Source · Select Committees · Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee
Recommendation 36
36
Deferred
Prioritise ballot pack printing with backup arrangements and public notification system for delays
Conclusion
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)
Government Response Summary
The government notes the recommendation for a resilience plan for supplier failure but states that ensuring supply contracts and contingencies is a matter for statutorily independent Returning Officers. It also mentions future legislative changes will support electors and administrators, including the ability to use different voting mechanisms if issues arise.
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government
Deferred
We note the Committee’s recommendation for a resilience plan in case of supplier failure. Elections are delivered on a local level, and it is for statutorily independent Returning Officers to ensure they have necessary supply contracts and contingencies in place. However, as set out in our Strategy for Elections, we intend to bring forward changes to legislation which will support both electors and administrators in the postal voting process, including the ability to use different voting mechanisms should issues arise. These changes will aid in ensuring the robustness of the postal voting system.