Securing ballot papers during breaks in proceedings
Where there is a break in proceedings, you will need to seal ballot papers in ballot boxes or another suitable container and store them securely during the break.
On completion of the verification, you must place the verified ballot papers into ballot boxes which are then sealed until the commencement of the count on Saturday 4 May. You must allow any agents present to attach their seals.1
In order to ensure the security of the ballot papers you could consider:
storing them in sealed ballot boxes in a locked room, ensuring that you have control of all the keys to that facility
arranging for security staff to guard the ballot boxes at all times until the verification/count resumes
You should liaise with your police SPOC when deciding on the most appropriate method for ensuring secure storage.
Once the verification/count has resumed, you should open the sealed ballot boxes in clear view of any candidates and agents present, so they can satisfy themselves that nobody has interfered with the ballot boxes or ballot papers.