Changes to the law mean Derby City Council needs to review its electoral register, and if you are from the European Union, this could affect you.
Following the UK’s departure from the European Union, The Elections Act 2022 brought with it changes to elections where EU citizens can vote, or stand as a candidate.
Derby City Council will now conduct a review to determine who can remain on the electoral register, and may have to contact you for further information. This will by post or email, and you will receive the outcome of your review in writing.
The changes apply to local and mayoral elections in England from 7 May 2024. If you’re an EU citizen, you will now only be able to register, vote or stand as a candidate if you meet one of the following criteria:
- Citizens of Ireland, Cyprus and Malta living in the UK are unaffected by the changes and can vote and stand as candidates in all UK elections.
- Citizens of Denmark, Luxembourg, Poland, Portugal, and Spain living in the UK can still stand and vote in local elections but not UK Parliament elections.
- Citizens of EU countries who were legally resident in the UK on or before 31 December 2020 with permission to enter or stay in the UK, Channel Islands, or Isle of Man. This status must have continued without interruption.
Emily Feenan, Electoral Registration Officer for Derby City Council, said:
“This review is an important part of keeping our electoral register up to date following recent legislation changes.
“We understand that these changes may cause some concern, but we're here to support our residents through this process and ensure everyone who is eligible can exercise their right to vote."
For more detailed information about changes to EU citizen’s voting and candidacy rights please see the Electoral Commission website. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Elections Team at elections@derby.gov.uk.