Electoral watchdog calls for urgent action to prevent abuse and intimidation of candidates

Four in 10 candidates at the May 2022 elections reported experiencing problems with intimidation, the Electoral Commission has said.

The number was broadly similar across England (40%), Scotland (44%) and Wales (40%). In Northern Ireland the proportion of candidates who reported experiences of intimidation was even higher (71%).

Most abuse was verbal or experienced online and from members of the public or anonymous sources.

The Electoral Commission called for ‘urgent action’ to prevent abuse and intimidation of candidates at elections.

It said it would work with the UK’s governments and the wider electoral community to make sure they can understand what is driving this trend.

The watchdog's 'May 2022 local elections in England' report notes that while “robust debate is an essential feature of election campaigns”, this must not lead to intimidation that discourages candidates from standing for election or campaigning.

Campaigners meanwhile reported that they felt able to communicate effectively with voters, however the reports also reflect the challenges faced by campaigners as well as by those running elections.

Many election teams reported struggling to recruit staff and find suitable polling station and count venues.

Craig Westwood, the Electoral Commission’s Director of Communications, Policy and Research said: “Urgent action is needed to prevent the abuse and intimidation of candidates and campaigners at elections. It is vital that candidates can participate in elections without fear.

“The Elections Act, passed earlier this year, introduces a new electoral sanction for those found guilty of intimidating candidates, campaigners, and elected representatives. Banning someone from standing for elected office, as well as imposing criminal sanctions, such as a prison sentence or fine, will strengthen the deterrent against this intimidating behaviour.

“The Act also introduces changes to voting and elections. The UK Government intends for some of these measures, including voter ID for certain elections in Great Britain, to be in place for the first time at the May 2023 local elections in England."

He added: “There have been significant delays in the development of the law that sets out the detail of these new requirements. We are concerned about the impact these delays could have on the effective implementation of the changes. The UK Government should make sure that policies are introduced with proper funding and enough time for voters and election teams to prepare.”

Lottie Winson