Votes for Life – Improving Representation for Brits Abroad

Votes for Life – Improving Representation for Brits Abroad

Aug 3, 2025 | News, Votes for Life

Update 03 August 2025
Proxy Vote

Improving registration for overseas voters

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) is developing a new service to enable Britons voting in UK elections from abroad to renew their voter registration digitally.

To ensure user satisfaction, and identify any possible improvements to the system, a trial has been conducted across a number of constituencies, with over 1000 responses. To date, over 90% of those taking part have expressed their satisfaction, and an independent auditor has rated the service of ‘high standard’ for use by those with disabilities.

This new service will be available to overseas voters in 2026.

 

Update 19 Feb 2025
Proxy Vote

CAMPAIGN FOR OVERSEAS CONSTITUENCIES

In conjunction with New Europeans, Unlock Democracy and other campaign groups – and following the return of our democratic voting rights – Bremain is campaigning for dedicated MPs to represent Britons living abroad.

On January 15 2025, our chair Sue Wilson attended the Citizens’ Rights APPG in Westminster to discuss the Overseas Constituencies campaign with parliamentarians. Since then a parliamentary briefing has been sent out to all MPs and peers outlining the rationale for Overseas Constituencies.

We would like to acknowledge the role of the Bremain Lobby Team in extensively lobbying parliament in this regard. Thank you!

 

The rationale for dedicated MPs for Brits abroad

  • UK based constituency MPs understand little of the issues faced by Britons living abroad, and quite naturally focus their attention on local constituency matters
  • Britons abroad are more likely to be engaged with national UK matters than with constituency-specific issues
  • Dedicated representation by MPs who understand the issues would ensure the voices of overseas voters would be heard
  • Better representation would likely result in increased numbers of Britons abroad registering to vote in the UK
  • At least 17 countries – including EU countries such as France, Italy, Croatia, Romania and Portugal – already have fully functioning overseas constituencies
Update 23 May 2024
Proxy Vote

The Prime Minister has announced a General Election scheduled for Thursday 4 July, just 6 weeks away.

If you have yet to register to vote, you will need to act quickly, as the deadline for the receipt of registration applications is Tuesday 18 June – 12 working days before the poll. As applications in some constituencies are taking up to 4 weeks, please act now to avoid disappointment.

You can Register to Vote online – the process is simple & straightforward & should only take 5 minutes.

We strongly recommend using a proxy if you are unable to vote in person. Applications for a proxy vote close on Wednesday 26 June (6 working days before the poll). You can apply online or by post but you must be registered to vote before starting the process.

For further details re the requirements for registration & proxy voting, please read on.

We’ve waited long enough for the return of our democratic voting rights, so act now & make your vote count!

Update 24 March 2024
Proxy Vote

Voting by Proxy

Now our voting rights have been restored, it’s time to consider how to cast your vote as a British citizen abroad.

If you are unable to vote in person in the UK, then we strongly recommend voting by proxy as postal voting has proved very unreliable in the past & your vote may not arrive in time to be counted.

 

How to apply & what you need

Once you have registered to vote, there are 2 ways to apply for a proxy – online or by post.

Before you start the process, you will need your:

  1. N.I. number or other ID, e.g. birth certificate
  2. Details of your Proxy: name, address, contact details
  3. Digital signature (a photo)

The government have produced as Easy Read Guide that explains the process in more detail.

 

Who can act as your proxy?

You need to appoint someone you trust to act as your proxy who is:

  1. 18 years or over
  2. Registered & eligible to vote

Further information is available from the Electoral Commission: How to vote by proxy

If you are unable to find a friend or family member to act as your proxy, you can approach your local political party. They have a vested interest in finding someone to act on your behalf.

Important note: If you applied for a proxy vote before 31 October 2023, this expired on 31 January 2024 so you need to apply for a new one.

Tens of thousands of Brits abroad have already registered to vote, according to the government’s Register to Vote Dashboard.

If you are not one of them then please read on for all the relevant information on how & where to register. Please don’t wait until an election is announced as the registration process alone is taking up to 4 weeks in some constituencies.

 

Update 11 January 2024

Since Bremain in Spain’s inception, regaining our right to vote in UK elections has always been a high priority. After years of campaigning, the 15-year rule has now been overturned and our right to vote in UK elections has been re-established, regardless of where we live

Effective from 16 January 2024, you will now be able to register to vote in UK elections, regardless of how long you have lived abroad. British citizens, eligible Irish citizens and citizens of Crown Dependencies can register as overseas voters as long as they:

  • were previously registered to vote in the UK or
  • were previously resident in the UK

Get ready to register

Before starting the process of registration, you will need to have access to proof of your ID and your former UK address.

To prove your ID you will need to provide your National Insurance (NI) number and your date of birth. If you have a British passport (current or expired), you will need to scan it for ID purposes. If you have lost your NI number, you can search for it here

To prove your address you will need to provide documentation containing your full name and address details. Acceptable documentation includes:

  • a UK driving licence (current or expired)
  • correspondence from HMRC or the Dept. for Work and Pensions
  • council tax statement/demand
  • credit card statement
  • utility or mobile phone bill
  • letter from an insurance company
  • P45 or P60 form or payslip
  • bank/building society passbook
  • local authority rent book

 

In the event that you are unable to provide satisfactory evidence of your ID and former UK address, you will have the option of providing an attestation. You will need to ask someone (not a close family member) to attest to the details you provide. Your attestor must be over 18 and registered to vote in the UK, but they do not need to be a UK resident.

