Local elections
The basic laws of political physics
Dr Jonathan Carr-West says pressure provides a burning platform and the political vacuum an opportunity for action. But if the atmosphere remains toxic, we won’t be able to move forward at all
‘Enough is enough’
Chief executive of the Association of Electoral Administrators (AEA) Peter Stanyon says a root and branch review of election delivery must happen, with the concerns of those on the frontline heard and understood
Counting the costs of the 'break-neck speed' EU elections
Returning officer Ian Miller writes in a personal capacity about the lessons Government and the House of Commons must learn after two major elections within three weeks - and he backs the recent Localis call for five-year terms for councillors.
Impartiality has never been more important
Louise Round says that for many in districts over the coming years, the lines - red or otherwise - may not be drawn on a party-political basis.
Sufficient polling stations are essential to democracy
Allen Graham says he is continually impressed by how Rushcliffe BC's election staff respond to immense logistical and administrative pressures.
Counting the costs of the EU Exit process
When the dust settles on the UK's departure from the European Union there will surely be a formal public inquiry into how the government has handled the process, says Ian Miller
‘A bereavement – with no funeral’
Dame Jane Roberts says that while the abrupt end of a councillor’s role may be a significant loss, there are many ways to continue making a valuable contribution to society.
What should ex-councillors do next?
John Tizard says those staring into the future after losing their council seats should take time to ‘recover and reflect’, and there will always be ways they can use their ‘experience, knowledge, networks and political antennae’
Rise of independents suggests localism is on the move
Brexit, which has split the two main parties down the middle nationally, has clearly also extended its reach down to local level. If this breaks the national stranglehold over local elections this is a promising outcome, says Michael Burton.
Gateshead e-voting trial declared a success
The tradition of dozens of volunteers gathering in town halls and leisure centres to count ballots until the crack of dawn and beyond could soon become a thing of the past.
Voter ID plans will impact ‘millions on the margins’
Millions of people will be denied their right to vote if the Government presses ahead with its mandatory voter ID plans, according to a warning from campaigners.
The local is where the repairs begin
The things these elections should really be about – homes, schools, high streets, care and children’s services - are being fatally undermined by dysfunctional national politics, says Dr Jonathan Carr-West.
Devo choices should be open to all
If Scotland can choose to raise income tax and invest in public services, why can’t Manchester or the West Midlands, asks Heather Jameson - and if devolution gives choices to parts of the UK, why not all of the devolved bodies?
Voter ID plans slammed as 'undemocratic'
Mandatory voter ID requirements will seriously damage democracy, the Electoral Reform Society has warned again ahead of the local elections this week.
Candidates – don’t forget the local
Voters in local elections are seeking tangible action on the ground, argues Bob Neill, and local candidates recognising this reality will be rewarded for it at the ballot box
Minister defends voter ID trials amid 'scaremongering'
Concerns over voter ID trials have been dismissed as ‘scaremongering’ and ‘conspiracy theorising’ by a minister.
Labour to tighten control over Enfield group
The Labour Party will tighten its control over the local Enfield group following a months-long investigation into internal party processes.
Start the democratic therapy process
Local elections will be taking place against a Brexit backdrop - but Dr Jonathan Carr-West argues the problems created by democracy can only be solved by more democracy.
Government defends voter ID legal challenge
A legal challenge to the Government’s voter ID trial has been rejected.
Certainty in the middle of so much uncertainty
Selby DC is going into its election period in the context of an unprecedented level and variety of uncertainties, says Janet Waggott. But she believes this creates certainty about what local government needs to do despite the challenges.