Guide to Proxy Voting for Armed Forces Members in Wales

Understanding the Official Proxy Voting Application Form for Armed Forces Members in Wales

This official form, issued by the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government, is designed specifically for members of the armed forces and their spouses or civil partners who wish to vote by proxy in Welsh elections. Proxy voting allows individuals unable to attend polling stations in person to appoint someone they trust to cast their vote on their behalf. This guide provides an overview of the form's purpose, eligibility criteria, application process, and important points to consider.

Who Should Use This Form?

This form is intended for registered voters in Wales who are members of the armed forces or their spouses/civil partners. It is applicable exclusively to elections in Wales, including:

• Senedd (Welsh Parliament) elections
• Local council elections

To qualify, applicants must be registered to vote or have applied for registration. Both the applicant and their proxy must be eligible voters, and the proxy must be registered to vote as well.

When and Why to Use the Proxy Voting Form?

The form is used to apply for a proxy vote when the voter cannot attend the polling station in person on election day. Typical reasons include deployment abroad, illness, or other commitments preventing physical presence at the polling station. Proxy voting ensures that members of the armed forces and their families can participate in democratic processes despite their circumstances.

Eligibility and Rules for Proxy Voting

Who Can Be a Proxy?

The eligibility of a proxy depends on the type of election:

• For Senedd and local council elections: A proxy can vote for up to three close relatives or two other individuals. Close relatives include spouses, civil partners, parents, grandparents, siblings, children, and grandchildren.
• For UK Parliament and Police & Crime Commissioner elections: A proxy can vote for up to four individuals, with no more than two being domestic electors (voters who are not overseas or service voters).

Additional Requirements

Both the applicant and proxy must be registered voters. The proxy must be willing and capable of voting on the applicant's behalf, and the applicant must specify how they want their proxy to vote, such as preferences for candidates or parties.

How to Complete and Submit the Form

Filling Out the Application

The applicant must complete all relevant sections of the form, including:

• Personal details: surname, full first names, address, date of birth, and contact information (phone and email, optional).
• Election types: selecting whether the proxy vote applies to Senedd/local elections, UK Parliament elections, or both.
• Proxy details: full name and address of the person appointed as proxy.

It is crucial to write clearly in black ink and use capital letters. The form must be signed and dated by the applicant to prevent fraud. If the applicant cannot sign, they should contact their local electoral registration office for assistance.

Submission Deadlines

Applications for a new proxy vote must be submitted to the local electoral registration office by 5pm, six working days before the election. If modifying or cancelling an existing proxy or postal vote, the deadline is 5pm, eleven working days prior to polling day.

Applicants not yet registered to vote must register at least 12 working days before the election, which can be done online at gov.uk/register-to-vote.

What Happens After Submission?

Once the electoral registration office receives the application, they will confirm whether it has been accepted or rejected. If approved, the proxy will receive a poll card detailing where and when to vote on behalf of the applicant. The applicant should communicate their voting preferences to the proxy beforehand.

The proxy must attend the polling station to cast the vote unless they have applied for a postal vote on behalf of the applicant. The proxy can request a postal vote up to 11 working days before the election.

Data Privacy and Security

The information provided on the form is protected under data protection laws, including the Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR. The Electoral Registration Officer acts as the Data Controller, responsible for securely processing personal data collected through the application. Applicants are encouraged to review the privacy notice available on the electoral registration office’s website for further details.

Summary

This official proxy voting application form offers a vital mechanism for members of the armed forces and their families to participate in Welsh elections despite being unable to vote in person. Accurate completion, timely submission, and understanding of the rules surrounding proxy voting are essential to ensure your vote is successfully cast through your chosen proxy.