 

How to register

You can register to vote from overseas online on the government website here

When applying to register, use the last address where you were registered as a UK resident. If previously registered to vote at more than one UK address, use the most recent address at which you were registered.

Any eligible voters that previously resided in the UK, even as children, but have never been registered to vote, can apply using their last UK address.

Details provided will be verified by local authorities who are responsible for the electoral role in their area.

Once registered to vote, you will need to renew your registration every three years (previously annually), before 1 November.

An easy read guide on the registration process is available here

 

Feedback

We would be very interested to hear about your experiences in registering to vote using the government website. The process will be straightforward for some and more complex for others, but it is important that we understand how it works for you, and any issues that need resolving. Any feedback, good or bad, of your experiences of the registration process can be emailed to us at: enquiries@bremaininspain.com. We will be sure to feed back any issues to the DLUHC and the Electoral Commission in order to improve the process.

 

With a general election looming over the horizon, please do not wait to get yourself on the electoral register. The return of our democratic voting rights has been a long, hard-fought campaign, and the UK has never needed a new government more than it does right now. So, exercise your democratic rights and register to vote now!

 

Useful links

Electoral Commission: Overseas Voters- Resources for British Citizens Overseas

Electoral Commission: FAQs

British Embassy – Living in Spain – Voting

LibDems Abroad: Brits Abroad and Brits Abroad Q&A

British in Europe: Get ready to vote – your FAQs

 

Update 14 December 2023

The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) has now confirmed the date from which the voting franchise will be extended to all overseas voters.

The “15 year-rule” will effectively be removed – for those previously registered to vote, or previously resident in the UK – as of 16 January 2024, from 12.30 a.m. – via the Register to Vote website.

In the meantime, we recommend that those who are currently disenfranchised from voting start collecting their proof of ID (NI numbers, passports etc) and proof of their last UK address/electoral registration and scan them ready for upload to the government website. 

Further detailed instructions on the process, and the acceptable documentation, will be available here nearer the time.

Update 31 October 2023

New arrangements for voting by post and by proxy come into immediate effect as of today. Those already registered to vote in UK elections can now apply online to vote either by post or by proxy.

Once your form has been downloaded and completed, it is then sent off to the Electoral Registration office for England, Scotland or Wales or for Northern Ireland 

If you are living in the UK, you can download the application forms here

For those living abroad, apply online here

If you have not exceeded 15 years abroad, then you can also use the above link to register/re-register to vote. Those that have exceeded the 15 year period should be able to register to vote in January 2024 when the secondary legislation is finalised.

Update 26 October 2023

Progress has now been made regarding the secondary legislation required to further the restoration of our overseas voting rights.

On 23 October, the government published the Statutory Instrument on overseas voting regulations. These now require the approval of parliament before being signed into law, and will be considered by both House of Commons and House of Lords committees. The process usually takes no more than 8 weeks, so is expected to be finalised by early January 2024.

The next step will then be registration for disenfranchised overseas voters, likely to start before the end of January, as scheduled.

Update 9 October 2023

Following our latest discussion with the Head of Secondary Legislation, Registration & Franchise Division, at the Department for Levelling Up Housing and Communities, we are pleased to be able to confirm the following:

  • The department is still on track to progress the necessary secondary legislation this Autumn
  • The legislation will be laid & debated with the intention that the necessary changes to overseas voting rights come into force in January
  • Voters who are currently eligible can continue to register as usual, and from January onwards
  • Newly eligible voters – that were previously denied a vote under the 15-year rule – will be able to apply to register from January onwards
Update 21 June 2023

Votes for Life – Overseas Electorate Roundtable

On 21 June 2023, Bremain Chair, Sue Wilson, attended a meeting with Baroness Scott of Bybrook, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC). The online meeting was also attended by officials of the DLUHC Elections Directorate, who Sue had met with earlier this year.

Speaking on behalf of the disenfranchised overseas electorate were representatives from a variety of campaign organisations, including Conservatives Abroad, LibDems Abroad, Labour International and British in Europe.

Secondary legislation

Before parliament can approve the new legislation, there will be a consultation with the Electoral Commission, who will provide further scrutiny of the plans and processes. The expectation remains that the secondary legislation will come into force in January 2024, enabling the registration process to begin.

Registration process

Changes are being made to:

  • ID verification process
  • Franchise criteria
  • Application forms

Each change is aimed at making the process easier and quicker for existing and new overseas voters, and to maintaining the integrity of the electoral process. These changes will apply to all UK parliamentary elections, including any bi-elections.

Renewals & Absentees

When re-registering to vote (every 3 years in future, rather than every year as at present), the process will allow for concurrent re-registration for proxy or postal voting. A reminder will be issued in advance to those already on the electoral register, and a new “light-touch” renewal declaration will speed up the process.

A new process for postal/proxy voting applications will be available online. For postal voting, pre-paid “international business response” envelopes will be supplied by Royal Mail – these envelopes are suitable for all international use and widely recognised abroad.

Following the meeting, Sue said, “it was reassuring to learn that the plans outlined to me in March are progressing well, and the previously quoted timescales still stand. It was a pleasure to meet Baroness Scott and her team who are clearly dedicated, well informed, and efficient. It is clear that all concerns raised by Bremain, and other campaign groups, have been listened to and acted upon. Restoration of our democratic votes rights is now well under way.”

A further roundtable meeting will be held in the Autumn.

For further information, read the earlier updates or visit the government website: Overseas electors: Delivering ‘votes for life’ for British expatriates

 

 

 

 

Update 23 March 2023

On 23 March 2023, Bremain Chair Sue Wilson attended a meeting at the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) to discuss the restoration of full democratic voting rights to Britons living abroad.

