During Committee Stage of the Representation of the People Bill 2026, amendments reflecting BOVF's proposals were tabled by Martin Wrigley MP and debated.
The amendments covered the three measures set out in our January 2026 report:
- downloadable ballot papers, removing the outbound postal journey;
- ballot return through British embassies and consulates, using the diplomatic bag;
- linking electoral registration to passport renewal, so that the three-year lapse in overseas registration is caught automatically.
The government voted down a proposed study of the options. The Bill continues its passage through Parliament.
How we read the result
This is a setback on the specific vote and a substantial step forward on the underlying question.
Two years ago these proposals were not being discussed in Parliament at all. They have now been drafted as amendments, tabled, and argued in Committee, with the government obliged to respond on the record. The 52% postal return figure has been put to ministers directly. That is a different position from where we started.
We are grateful to Martin Wrigley MP for tabling the amendments, and to the members from more than one party who took part in the debate. BOVF does not endorse parties or candidates, and we have made these arguments to every party that would meet us. We will continue to do so as the Bill proceeds.
What supporters can do
The most useful single action remains the least dramatic one: be registered, and make sure the people you know are registered. The argument for reforming how overseas citizens vote is considerably stronger when the number of overseas citizens voting is going up.
If you are not sure of your status, our Registration Concierge will walk you through it in a few minutes.
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