§ Mr. Peter Bruinvelsasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what steps he is taking to publicise the new rights to vote given to British citizens abroad in the Representation of the People Act 1985; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. EggarIn addition to various articles, interviews and press notices, arrangements have been made to advertise the terms of the Representation of the People Act 1985 in certain British publications with a wide readership overseas and also in leading newspapers in countries with the largest British expatriate communities. A number of major multinational employers have agreed to inform their overseas staff. Diplomatic posts and consulates are arranging widespread publicity both about the new voting rights and local arrangement for registration. This includes advertisements in the local press, the placing of press notices, informing British clubs and orgainsations and, where practical, writing to all Britons on consular registration lists.