The meeting was with officials from Elections Directorate at the DLUHC in Westminster.

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the next steps, the process and to establish the timescale. This is what we learned ……….

Secondary legislation

In order to restore full voting rights following the passing of the Elections Act by Parliament, secondary legislation will be necessary.

This will take place in the Autumn session of parliament 2023 with the intention of delivering ‘votes for life’ ahead of the next General Election. The secondary legislation to deliver the overseas electors change is expected to be made and come into force in January 2024.

Improvements to the registration process

To facilitate voting arrangements, the process of registration will be made simpler, and the frequency of re-registration will be extended from 1 year to (up to) 3 years. An online registration service will be complemented by the introduction of an online absent vote (postal or proxy) application process.

As soon as the changes come into force, newly enfranchised electors will be able to apply to register to vote. We will then be encouraging our members to act quickly, rather than wait until an election is announced.

The franchise of eligible voters will be extended to include all of the following British citizens, regardless of how long they have been living abroad:

  • those previously registered to vote in the UK
  • those previously resident in the UK

In addition, those that left the UK before they were old enough to register to vote will no longer have to rely on the registration status of their parents/guardians.

 

The verification process

The process will require the verification of both personal identity and a previous UK address.

Regarding identity verification, this could be established, as now, via a check of applicants’ details (including NI number) against DWP records, or if that is not possible, via documentary evidence, such as a UK passport. Failing that, an attestation (a declaration that certain facts are true) from a suitably qualified elector (not a close family member) would be acceptable.

Re address verification, if it is not possible for an Electoral Registration Officer (ERO) to verify an address by a register check, other options will be available, such as documentary evidence from a bank, building society, utility company, tax office or a variety of other organisations. A full list is available online (see below). Failing that, an attestation – as with ID verification – would be acceptable.

Following the meeting, Sue said, “I came away from the meeting impressed with the level of detail provided, the comprehensive nature of the planning and preparation, and the understanding of the issues we face as overseas voters. I was impressed with the knowledge and abilities of the people I met and with their willingness to engage with us and to listen to our concerns. Now, bring on the next election, but not before next spring, please!”

For further information, go to the government website: Overseas electors: Delivering ‘votes for life’ for British expatriates

 

Update 28 April 2022

The Elections Act has received Royal Assent and has now become law. It will allow British citizens abroad to vote in UK elections, by removing the 15-year limit. It will also extend the annual re-registration requirements to just once every three years.

In response to an enquiry regarding overseas voters’ measures in the Elections Act, the Electoral Commission said, “The Government has not yet made the legislation necessary to bring these changes into force, and we do not expect them to come into force before summer 2023. More detail on the implementation of these measures is expected to come from the government in the coming months.”

You can read the Government’s announcement re the passing of the Elections Act here

You can read an article written by Bremain Chair, Sue Wilson, on the passing of the Elections Act here

Update 01 Oct 2021

Our campaign for the restoration of our voting rights, and the scrapping of the arbitrary 15-year rule, moved a little closer to fruition this month. The controversial Elections Bill, which includes the government’s manifesto promise to restore our voting privileges, has made some progress through parliament. On 7 September, the bill passed the Second Reading in the House of Commons.  

On 22 September, the Committee stage began, and is scheduled to continue on 19 October. You can watch the latest proceedings on Parliament TV here. 

In tandem with the passage of the bill through the Commons, the Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee (PACAC) started its Elections Bill Inquiry. Many campaign groups submitted evidence to the committee, Bremain included. 

We asked our members why their vote was important to them and used many of your testimonies in our report. Many thanks to all those that contributed. You can read about our presentation of evidence to the committee here, in an article by our Chair, Sue Wilson.  To read our evidence report in full, click here 

Update 28 July 2021

The date for the second reading of the Elections Bill has been announced as 7 September, at 12.40 BST.

The second reading is the first opportunity for MPs to debate the general principles of the Bill. At the end of the debate, MPs will vote on whether they think the Bill should proceed to the next stage – the Committee Stage.

You can follow the progress of the Bill here

You can watch the debate live on Parliament TV, or watch a recording after the event here

Update 27 July 2021

On 26 July, the Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee (PACAC) announced a new enquiry into the controversial Elections Bill.

The bill includes government plans to introduce voter ID at polling stations, the aim being to “protect the integrity of elections”. However, many campaigners have argued that election fraud is extremely rare, and the bill is a solution to a problem that does not exist.

Committee Chair William Wragg said:

 

“These proposals make significant changes to the implementation of and potentially participation in elections. It’s natural that they are properly interrogated and claims by the Government that the plans would protect our democracy are tested before implementation. Although few would argue against shoring-up our electoral system in principle, it’s critical to ensure that it is done correctly, that it is fair, and that it is necessary to do so.”

Of course, the bill also includes the long-awaited restoration of democratic voting rights for Britons living abroad, affected by the arbitrary 15-year rule. We are encouraging our members to write to their MPs with their views on the Elections Bill – good and bad – and we will be presenting evidence to the committee in due course.

You can read more about the proposed enquiry here

You can read more about PACAC here

If you wish to submit evidence to the committee, you can do so here. The deadline is 31 August 2021.

Update 21 July 2021

Veteran campaigner, Harry Shindler OBE, has been fighting for the restoration of our democratic voting rights for 25 years. 
On 17th July 2021, he celebrated his 100th birthday. Bremain could not let this occasion pass un-noticed, so we asked our members and other campaign groups to join us in sharing our good wishes.

