On Thursday 4th June electors will be able to vote for people to represent them on the European Parliament.
The European Parliament represents residents of European Union’s 27 member countries. It has powers in many areas including animal rights, consumer rights, the environment, international trade, regional economic development and workers’ rights.
There are 12 European Electoral regions in the UK. Each region is served by between three and ten MEP’s. Southend is in the Eastern Region, and has seven MEP’s. At this forthcoming election, all seven seats are up for election.
Most electors will vote at their nearest polling station open from 7am -10pm on Thursday 4th June. If you have never voted in person before then you may find it helpful to visit the electoral Commissions polling station walk through at www.aboutmyvote.co.uk
The last day to register as an elector in order to take part in this election is Tuesday 19th May. Any EU members must also complete a UC1 form. If this form is not completed by 19th May you will have to cast your vote in your home country – you will not be able to vote from the UK.
The last day to apply or make amendments or cancel a postal vote is also Tuesday 19th May.
If you have applied for a postal vote, you should receive your postal ballot paper pack around Tuesday 26th May. Please read the instructions carefully when completing the statement included with your ballot paper.
You can arrange for someone (a proxy) to vote on your behalf if you are incapacitated or unable to attend a polling station in person. The last day for registering as a proxy voter or cancelling a proxy arrangement is 27th May (unless in the case of a medical emergency).
All eligible electors will receive a poll card before the election informing them where their polling station is, and how to cast their vote. Registered postal voters will receive a postal poll card.
In the case of a proxy vote, the proxy will receive the poll card.
The count takes place on Sunday 7th June.
Southend-on-Sea Borough Council’s Executive Councillor for Corporate Support Services, Councillor Andrew Moring says: “Elections are an essential part of the democratic process. I urge all those eligible to vote, to do their very best to do so.”
For further information on postal or proxy voting please contact Louisa Robinson on 01702 215117.
