18 June 2024 , 06:52
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Over 2million people have registered to vote since Rishi Sunak called the General Election, figures show.
It comes as campaigners target a last-minute surge in applications before the registration deadline at 11.59pm tonight.
Atotal of 2,152,086 applications were made from May 23 to June 17, Government figures show. This includes 330,621 submitted on June 13 - the highest for a single day so far this year. In the last 24 hours alone, over 170,000 people have made applications. Over 100,000 of them were under the age of 34.
Before the election was called experts estimated that as many as eight million people were not correctly registered at their current address. A Commons committee also highlighted that young people, renters, ethnic minorities, and people from poorer backgrounds are significantly less likely to be registered to vote.
Director of Communications at the Electoral Commission Craig Westwood said: “Anyone that wants to have their say at the ballot box must be registered to vote before the deadline of midnight on Tuesday. Registering online is quick and simple so don’t put it off any longer.
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“Our research shows that some groups of people are less likely to be registered, including young people, private renters and those who have recently moved house. If you know anyone who hasn’t yet registered, let them know that time is running out ahead of this general election.”
All voters intending to cast a ballot in the General Election on July 4 will also need to show a form of photo identification at the polling station.
Not all types of photo ID will be accepted, but a passport, driving licence or blue badge are valid.
Those without an acceptable form of ID can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate by 5pm on June 26.
The controversial new rules have previously led to thousands of people being turned away from the ballot at the local elections in England. The Daily Mirror launched our Get ID, Get a Vote campaign ahead of the local elections last year to raise awareness of the new rules and make sure everyone's voice is heard.