Commons Sense

House of Commons · General Debate

Electoral Commission Committee

15 June 2023 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Christine Jardine Lib Dem Edinburgh West

Democracy & Elections

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Christine Jardine raised concerns about electoral commission committee in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

Key points

  • Concerns were raised about the lack of an equality impact assessment for the Elections Bill
  • Anecdotal evidence suggests that half of those turned away at polling stations were non-white
  • Questions were asked about discussions between the Speaker's Committee and the Government regarding the assessment

How the debate unfolded

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

Opened the debate

Christine Jardine Lib Dem Edinburgh West

Asks whether the Speaker's Committee on the Electoral Commission has had discussions with the Government and the Electoral Commission regarding the equality impact assessment of the Elections Bill. Raises concerns about disproportionate consequences for ethnic minority populations due to a lack of an impact assessment, citing anecdotal evidence from Democracy Volunteers indicating that half of those turned away at polling stations were non-white.

Other contributors (1)
  • Cat Smith Lab Lancaster and Wyre

    Responds by stating the Committee has not had recent discussions on this subject. Indicates that the Electoral Commission will publish a report shortly, including data from returning officers and public polling to capture those who did not reach the polling station. Encourages Christine Jardine to raise the issue of equality impact assessments during questions to the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities.

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