RESIDENTS are being reminded to make sure they are on the electoral register ahead of the first national referendum in 30 years.

Voters will go to the polls to decide whether the system used to elect the Government should change.

But in order to vote, residents must be signed up on the electoral register, or have registered for a postal or proxy vote if they are going to be away on May 5.

Barnet Council's counting officer Nick Walkley said: "Now is the time to make sure you are registered to vote before the deadline on Thursday, April 14 and to apply for a postal or proxy vote."

People will be choosing between the current first past the post system, or the alternative vote (AV), which is used in the London Mayoral elections.

The question being asked on May 5 is: "At present, the UK uses the 'first past the post' system to elect MPs to the House of Commons. Should the 'alternative vote' system be used instead?"

Supporters of a voting change say it will make MPs more accountable as they need to secure more votes, while opponents say it will lead to more hung Parliaments and coalition Governments.

Currently, 94 per cent of household in the borough are registered to vote, and anyone who is not can call 020 8359 4111 for more details, or visit www.aboutmyvote.co.uk to print off the appropriate forms.