There's also some truth in the idea that not voting is a vote for the extremes. Those who support extremist causes are pretty much certain to vote. By failing to vote, even if it is a protest vote or a vote without thought, you are increasing the power of every other voter in the country. If all those without strong views didn't vote, then the election would be deciding between the BNP and the Green party.

Obviously that would be pretty extreme, but the principal is the same nonetheless.

To answer the question, I will be voting for the first time this election, which will be my second opportunity. I reckon a 50% record isn't so bad