Bremain members contributed to our birthday book. You can view the book & read our members’ comments here

Campaign groups across the UK & the EU contributed to our dedicated video, which you can view here

We wish Harry a very happy birthday, & many more to come.

Update 07 July 2021
On 5 July 2021, the government bill set to restore our democratic voting rights was finally brought before parliament. A government press release stated that the new legislation was designed “to strengthen the integrity of UK elections and protect our democracy”, and included this aim:

“To increase participation in our democracy, the Bill will deliver the longstanding commitment to remove the arbitrary 15 year limit on overseas electors voting in UK Parliamentary general elections.”

The Elections Bill is proving controversial, though not because of the scrapping of the 15-year voting rule. The cause for concern is the planned introduction of voter ID, which threatens to disenfranchise many further voters, and is regarded by many as undemocratic and unnecessary.

Bremain will be following the passage of the new bill with great interest, and will provide regular updates.

More information on the Elections Bill is available on the official government website here.

You can also access updates on the Parliament website here, including the latest government publications and details of the bill’s progress. The government describe the bill thus:

 

“A Bill to make provision about the administration and conduct of elections, including provision designed to strengthen the integrity of the electoral process; about overseas electors; about voting and candidacy rights of EU citizens; about the designation of a strategy and policy statement for the Electoral Commission; about the membership of the Speaker’s Committee; about the Electoral Commission’s functions in relation to criminal proceedings; about financial information to be provided by a political party on applying for registration; for preventing a person being registered as a political party and being a recognised non-party campaigner at the same time; about regulation of expenditure for political purposes; about disqualification of offenders for holding elective offices; about information to be included in electronic campaigning material; and for connected purposes.”
For further information:

Read the Elections Bill in full here 

Read the Explanatory Notes here 

Read the Elections Bill Impact Assessment here

Update 27 May 2021

The government officially announced today that British citizens who have moved abroad will be given ‘votes for life’ as the UK Government scraps the arbitrary 15-year limit on the voting rights. All British citizens who are living overseas who have been previously registered or previously resident in the UK will be able to vote in UK Parliamentary General Elections. In addition, the new rules will mean overseas electors can stay registered for longer requiring them to renew their registration details once every three years, rather than annually.

Overseas electors will also be able to reapply for a postal vote or refresh their proxy vote at the same time as renewing their voter registration, streamlining the process and helping to ensure they have appropriate voting arrangements in place ahead of an election. These changes, which will form part of the Elections Bill will come into effect in time for the next scheduled General Election in 2024.

Update 12 May 2021

Since the 2010 General Election and each subsequent election, the Conservative party have pledged to repeal the fifteen year rule and provision was made in this year’s Budget in March.

In yesterday’s Queen’s Speech, as part of the Electoral Integrity Bill, the commitment to remove the fifteen year rule was announced.

Update 4 March 2021

After months of inactivity, it seems the British government’s manifesto commitment – to scrap the 15-year rule – is finally taking a step forward.

The Electoral Integrity Bill – which includes the restoration of the democratic voting rights of millions of Brits abroad – will form part of this spring’s Queen’s Speech.

There was further good news in the Budget yesterday. If you look closely at the small print on page 48, you will find reference to additional funds set aside expressly for the purpose of securing our #VotesForLife 

2.41 Overseas Electors – The government is providing an additional £2.5 million to remove
the limit preventing British citizens who live overseas from voting after 15 years.

You can read an article by Sue Wilson about the bill in the Yorkshire Bylines here

Democracy on the Brink in Georgia

Democracy on the Brink in Georgia

Jul 31, 2025 | Bylines, News

“Democracy can collapse faster than we think”: urgent warnings from Georgia spotlight rising authoritarian threats across Europe and the West, writes Bremain Treasurer Helen Johnston for Yorkshire Bylines. 

On 8 July, Grassroots for Europe hosted a Round Table webinar on the state of government and democracy in the USA and Europe. One of the key speakers was the former British ambassador to Georgia, Alexandra Hall Hall, who drew parallels between events there and in America, pointing out that democratic collapse can happen faster than we think.

First-hand testimony from Georgia

A last-minute guest speaker at the webinar was Georgian politician Dr Grigol Gegelia. Elected in the recent elections as a member of the Lelo Strong Georgia coalition, he is boycotting Parliament with the rest of the opposition in protest against the authoritarian, Russian-backed Georgian Dream government.

His description of the rapidly deteriorating situation there, including, shockingly, the detention of a fellow party worker minutes earlier, could not have been timelier for illustrating Alex’s warnings about the danger to democracy in America and Europe.

Georgians have been protesting for over 200 days now, with protesters subject to arrest, beatings, torture, imprisonment and heavy fines. In December 2024, Saba Buadze, who was also elected under the Lelo Strong Georgia banner, told me he believed Georgian Dream is capable of anything, and the use of repressive methods will increase: “We are at the stage of autocracy, and we are going downhill now.” Dr Gegelia’s words bear this prediction out only too grimly.

Targeting opposition parties

In January, the government set up a temporary commission to investigate alleged crimes committed by the UNM government that came into power following the 2003 Rose Revolution. Opposition politicians  – regardless of their connections to this period – are being summoned to appear and risk imprisonment if they refuse. Key opposition leaders in Georgia have been jailed, sentenced to seven or eight months in prison and banned from holding office. According to Amnesty International, the commission has been instrumentalised to target former public officials for their principled opposition: “It has become a tool of political repression, not of parliamentary scrutiny, used to lock away political opponents ahead of local elections.”

