23.This section repeals the provisions in section 12(3) and (4) of the Representation of the People Act 1983 which provide that those with a service qualification can only register by means of a service declaration. Those with service qualifications will still be entitled to register by means of a service declaration but this section will mean that they have the additional option of registering in the same way as other voters (provided that they meet the residence criteria set out in section 3) or as overseas electors.
Commentary on Sections Section 7: Service Declarations