Local elections

Just a quick question if I may . . . do we HAVE to vote in the local elections please?

I am reluctant to vote for people I've never even heard of and know anything about.

Ta muchly.

Re: Local elections

No you are not obliged to actually vote in elections unlike the census, which was mandatory.

You do have to register to vote though, you could be fined for not doing so.

Re: Local elections

You certainly won't be alone.

RJG has answered but I'd just like to add that it not being mandatory is why turnout for local elections is often quite low.

General elections usually see a much higher turnout with an average of over 70% as opposed to local elections with an average turnout of well under 50% in recent years - 2017 for example saw just 35% bother to vote

Re: Local elections

Thanks very much RJG and Zaphod.

I wasn't sure whether it was compulsory or not.
As I said before, they are just names on a piece of paper to me, I have no idea who these local ones are.
Thanks again.

Re: Local elections

No election in the UK is compulsory. IMHO they ought to be.

Re: Local elections

I believe they are compulsory in Australia.

Re: Local elections

Ditto to that Percy !!

D man👍👍

Re: Local elections

They are all pretty useless Mups, so I wouldn't worry too much.

Re: Local elections

No, it is not compulsory.

However, I shall be voting because I think it important to show my feelings for what's on offer.

Specifically, if Reform UK stands locally I shall vote for them.
If not, I shall draw a line through all of the names on the form and write "NONE OF THE ABOVE" underneath.

I know my sentiments, as such, will not be counted but I believe that my paper will be counted in some way, probably as a 'spoilt paper'.

Re: Local elections

I will be voting so to help get the present Mayor of London OUT