Commons Sense

House of Commons · Bill Debate

The Elections (Family Voting) Bill - Third Reading

24 March 2023 · 9 other contributors

Opened by Paul Bristow Con Peterborough

Democracy & Elections

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Paul Bristow raised concerns about the elections (family voting) bill - third reading in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

Key points

  • The Bill aims to clarify powers for presiding officers at polling stations to prevent family voting.
  • The Bill cites a report indicating family voting occurred in up to 48% of observed polling stations.
  • The cited report notes that family voting disproportionately affects women.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Paul Bristow Con Peterborough

I move the Bill to address family voting, which undermines the secrecy of ballots. The Bill aims to clarify powers for presiding officers at polling stations to prevent family voting and influence on voters inside booths. It cites a Democracy Volunteers report showing family voting occurred in up to 48% of observed polling stations, affecting women disproportionately. The Bill ensures clarity so that those requiring assistance can still receive it while preventing coercive practices.

Other contributors (9)
  • Bob Blackman Con Harrow East

    Supports the Bill to safeguard free and fair voting. Acknowledges that family voting can force people to vote against their will, especially in diverse communities with various electoral systems like London's local elections alongside general elections. Stresses the importance of ensuring postal votes are not used to coerce individuals.

  • Scott Benton Con High Peak

    Argues that secret voting is fundamental for democracy and highlights cases of electoral fraud, including in Tower Hamlets and Calderdale. Emphasises the importance of strengthening guidance to prevent family voting, particularly its impact on women from Asian communities.

  • Selaine Saxby Con North Devon

    Welcomes the Bill as vital for protecting secret ballots and preventing undue influence. Supports exceptions for children to teach them about democracy but underlines the importance of maintaining a strong democratic process.

  • Kieran Mullan Con Bexhill and Battle

    Highlights the historical significance of secret ballots in protecting voters from harassment and bribery. Acknowledges the widespread nature of family voting issues as observed by Democracy Volunteers, supporting exceptions for those needing physical assistance.

  • Louie French Con Old Bexley and Sidcup

    Supports the Bill due to its protection of the secret ballot principle, addressing family voting that undermines democracy. Highlights the importance of preventing voter intimidation and providing clear guidance for polling station officers.

  • Peter Gibson Con Darlington

    Commends the Bill for its role in strengthening election laws, ensuring ballot secrecy, and tackling concerns about family voting. Emphasises that voters should not need assistance unless due to disability or inability to read/write.

  • Alex Norris Lab Co-op Nottingham North

    Supports the Bill for its clarity and provisions against voter intimidation. Acknowledges the importance of clear guidance for voters and polling station staff, while advocating for further improvements in assistive technologies to enable independent voting.

  • Peter Gibson Con Darlington

    Intervened to congratulate Jim Shannon on his birthday.

  • Paul Bristow Con Peterborough

    Expressed gratitude towards Lord Hayward, councillors Sandy Tanner and Peter Golds, the Minister, DLUHC Ministers, shadow Front-Bench team, Opposition supporters, Bill Committee members, Clerks, officials, and Comptroller of His Majesty’s Household. He highlighted that this is a rare occasion where a private Member's Bill initiated in the Lords has progressed to law.

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