Dr Gegelia explained that although the “temporary investigative commission was ostensibly set up to probe into alleged crimes committed by the UNM government in 2003–2012, it is basically a device to put the entire opposition on trial and then jail them for refusing to attend, because they knew that none of us would ever do so. If I’m summoned to attend, I will not do so, so I will also be fined or imprisoned for up to a year”.

Just before the webinar began, one of Dr Gegelia’s colleagues was stopped for a drug search and detained. The government denies that drug checks are being used to target protesters and political opponents, but, as Dr Gegelia said, “there were no plausible reasons to expect any such arrest”, and a number of those detained were activists or members of opposition parties.

Sliding towards dictatorship in Georgia

Dr Gegelia believes that Georgia could soon tip over into a complete, full-blown dictatorship. “They’re arresting activists and now introducing additional laws designed to curb all forms of political protest”, such as the Foreign Agents Registration Act. Ordinary protesters are deterred by extortionate fines – amounting to four to five months of the average Georgian salary – with provisions allowing for arrest if the fines go unpaid.

“They’re trying to deploy the entire machinery of law against their own citizens, against all forms of dissent, to silence all of us and those of us that will not be silenced, especially those working on international lobbying.”

When Dr Gegelia and colleagues from three other parties visited the Baltic states in January, the prime minister accused them of engaging in acts of sabotage: “He effectively gave a green light for prosecution services and others to potentially try us for crimes carrying sentences of seven to 15 years.”

Controversial local elections

Local elections are due to be held in Georgia in October. Some opposition parties have chosen to boycott them, while others, including Dr Gegelia’s Lelo party, have decided to stand. He argues that “we should use every platform possible, even where you don’t believe you can win. We do not believe that will serve to legitimise the regime, because we plan, while participating in those elections, to also call on all our friends and partners throughout the world to continue to speak out, act, sanction the regime’s people, isolate them as much as possible”.

He also acknowledges that other opposition groups have criticised his party for its stance (indeed, there is also internal dissent: Saba Buadze has resigned his post in disagreement, although he remains a party member). Dr Gegelia similarly recognises that the elections will not be free or fair, but “our purpose is to open up a new battlefront, to give people another dynamic, another possibility to engage, to fight and reclaim whatever we can”

Sanctions and international pressure

Dr Gegelia appealed for democracy activists to put pressure on Western governments to impose stricter sanctions. It seems Georgian Dream had hoped to draw on a “striking alignment” of values and ideology with the Trump administration. However, the US ambassador recently described the Georgian Prime Minister’s open letter to Trump and JD Vance as “threatening, insulting, unserious”. Legislation currently under consideration in the US Congress would authorise sanctions to counter the influence of Russia, China, and Iran in Georgia. The Georgian government regards the legislation as biased and hostile.

Nevertheless, Dr Gegelia believes the government currently fears the UK more than the US. Apart from possible channels for joint action with Europe, the UK could also act independently. Britain has already warned businesses in Georgia that they would face sanctions if they assist Russia in evading existing measures. On 4 July, Stephen Doughty, the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, noted that: “the UK’s support for the Georgian people’s Euro-Atlantic aspirations remains steadfast, and we stand ready to assist in any return to a trajectory towards European values and democratic norms”.

On 14 July, the UK government stepped up the pressure on Georgia in a video address delivered by British ambassador Gareth Ward, stating that: “The UK Foreign Secretary and other European partners have called on the Georgian government to release unjustly detained politicians, journalists and activists, repeal repressive legislation and engage in national dialogue with all relevant stakeholders to find a way out of the current situation”.

On 21 July, Doughty confirmed that the UK has downgraded bilateral cooperation and is considering further measures, urging Georgian Dream “to reverse course and engage in inclusive national dialogue with all stakeholders in Georgia’s future”. Georgian prime minister Irakli Kobakhidze lashed out with a Trumpesque response, saying, “This is a statement saturated with disinformation…there are serious problems in Great Britain in terms of media pluralism, in terms of media freedom, in terms of the influence of the ‘Deep State’ on the media”.

The EU increases the heat

Since Dr Gegelia spoke to us, the EU has also turned up the heat on the Georgian regime. In July, MEPs voted to endorse a report which “deplores the backsliding of the rule of law as well as the growing Russian influence on the ruling party, Georgian Dream”, followed by a joint letter issued by European Foreign Ministers expressing deep concern over the “deteriorating situation in Georgia”.

The EU high representative for foreign affairs, Kaja Kallas, responded to an open letter from Georgia’s former president, Salome Zurabishvili, saying that the attack on democracy by Georgian Dream is becoming increasingly severe and Georgia’s visa-free regime with the EU is at risk over concerns about democratic ‘backsliding’.

Georgia’s ruling party’s response mirrors that of the UK, describing the joint letter as “saturated with Soviet-style disinformation and false accusations”. Prime Minister Kobakhidze once again defended the foreign agents law, claiming it was necessary to defend Georgian “peace and stability” against foreign influence.

Individual EU member states are also increasing diplomatic pressure, with messages in recent days from the Dutch minister of foreign affairs and the French ambassador to Georgia, Sheraz Gasri. On 15 July, Giorgi Gakharia, the leader of the For Georgia party, met with Poland’s foreign minister, appealing for “unified and coordinated actions by the European Union, the United Kingdom, and the United States in supporting the Georgian people”.

