"Homeless people should be supported to vote" say Liberal Democrats.

5.17.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Fri 7th Aug 2009

Councillor Stephanie Eaton, leader of the Liberal Democrats in Tower Hamlets today described as "a great shame" the low level of voter registration among homeless people in Tower Hamlets. Figures revealed to Councillor Eaton show that only 5 people identified as homeless in the borough are registered to vote.

Councillor Eaton commented "Local charities tell me that there are hundreds of homeless people in Tower Hamlets yet only 5 are registered to vote. Recently when I spoke with some homeless people in the Borough they were very keen to have their voice heard and participate in our democracy. Homeless people are able to vote and our electoral services section will help them to do so. People can register to vote where they spend most of their time, even if that is on a street, in a park, or an office. We need to make sure that the right information gets to people so that they can register."

For advice and support in registering to vote, contact the electoral services section of the Council on www.towerhamlets.gov.uk and search for "electoral register" or call 020 7364 0872.