Overview

• The bill, announced on July 17, would lower the voting age to 16 in all UK elections, aligning Westminster contests with Scottish and Welsh devolved polls.
• It proposes automatic voter registration using existing government data to streamline enrolment ahead of the next general election.
• Acceptable voter ID would expand to include UK-issued bank cards and digital forms of driving licences and Veteran Cards to reduce barriers at polling stations.
• New donation rules would require checks on contributions over £500 from unincorporated associations, close shell-company loopholes and empower the Electoral Commission to impose fines up to £500,000.
• Subject to parliamentary approval, the legislation is expected to pass under the government’s majority, with detailed regulations to be finalised before the 2029 election.