This appeal is reflected in Dr Gegelia’s closing words to the Round Table audience: “In summary, we need action, and we need sanctions: sanctions do work. The regime is scared of sanctions, especially UK sanctions, because many of them are obviously hoping to find a safe haven for themselves and their money in the UK. Like the Russian oligarchs, they’ve bought properties, and they’ve tried to find some quiet spots to keep their money. So, they’re very scared of any threat to that. That is my message to all of you, as friends of democracy in Georgia and worldwide.”

 

Bremainers Ask ……. Ben Chambers

Bremainers Ask ……. Ben Chambers

Jul 31, 2025 | Bremainers Ask, News

Ben Chambers is a musician, arranger and producer and is the voice behind the popular Pro-EU Radio Show and Podcast ‘SMR’ (Single Minded Rejoiners ).

Susan Scarrott : You’ve had some amazing special guests on SMR over the years. Is there anyone you are still longing to interview?

Hey, Susan – great question and one which I often end up asking myself! You’re right, some truly exceptional people have agreed to let me quiz them: Sir Tony Robinson, Ken Loach, Anna Soubry among others – but there are still so many people I’d love to talk to.

The list changes regularly, often according to news events and who I feel might have something worthwhile to say about them, but my Top 5 right now would be as follows:

Actor Eddie Marsan, who always speaks so thoughtfully on topics such as diversity, background and immigration; Armando Iannucci (the writer, director and satirist); former Liverpool Manager Jurgen Klopp about how to maintain principles in the face of vehement opposition; ‘Dragon’s Den’ legend Deborah Meaden, because I just love everything about her, and Ursula von der Leyen – I’d ask her all about the prospect of a fast track back! And right now, she’s the one to ask!

 

Steven Wilson : What, if anything, do you think Keir Starmer has done well, and what have been his worst mistakes?

I totally get why you’re asking that one, Steven! Disappointment runs deep with Labour right now, but perhaps my hopes were too high, eh? I think it’s important to remember, the contrast between the organized crime syndicate of the Tories and what we have now can’t be overstated – the vast majority of the Labour front bench and certainly their MPs are decent, principled people who care… and that’s a great starting point really, isn’t it?

But you’re right (I’m guessing from the “if anything” that you’re not exactly impressed!) Labour appears to have forgotten its root and branch principles and the reason it was elected, not to mention those in the Cabinet who previously held such passionate views on Brexit and Europe suddenly having so little to say (David Lammy? Whatever happened to him?). But aside from his refusal to fess up and face the Brexit music by reversing it pronto, Starmer’s obvious missteps thus far have to be the Winter Fuel Debacle, the optics over Benefit Reform and his obvious kowtowing to the multimillionaire press barons who “allowed him” to win the election!

But there is hope! Votes for 16- and 17-year-olds is a manifesto commitment I applaud heartily, provided (as I mentioned on last week’s show) substantial education reform takes place to prepare our young people for their new responsibility!

 

Lisa Burton : Which politician do you admire the most and which do you loathe the most?

Seriously, Lisa? You want me to whittle that list down to just one of each? Near impossible! But since it’s you – I’ll do my best…

But before I do, some honourable mentions: Anna Soubry (despite her Tory “ethics” on a number of issues) always impressed me with her straight talking, no nonsense approach to Brexit and still does to this day – but she’s no longer an MP, so I guess she doesn’t count!

I have tremendous respect for a number of former Tories who stuck to their guns over Brexit and were ejected from the party by Johnson in 2019, but again – they’re no longer serving.

So, right now, I’d have to say Lib Dem, Daisy Cooper. In my view, she’s a model MP. She publishes weekly a diary of how she’s spent each day, is principled, clear and able to take on anyone in a debate since she’s prepared to actually do her homework and know her stuff! Few others come anywhere near, but I also like Zack Polanski right now too!

As for the worst? Do you REALLY have to ask? It would have been a toss-up between Lee “30p” Anderson and some still serving vile Tory detritus like Robert Jenrick – but now the Nicotine-Stained Man Frog and Bollock Brained Foghorn of Ignorance has finally slithered into the Commons – there’s simply no competition!

I hate very few people. He’s one of them.

David Eldridge : Why do you think Farage’s Reform UK is so popular at the moment? Do you think they can keep it up till the next election?

Do you want me to be honest, David? I’m guessing you do…

Well, it’s no mystery really. Farage is adept at getting the hard of thinking onto the same page and dancing to his tune. In fact, he’s bloody good at it and right now, no-one does it better!

Promise big (forget about workable policy!), tell them EXACTLY what they want to hear and then bugger off down the pub to laugh at how stupid they all are with his multi-millionaire mates!

By tapping into what he knows are easily exploitable fissures in the public’s deep-rooted nationalistic tendencies, he expertly manipulates first the facts (into downright lies!) and then his base into fearing, then hating minority groups who pose them no threat whatsoever.

This both distracts from the REAL enemy (billionaires!) and helps cement his “cult of the ill-informed” (idiots?) who will follow him anywhere but off the cliff…

…which is a crying shame, isn’t it?

As for their chances in 2029? Who’s to tell? But Femi is right to take the threat seriously, as should we all – everything we can do to debunk his lies is 100% worthwhile! More power to the wonderful army of TikTok rebels who do it daily!

 

Valerie Chaplin : After one year in office, what advice would you give the Prime Minister?

Crikey, I’d love a chance to sit down with him, armed with a laptop and all the footage of him demonstrating his former principles! I’d make him squirm… or maybe I wouldn’t!

In his defence, I think being in Government means compromise to some extent and there will be things he has discovered that he genuinely didn’t know when in opposition. Plus, it’s easy to over-promise in an election campaign, they all do!

What’s harder to defend is his apparent void of understanding over how much damage Brexit is doing to the country, our reputation, trade, the economy, families – you name it!

