Recommendation 36

We are concerned that the number of print suppliers is decreasing, which increases the possibility that the printing of ballot packs could be a point of failure. Arrangements should be put in place to ensure that the printing of ballot packs is prioritised, for example by requiring priority clauses in the contracts and that a backup is in place so that delays of more than one day 69 cannot occur. Where delays do occur, a system should be put in place to notify the public. For example, a local authority could be required to notify the Electoral Commission, so they can provide a central point for people to find out about delays, and what options there are to ensure they can vote. (Conclusion, Paragraph 107)