Statement on the Public Administration and Public Affairs Committee 21 April 2022 letter to the Secretary of State about the Elections Bill
Statement on the Public Administration and Public Affairs Committee 21 April 2022 letter to the Secretary of State about the Elections Bill
The PACAC call for an urgent consolidation and simplification of electoral law is one we wholeheartedly support.
We have long advocated for a single Electoral Administration Act to replace the current jumble of primary legislation underlying UK elections.
Reform is needed to increase capacity and resilience, and help our electoral system evolve to meet electors’ needs and expectations. Today’s elections need 21st rather than 19th Century legislation.
Elections Bill proposals means a single Act is needed now more than ever. The Bill looks to introduce a raft of changes our current electoral foundations will struggle to support.
We are still concerned about the UK Government’s timetable to implement Voter ID and more from the Bill. The magnitude of proposed changes must not be underestimated, and implementation cannot be rushed. We agree with PACAC that Parliament should review the Bill’s impact.
Finally, we restate our continued and firm support for the ongoing independence of the Electoral Commission.It is essential the Commission can take a non-partisan approach to the democratic process, particularly in the guidance and assistance it provides to our members, electors, candidates and political parties.