I’d remind him that, when he took office, he promised to put “country before party” – what happened to that one? Rejoining the EU would fix 80% of our woes in one fell swoop and most of the population supports it – so what’s the REAL issue here?

I’d ask him to consult more widely before taking whatever daft advice his inner circle dream up! And I’d ask him to check his conscience before recycling the kind of rhetoric that came out of his mouth re: “island of strangers!”

Seriously, did no-one even think to check that?

Helen Johnston : As a long-standing campaigner what, if anything, do you think the anti-Brexit campaign could have done differently and what else can we do now?

Aha! The Billion Dollar Question, Helen!

Well, as we all acknowledge, the Remain Campaign was fatally flawed in that its leader was an arrogant Tory Prime Minister who assumed he had the charisma to knock Farage and Johnson into second place. Whoever made him think that?

And, as we also now accept, this was a campaign that lacked a positive case for the EU, assumed everyone knew all about it anyway and only ever reacted to the lies from Vote Leave, rather than setting the agenda themselves. What a mess!

Then there was People’s Vote, with their lukewarm, overly cautious approach which, although it managed to get boots on the street, failed to change a thing and then publicly combusted on social media!

We were a “gift” to the other side, really!

What we need to focus on far more now, in my view, is building positive arguments, linking our exit from the EU to the lack of cash in everyone’s back pockets and explaining how easy rejoining the Single Market and Customs Union would make everything for small and medium sized businesses trading with the continent.

We need to maintain our presence on the public stage (National Rejoin March have that covered, God Bless ‘em!) and work TOGETHER rather than seeing this as a multitude of smaller battles organizations and individuals can fight alone!

They can try, but alone they’ll achieve far, far less than alongside each other!

Next Month : Zoe Gardner

Zoe Gardner is an independent researcher, campaigner and commentator on immigration and asylum policy in the UK and Europe. She regularly contributes to political and media debates and appeared recently on BBC Newsnight. She has worked for the European Network on Statelessness, the Joint Council for the Welfare of Immigrants, Asylum Aid, the Race Equality Foundation and the European Council on Refugees and Exiles.

If you would like to submit a question/s for Zoe, please email us no later than Thursday 7 August.

Crackdown on Palestine protesters sparks outrage across UK

Crackdown on Palestine protesters sparks outrage across UK

Jul 23, 2025 | Bylines, News

Protesters face arrest for wearing pro-Palestine badges as UK cracks down on dissent amid growing global outcry over Israel’s actions in Gaza, writes Bremain Chair Sue Wilson MBE for Yorkshire  Bylines.

Ever since the start of Israel’s war on Gaza, protesters have been willing to stand up and be counted, to call out Israel’s actions for what they are – genocide – “a crime committed with the intent to destroy a national, ethnic, racial or religious group, in whole or in part” (UN definition). That task has recently become even more problematic, bringing with it the prospect of police arrest for peacefully speaking the truth. Or just for turning up and sporting a badge.

Multiple protests, multiple arrests

Over the weekend, protesters took to the streets across the country – in Edinburgh, Truro, Manchester, Bristol and London – in support of the Palestinian people. More than 100 non-violent protesters were arrested, some carried away by police officers while others were led away in handcuffs. Those arrested included an 81-year-old former magistrate and a woman in her 80s who was seen walking with a stick.

The protesters could receive up to a six-month sentence simply for wearing a badge or T-shirt, or be charged with a criminal offence punishable by up to 14 years in prison, for supporting the work of Palestine Action.

It's utterly mad.
These people are the opposite of terrorists.
THEY WANT PEACE.
The police know they're not terrorists.
The government knows they're not terrorists.
Yet, on the Home Secretary's orders, they're being arrested under the Terrorism Act.
www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2025…

[image or embed]

— George Monbiot (@georgemonbiot.bsky.social) 20 July 2025 at 07:27

Government overreaction

Founded in 2020, Palestine Action is a British pro-Palestinian protest network with the stated goal of ending Israeli apartheid. It describes its actions as “non-violent yet disruptive”. Following damage to two aircraft at RAF Brize Norton two weeks ago, the government proscribed Palestine Action as a “terrorist group” under the UK’s Terrorism Act 2000. As a direct result, any protester can now be arrested for being a member of the group or for showing support – even if that support is nothing more than wearing a T-shirt or badge or displaying a placard.

A request from Palestine Action’s barrister to temporarily block the government ban was refused after a High Court judge ruled the claim was “insufficient to outweigh the strong public interest in maintaining the order in force”. A further legal challenge took place on Monday 21 July when co-founder of Palestine Action, Huda Ammori, sought permission for a full judicial review of the proscription. Her barrister, Raza Husain KC, said the home secretary’s decision to proscribe the group was “repugnant” and an “authoritarian and blatant abuse of power”. A decision is expected on 30 July

People are protesting, governments remain largely inactive

While the public may be protesting against Israel’s treatment of the people of Gaza, the world’s governments have been slow to speak out or to act. There seems to have been considerable reluctance to call out the genocide – even when the evidence has seemed overwhelming – and even more reluctance to impose sanctions on Israel. But hopefully, that may be about to change.

Many countries are now raising their voices and increasing their condemnation, as demonstrated at a recent 30-nation meeting in Columbia. A number of countries from the global south have agreed on measures they say will “restrain Israel’s assault on the Occupied Palestinian Territories”. The measures include blocking the supply of arms and a ban on ships transporting weapons.

