/apply-proxy-vote for some types of proxy vote from Tuesday 31 October.
A National Insurance number will need to be provided on postal vote and proxy vote applications. If someone is not able to provide it, alternative proof of identity may be accepted.
These changes are part of the Elections Act and further information can be found at www.electoralcommission.org.uk/who-we-are-and-what-we-do/our-views-and-research/elections-act.
Media contact: John McJannet, Principal Communications Officer: 01727 819533, john.mcjannet@stalbans.gov.uk.