Source · Select Committees · Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee
Recommendation 32
32
Rejected
Replace two-batch postal ballot dispatch with rolling system and widely publish dates
Conclusion
Currently postal ballot packs are dispatched in two batches. This should be replaced with a system where, following the first dispatch, ballot packs are printed and dispatched on a rolling basis. The first and last dispatch dates should be widely published and voters should be notified when applying. (Recommendation, Paragraph 104)
Government Response Summary
The government rejects the recommendation for printing and dispatching ballot packs on a rolling basis, stating it is impractical with current system capabilities.
Government Response
Rejected
HM Government
Rejected
This Government is committed to strengthening the postal and proxy voting system. Changes outlined in our Strategy for Elections will improve resilience and capacity, including adjustments to application deadlines, allowing earlier replacement of lost/ spoilt postal votes, and offering more flexibility to change voting methods. Regarding printing ballot packs on a rolling basis, this is impractical with current system capabilities. The recommendation for next-day delivery for poll cards is not viable due to an estimated £52 million additional cost. Measures for reissuing postal ballot packs and allowing electors to change voting methods are being developed, and handing in postal votes at council premises up to election day is already permitted. The Government works closely with Royal Mail on election preparedness, and both the Electoral Commission and this Committee have concluded Royal Mail performed well, indicating no need for further regulatory intervention regarding delivery standards. The Government is exploring flexible voting options, including pilot projects at local elections in May 2026 and 2027, but these will not include online voting or electronic machines. We have no plans to remove poll cards, as they are a vital communication tool.