Title

Local authority election officers are on standby to deal with a snap general election this autumn. Speculation remains rife over whether PM Gordon Brown will call an autumn general election, but issues surrounding postal votes, the capacity of printing companies, and the preparation of the electoral register could cause problems for councils. The electoral register is not due for publication until December. Chair of the SOLACE elections panel, David Monks, revealed that an autumn election running off the old register would possibly result in some voters missing out on a vote. He confirmed work was under way to prepare for either a spring or autumn election, but warned problems with postal voting must be rectified before the next election. ‘During the local elections in May, all councils had problems with postal voting, and some were major,' he said. ‘The Association of Electoral Administrators said problems with postal votes led to the worst-ever election. A lot of people were not confident the software would be ready for an autumn election. ‘We also have doubts about the printing capacity of print companies.' With compilation of the electoral register halfway through, the AEA also voiced concerns over printing capacities. ‘If a general election happens in the autumn, will print companies be able to respond and get out ballot packs and the associated leaflets, together with the electoral registration forms?' Paul Morris, chairman of the AEA, asked. ‘We have been looking at comments in the press and preparing for an autumn election, but nothing has been confirmed to us,' he added. The prime minister has this week shelved plans for overhauling the voting system over fears proportional representation could cause political instability and confusion.

Title

WHITEHALL

Officers on standby for 'snap' election

SUBSCRIBE TO CONTINUE READING