Closer to home, yesterday the UK joined 25 international partners in issuing a statement, calling for the war in Gaza to end now. The words used in this declaration are the strongest issued so far by the UK. The statement condemned the “inhumane killing of civilians, including children, seeking to meet their most basic needs of food and water” and called on “all parties to protect civilians and uphold the obligations of international humanitarian law”. It concluded: “We are prepared to take further action to support an immediate ceasefire and a political pathway to security and peace for Israelis, Palestinians and the entire region.”

Two-tier policing or governing?

However, the arrests at pro-Palestinian protests, especially when compared to police actions against far-right protesters in Essex, have again raised questions about the prospect of two-tier policing. While over 100 have been arrested for protesting peacefully, displaying banners and wearing T-shirts, violent clashes outside a hotel for asylum seekers resulted in just six arrests. That’s despite eight officers being injured, objects being thrown and police property being damaged. Thankfully, there have been no reports of anyone breaking into the hotel, though two security staff were assaulted.

The crimes committed in Essex will likely amount to little more than criminal damage or public order offences. That is not in the same league as terrorism, but perhaps in both cases the police could be forgiven for simply applying the law of the land.

What is different is the character of the law in the two cases. The law that bans protest in support of Palestine Action was brought in hastily and seemingly without proper thought for the consequences. This law, and its consequences, are entirely the fault of the Home Office, and worthy of the government’s authoritarian predecessors. It must be reversed, for the sake of British democracy and the right to peaceful protest, before it’s too late.

 

Bremainers Ask …… Zack Polanski

Bremainers Ask …… Zack Polanski

Jun 30, 2025 | Bremainers Ask, News

Zack Polanski is Deputy Leader of the Green Party and a member of the London Assembly. Before politics, Zack was a former theatre actor and worked on Erasmus with young activists from all over Europe. Zack is currently running to be the next leader of the Green Party.

Ruth Woodhouse : Could you explain your suggestion that the UK should leave NATO?

There’s important nuance here – and it was completely missed in the headline!

Donald Trump has talked about annexing Greenland – one of our allies. That confirms how unpredictable, unstable and dangerous he is. Rather than relying on a nuclear alliance dominated by the US (and a President who says that he “admires Putin”), we should be building alternative international partnerships based on diplomacy, peace, and cooperation – especially with our European neighbours and the global south. That’s what global leadership should look like.

 

Peter Corr : In 2023 at National Rejoin March you spoke strongly in favour of Rejoining the EU. Will you firmly make that Green Party policy if you become party leader?

Green Party policy isn’t decided by the leader – it’s decided democratically by our members at our national conference. We’re a one member, one vote party.

But my personal view is clear: no version of Brexit could ever be better than remaining in the EU. And yes – I’ve always supported rejoining – as does the party!

 

Helen Johnston : Would the Green Party support joining forces with European Movement UK to campaign on environmental issues?

We already do! In fact, Caroline Lucas is President of the European Movement.

 

Michael Soffe : Do you have a vision of how you should strengthen your relationship with other green parties that have representation in the European Parliament?

Yes – and I’m going to Brussels tomorrow (at time of writing!) for an annual meeting with Green Party leaders from across Europe. I’ve attended many times before and will continue to build those links – even though a lot of the conversation understandably still centres on the European Parliament. I find it most helpful that the challenges facing our colleagues across the continent often have very obvious parallels to challenges we face in the UK too. And often we even have solutions!

David Eldridge : Would you favour an electoral pact between the Greens and Lib Dems? 

No. The Green Party received nearly 2 million votes in our best election ever. We’ve shown that even under First Past the Post, when we focus our efforts, we win.

I’m elected under Proportional Representation in London, so I work across party lines every day – but that’s different from electoral pacts. Cooperation with other politicians is essential but voters deserve a clear Green choice on the ballot.

We offer a unique platform: environmental, social, racial, and economic justice – and I’m confident many more people will choose that at the next election.

 

Steve Wilson : How would you tackle the issue of the mainstream media giving so much airtime to Reform UK and so little to the Greens, despite the comparable number of MPs?

I’ve been working with the Media Reform Coalition – and gave the keynote speech at their event last month. Our media system is broken. We urgently need more transparency, regulation, and accountability.

That said – since announcing my leadership bid, we’ve seen a major spike in Green Party media coverage. I’ve done a huge number of broadcast interviews, and you can find many of them here.

When we speak clearly about what we stand for – and against – we cut through. I plan to do a lot more of that!

 

Lisa Burton : What would you say were the benefits of Starmer’s ‘reset’ deal and where does it fall short?

Honestly, I don’t think it was much of a deal. It was encouraging to hear some recognition that we need a better relationship with Europe – but he missed the most obvious next step. Rejoining the customs union would be a straightforward, sensible move that would immediately benefit us all.

Of course, the long-term goal should be to rejoin the EU.

 

Valerie Chaplin : Can the two-party system ever be overcome without PR, and what would you regard as a reasonable timescale for fighting the battle for electoral reform?

Absolutely. The two-party system wasn’t always the status quo – and it doesn’t have to be the future either.

The Green Party has made net gains in local elections every year for the last eight years. We’ve shown we can win – and as Labour loses trust and credibility, a hung parliament is entirely possible at the next general election.

If we do find ourselves with influence, Proportional Representation will be central to our demands. It’s not just about fairness – it’s about making politics work better for everyone.

Next month

Ben Chambers is a musician, arranger and producer who is the voice behind the popular Pro-EU Radio Show and Podcast ‘SMR’ (Single Minded Rejoiners). If you would like to submit a question for Ben, please email us no later than Wednesday 9 July.