• Turnout inequality in UK elections

Question 1

What is the current concern regarding turnout in UK elections?

Answer 1

UK elections face legitimacy concerns due to low turnout, especially among renters, non-graduates, and young voters.

Question 2

What are the turnout gaps observed in the 2024 UK election?

Answer 2

Significant gaps include:
- Renters vs. Homeowners: 19 percentage points.
- Graduates vs. Non-Graduates: 11 percentage points (double since 2019).
- 18-24s vs. Over-60s: 21 percentage points.

Question 3

What challenges does Labour face in the upcoming elections?

Answer 3

Labour is focused on winning over non-graduate voters and countering the rise of Reform UK, which performed well in former industrial areas.

Question 4

What reforms does the IPPR recommend to improve voter turnout?

Answer 4

Proposed reforms include:
- Lowering the voting age to 16.
- Automatic voter registration.
- Capping political donations at £100,000 annually.
- Creating an ‘election day service’ (poll staffing akin to jury duty).

Question 5

What additional suggestions were made to enhance voter participation?

Answer 5

Additional suggestions include:
- Make polling day a holiday or move it to a weekend.
- Scrap voter ID requirements.
- Enfranchise long-term, tax-paying non-citizens.
- Redraw constituencies based on total adult population.

Question 6

What measures are suggested to strengthen electoral integrity?

Answer 6

Strengthen Electoral Commission powers, including higher fines and tighter rules on foreign-linked donations.

Question 7

What concerns have been raised regarding Elon Musk’s influence on UK elections?

Answer 7

Concerns raised over potential large donations to Reform UK via his UK business arm.