HC Deb 26 February 2001 vol 363 cc481-2W
Mr. Chope

To ask the Secretary State for the Home Department for what reasons the suggested format for the new form for postal votes being sent by his Department to electoral registration offices includes a request that those aged 70 years or over should tick a box. [151519]

Mr. Mike O'Brien

There is no requirement or any proposal for electors aged 70 years or over to declare their age when applying for a postal or proxy vote. I recently circulated to all Members two application forms: one for use when registering under the new rolling registration system and one for use when applying for a postal vote. The registration form asks those who are over 70 to tick a box. This is standard registration procedure and allows those electors to avoid being called for jury service from which they are exempt. The postal vote form makes no mention of age.