Millions of expatriate Britons regain voting rights

In a historic move, an estimated 3.4 million British citizens residing abroad can reclaim their voting rights in British General Elections and referendums.

This monumental change comes following the enactment of the Elections Act 2022, marking the most significant expansion of the British electoral franchise since granting full suffrage to women in 1928.

Goodbye to the 15-year limit

As of Tuesday, January 16, 2024, the arbitrary 15-year voting limit has been abolished. Now, British citizens around the world can register to vote online, regardless of their duration overseas.

The UK Government website will be updated allowing for overseas voter registration using the new unrestricted rules. This registration will be tied to their last UK address, whether it was their voting registration or residence.

At the same time, the Electoral Commission will launch an extensive advertising campaign called ‘All Abroad!’ to encourage Britons based overseas to register to vote.

Extended electoral participation

Upon registration, expatriate voters will remain on the electoral roll for up to 3 years, ensuring they have ample opportunities to cast their ballots.

Additionally, registered electors will have the option to apply online for either a postal or proxy vote, further enhancing their participation in the democratic process.

This historic moment is the culmination of the ‘Votes for Life’ campaign, championed by Conservatives Abroad, the global network of members and supporters of the British Conservative Party living overseas. ‘Votes for Life’ had long been a commitment within the Conservative Manifesto.

Defying opposition

Notably, today’s enactment comes despite opposition from the Labour and Liberal Democrat parties. Labour was responsible for introducing the 15-year rule in 2001, which curtailed democratic freedoms.

The Liberal Democrats, during their coalition with the Conservatives from 2010 to 2015, also impeded efforts to reverse this rule.

Political reactions

Secretary of State for the Department for Levelling up, Housing and Communities, Michael Gove MP, expressed his enthusiasm.

‘From today, millions of British nationals across the world can exercise their right to vote in future General Elections and have their say in the way their country should be governed.’

Gove added: ‘The Conservatives have once again shown that we are the party for democracy and protecting an individual’s right to vote.’

Richard Holden MP, Conservative Party Chairman, applauded the years of dedication from party members.

‘After years of hard work from Conservatives Abroad and our party members we have finally seen the biggest expansion of our democratic franchise in almost a century, despite persistent opposition from Labour and Liberal Democrats.’

‘I look forward to reaching out and connecting with our overseas voters in the months ahead.’

Heather Harper MBE, Chairman of Conservatives Abroad, led the campaign to restore the franchise. She noted, ‘Millions of people living abroad, both working and retired, have been prevented from exercising their democratic right to vote.

‘This new measure puts Britain back on a par with democracies such as the USA, France, Italy, and New Zealand in recognising the importance of their citizens worldwide.’

The restoration of voting rights for millions of British citizens living abroad marks a pivotal moment in British democracy.

The ‘Votes for Life’ campaign’s success ensures that expatriates can actively participate in shaping the future of their homeland, irrespective of their time spent overseas.

It marks a substantial leap forward in embracing the global community of British citizens and their voices in the democratic process.