Since 2004, registration authorities are required to publish two versions of the Electoral Register – the 'full' register and the 'edited' register. The 'full register' lists everyone who is entitled to vote and can only be used for an electoral or other statutory purpose.

The 'edited register' contains the names and addresses of persons whose details can be used for a purpose other than an electoral or other statutory purpose, for example, for direct marketing use by a commercial or other organisation. To opt-out of the ‘edited register’ you need to contact your local authority.