Expats in the Channel Islands could be eligible to vote in the UK

Previously, people who left the UK more than 15 years ago lost their right to vote

People in the Channel Islands who previously lived in the UK could be eligible to vote in UK general elections.

A new law has been introduced where two million more British citizens living overseas will be able to register for a vote in general elections.

Previously, people who left the UK more than 15 years ago lost their right to vote.

That rule has now been abolished under the Election Act 2022.

Once on the electoral register, residents from Guernsey and Jersey would be able to donate to political parties and campaigners.

The constituency expats are eligible to vote in, will be determined by where they used to live in the UK.

Robert McDowall, a member of the Channel Island Conservatives Abroad said: "It can be significant because when there was an impact analysis done of this legislation, it was estimated that 10% of expats would register to vote.

He added: "There was some hypothetical analysis after the last general election and if these votes had been in place then, it could've made the difference of 14 or 15 seats believe it or not."

States of Jersey said it was unable to comment on this matter.

The government has estimated that the number of expats worldwide able to register after the rule change will increase from around 1m, to 3.2m-3.3m.