Chapter 5 · Government & Law
Voting and Elections
Source: Handbook p.130
Key election facts:
• General elections: at least every 5 years, using first past the post
• UK, Irish, and qualifying Commonwealth citizens can vote in all elections
• EU citizens can vote in local elections only
• Voting age: 18
• You must register to vote (on the electoral register)
• Voting is not compulsory but is encouraged
• By-elections are held when a seat becomes vacant
• Scotland and Wales use proportional representation for their devolved elections
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