Cat Smith responds to Government's May 2021 polls delivery plan

“It is vital these elections are delivered safely and securely but the Government have yet again been too slow and are now woefully unprepared.

“Cash-strapped councils have been left to deliver this election safely without the support they need. Councillors have expressed deep concerns about polling venues, with the Government ruling out the use of schools. Ministers are yet to respond to the challenge of recruiting polling and count staff, with so many workers needed as Covid marshals and for additional cleaning.

“The Government must take responsibility for supporting postal vote sign up with ring-fenced funding for councils.

“If campaigning is limited to paid-for delivery of leaflets, we risk allowing those with the most money to have the greatest influence. There must be a level-playing field for all candidates and campaigners.”