Report by:
Karen M Donnelly, Chief Solicitor & Monitoring Officer
Tuesday, 27 February, 2024
Subject:
Election Act 2022: Changes to Westminster Parliamentary Elections
Responsible Officer:
Karen M Donnelly, Chief Solicitor & Monitoring Officer
Publication:
This Technical Note will be published on the Council’s website following circulation to Members. Its contents may be disclosed or shared outwith the Council.
Details:
- The purpose of this Technical Note is update Members regarding a forth coming briefing session on the changes implemented by the Elections Act 2022.
- Members will be aware that the UK Government (UKG) requires to hold a General Election no later than 28th January 2025, and this would require to be called (and Parliament dissolved) by 17th December 2024. Notwithstanding, most commentators expect the election to take place no later than Autumn, however it could be called at any point this year.
- The Elections Act 2022 has introduced several significant changes to the way in which Westminster elections are administered and in relation to voter participation e. in relation to voter ID and the way in which postal votes are handled.
- In administering elections, the Council has a responsibility to encourage as wide a participation as possible by encouraging voter registration etc. In relation to the forthcoming Westminster elections this will include raising awareness of the requirements around voter ID and changes to postal votes.
- The Election Team, working with colleagues in other services, is developing a multi-channel awareness raising plan. This includes a briefing for Members on Friday 8th March 2024. The briefing will include the introduction of voter ID, changes to Postal Votes and the steps being taken to raise awareness.