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<p>All applicants registering to vote are asked to provide their name, National Insurance Number, and date of birth. This information is then matched against records held by the Department for Work and Pensions to establish the identity of the applicant. The provision of false information on an application to register to vote is a criminal offence under the Representation of the People Regulations, England & Wales 2001 and Representation of the People Regulations, Scotland 2001 which carries an unlimited fine in England & Wales, a fine of up to £5000 in Scotland, and/or a maximum prison sentence in both jurisdictions of up to 6 months.</p><p> </p><p>Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) have a general duty under section 9A of the Representation of the People Act 1983 to maintain a complete and accurate register of electors; where an ERO is not satisfied as to the accuracy of the information stated in a registration application, the ERO may require the applicant to supply further information in support of their application before making a determination. This could include requesting information on an applicant’s nationality or immigration status and verifying that information with the Home Office.</p> |