Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Voter Registration Closes Tonight for May 7 Elections

4/20/2026

35 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Voter registration for the May 7 elections in England, Scotland, and Wales closes tonight at 11:59 PM.
On April 19, a record 42,827 applications were submitted, signaling heightened interest.
The elections will fill 5,013 council seats in England and elect members to the Scottish Parliament and the Senedd.
The postal vote deadline is April 21 and proxy vote applications are due by April 28, with results beginning on May 8.

History

Historical Context

The Representation of the People Act 1918 marked a pivotal moment in UK electoral history, enfranchising 8.4 million women and 5.2 million men by abolishing property qualifications for male voters and allowing women over 30 to vote. This act tripled the electorate from 7.7 million in 1912 to 21.4 million by the end of 1918, laying the foundation for future electoral reforms.

1 of 2

Story summary

Voter registration for the May 7 elections in England, Scotland, and Wales closes tonight at 11:59 PM.
On April 19, a record 42,827 applications were submitted, signaling heightened interest.
The elections will fill 5,013 council seats in England and elect members to the Scottish Parliament and the Senedd.
The postal vote deadline is April 21 and proxy vote applications are due by April 28, with results beginning on May 8.

1 / 2