Strategy and Policy Statement 2025-02-27

2025-02-27

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Response quality

Questions & Answers

Q1 Partial Answer
Joe Powell Lab
Kensington and Bayswater
Context
The Elections Act 2022 imposed a requirement for the Electoral Commission to publish a strategy and policy statement, which some argue undermines its independence. Joe Powell raises concerns about this issue.
What discussions he has had with the Electoral Commission on the arrangements for the publication of the first strategy and policy statement? The Elections Act 2022 passed by the previous Government imposed a strategy and policy statement on the Electoral Commission, undermining its independence for some confected agenda about voter fraud, and eroding trust and confidence in the commission. Does the right hon. and learned Gentleman agree that the best course of action would be not to publish a further strategy and policy statement until such a time as the legislation can be reviewed?
I can tell the hon. Gentleman that that is the commission’s view. He will know that the commission remains opposed to the principle of a strategy and policy statement, and views such a mechanism as inconsistent with its independent role.
Assessment & feedback
Specific agreement on not publishing further statements
Response accuracy
Q2 Partial Answer
Bob Blackman Con
Harrow East
Context
Only a small percentage of eligible British citizens overseas voted in the last general election. Bob Blackman asks about actions to increase voter turnout among this group.
It is estimated that only 3% of the 3.5 million British citizens abroad participated in the last general election. What action can the Electoral Commission and my right hon. and learned Friend take to ensure that people who are eligible to vote can do so in future general elections?
My hon. Friend is right that more can always be done to ensure that all those eligible for the franchise, which now includes a substantial number of overseas voters, understand what they are entitled to, and that we offer them all the assistance we can to participate in the process.
Assessment & feedback
Specific action plan or timeline
Response accuracy