Elections: residents reminded of registration deadline

Manchester residents are being reminded that today, 20 April, is the deadline to ensure they are on the electoral register for the 6 May 2010 general election.

Local Elections are also taking place on 6 May, but people will not be able to vote in either election unless they are on the electoral register.

Manchester City Council's "Don't lose your voice" publicity campaign has been reminding would-be voters across the city of the importance of being registered.

But with the absolute deadline for electoral registration for both elections looming at 5pm on Tuesday 20 April, residents are being reminded that time is running out.

Those who have changed address or name (for instance through marriage) recently are also encouraged to contact the elections unit to make sure their details are up to date.

Sir Howard Bernstein, (Acting) Returning Officer for Manchester, said: "Elections are a vital opportunity to influence important decisions on issues which affect their everyday lives. We don't want anybody to lose their democratic voice.

"People can sometimes assume that because they have other dealings with the council, for instance paying their council tax, that they are automatically placed on the electoral register but by law electoral registration is an entirely separate process. I'd encourage anyone who's in doubt whether they are registered to get in touch." 

Applying to be registered is quick and easy. Registration forms are available to collect from local libraries. Alternatively, residents can visit www.manchester.gov.uk/registertovote or email esu@manchester.gov.uk

And a dedicated call centre has been set up by the Council's elections unit to deal with all electoral registration and elections-related enquiries. It can be contacted on 0161 2341212.

Anyone who is on the electoral register can also apply for a postal vote. The deadline by which to make a request is also 5pm on 20 April.