Proxy Vote service — cookies
Cookies are files saved on your device when you visit a website.
We use them to store information about how you use the GOV.UK website, such as which pages you visit.
Google Analytics cookies
We use Google Analytics to measure how you use the service, so we can improve it based on user needs. Google stores anonymised information about:
- how you got to the service
- the service pages you visit, and how long you spend on each
- what you click on while you use the service
| Name | Purpose | Expiry |
|---|---|---|
| _ga | A randomly generated reference identifies unique users, referring sites, visitor and session counts | 2 years |
| _gat | Google uses these to manage tracking site interaction rates (during high traffic) | 1 minute |
| _gid | These count how many people visit this service, tracking if you have visited before | 24 hours |
Google cannot use or share our analytics data with anyone, but you can still opt out of their cookies.
Session cookies
We store session cookies to remember application progress.
| Name | Purpose | Expiry |
|---|---|---|
| application | Stores encrypted session data | After 8 hours of inactivity, or when you close your browser |
Cookies message
You may see a banner at the service beginning, asking you to accept cookies or review your settings. We store your response so your computer does not re-show the warning.
| Name | Purpose | Expiry |
|---|---|---|
| cookie_preferences_set | Stores that you have seen the cookie message | 1 year |
| allow_analytics_cookies | Stores if you consent to analytics cookies | 1 year |
Change your settings
You can change cookies settings at any time.