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The Elections (Family Voting) Bill - Third Reading
24 March 2023
Lead MP
Paul Bristow
Debate Type
Bill Debate
Tags
No tags
Other Contributors: 9
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.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
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.
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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