Londoners urged to read ballot papers carefully at 6 May elections to ensure their vote counts

On Thursday 6 May, Londoners will go to the polls to elect a Mayor and 25 London Assembly members, across three ballot papers. 

Reflecting the high number of candidates for Mayor this year, that ballot paper will see candidate names printed in two parallel lists, rather than one.

The Electoral Commission and London Elects are encouraging voters to mark the ballot paper correctly, to ensure their vote is counted.

Voters should mark one first choice, and one second choice, with crosses on their ballot paper. Once it is completed, there should be no more than two crosses on the whole ballot paper.

Images of the ballot papers, and instruction on how to complete them, can be found on the London Elects website.

The London-wide Assembly Members’ ballot paper will also see party names and independent candidates printed in two parallel lists. The London Assembly Constituency Member ballot papers will see candidate names printed in a single list. 

Craig Westwood, Director of Communications at the Electoral Commission, said: 
“Londoners will be given three separate ballot papers at the upcoming election. Whether casting a vote at a polling station or completing a postal ballot, it’s really important to read the instructions carefully. Staff will be on hand in polling stations to answer any questions. Marking a ballot incorrectly could potentially mean your vote is rejected, so take your time and make sure your vote counts.”

Alex Conway, Deputy Greater London Returning Officer, said:

“We want to ensure that voters are crystal clear on how to cast their votes. This year there are a high number of candidates standing in the election for London Mayor. Voters can mark a first and second choice from the total list of candidates. They should do this by marking a single vote for each preference on the ballot paper.”


Ends

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


Images of the three ballot papers can be found here:
•    Mayor of London ballot paper
•    London-wide Assembly Member ballot paper
•    Constituency Assembly Member ballot paper

Notes to editors

Notes to editors on the Electoral Commission

  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

Notes to editors on London Elects

  1. This unique form of local government represents the interests of London and Londoners. London has one Mayor and 25 Assembly Members. The Mayor of London is responsible for running the city, from policing and housing to environment and transport. The Assembly keeps a check on the Mayor’s work and investigates issues that matter to Londoners.
  2. London Elects, under the direction of the Greater London Returning Officer (GLRO) – is responsible for delivering and encouraging participation in the Mayor of London and London Assembly elections.  London Elects is part of the Greater London Authority.
  3. To find out more, visit: www.londonelects.org.uk