Voting and Elections

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