Bob Posner, Chief Executive of the Electoral Commission, said: 

“The final counts have now been completed and the results are all in for the May 2021 elections. While a detailed process of information gathering and evaluation will follow, our initial assessment is that the polls were well-run. Current evidence indicates that they took place without significant or wide-spread administrative issues, making best use of new and adapted processes to support Covid-safety, and supporting the participation of the electorate in these important democratic events. 

“This was one of the most complex sets of polls held in recent times, with the additional and far-ranging challenges presented by the Covid pandemic. The apparent smooth-running of the democratic process is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the electoral community, most notably the network of Returning Officers and electoral administrators across Great Britain, who have worked tirelessly to prepare for and run these elections in these testing and uncertain circumstances. 

“Others such as Royal Mail also played a vital role, with their work helping to ensure that the many thousands of postal votes cast could reach voters and return to be counted in time. Our thanks also go to the Commission’s wide network of partner organisations which has supported our work to ensure that voters had all the information they needed to participate safely and with confidence.

“We will be reporting formally on the delivery of the polls in the autumn, so that lessons can be captured and learned. Our regulatory work is focussed on supporting parties and campaigners to comply with the campaign finance requirements that provide for public transparency.”

Ends

For more information contact the Electoral Commission press office on 020 7271 0704, out of office hours 07789 920 414 or [email protected]
 

Notes to editors

1.    The Electoral Commission is the independent body which oversees elections and regulates political finance in the UK. We work to promote public confidence in the democratic process and ensure its integrity by:

  • enabling the delivery of free and fair elections and referendums, focusing on the needs of electors and addressing the changing environment to ensure every vote remains secure and accessible
  • regulating political finance – taking proactive steps to increase transparency, ensure compliance and pursue breaches
  • using our expertise to make and advocate for changes to our democracy, 
  • aiming to improve fairness, transparency and efficiency

2.    The Commission reports to the UK, Scottish and Welsh parliaments.