Don’t lose your voice for the general election

THAT’S the message from South Oxfordshire District Council as it gets preparations underway.

Although a General Election has not yet been called, one has to take place by June 3, 2010, next year so the council wansts to make sure that all eligible residents can have their say on polling day.

It has sent forms to every household in the district to compile a new electoral register that will be the basis for the General Election.

TEXT OR PHONE

Registration is quick and easy. If people?s details are the same as the previous year?s they can let the council know online, by text or by free phone, so there?s no need to post a paper version. If there are changes, however, the form needs to be altered and posted back.

EVERYONE NEEDS TO RE-REGISTER

A common misconception is that if you notified us last year you don?t need to this year. Unfortunately the information cannot be used again, so households need to let the council know each year even if their details haven?t changed. Contrary to popular belief, people are also not automatically registered even if they pay council tax. Registering is particularly important for anyone who has recently moved home.

David Buckle, Returning Officer for South Oxfordshire District Council, says: “Voting is the only way residents can choose the people making decisions that affect their everyday lives, but they can only do this if they?re registered. Registration is happening now and is very simple.”

CREDIT RATINGS

“A General Election must take place by 3 June 2010, so by registering to vote people are securing their voice in deciding who will represent them in Westminster and ultimately how the country will be run in the future. Another really important reason to register to vote, particularly in this current economic climate, is it can affect people?s credit ratings.

“Latest figures show that about 14,500 households still have not returned their forms. Registering in the next few weeks will save the council about