Voting and elections

The electoral register

What are the full and edited registers?

The full register lists the name and address of everyone who is registered to vote. It is used for law enforcement and by credit reference agencies, but only to check your name and address if you are applying for credit and other purposes specified in the law.

The edited register is available for general sale and can be used for any purpose and be bought by anyone – including for marketing purposes. You can opt out of appearing on the edited register when completing your registration form.

Viewing the register

You can inspect the full electoral register at any time at Central Library or by appointment at the Cunard Building. Call 0151 233 4176 to book an appointment.

  • Inspection of the register will be under supervision.
  • You can take extracts from the register, but only by handwritten notes.
  • Information taken must not be used for direct marketing purposes, in accordance with the Data Protection Act, unless it has been published in the edited version.

Anyone who fails to observe these conditions is committing a criminal offence and will be charged a penalty of up to £5,000.