A low turnout would be criminal

On November 15^th, voters across Wales’ four police areas will have the opportunity to elect Police & Crime Commissioners.  Concerns have been raised that despite the best efforts of candidates campaigning hard on the ground, many voters remain unaware of this crucial set of elections.

Last month, the Electoral Reform Society warned that the Home Office’s ill-prepared plans could see turn-out in November’s election hit an historic low of 18.5%

Whether you see the new commissioners as a redistribution of democratic power, or fear the creeping politicisation of the police; one thing is clear – if we are to have elected Police & Crime Commissioners it is essential that the elections are run effectively.

That’s why this week the Electoral Reform Society (ERS) has stepped up pressure on the Home Secretary, Theresa May.  In an open letter the ERS along with Welsh Labour candidates Alun Michael, Christine Gwyther, and Tal Michael have  joined forces with PCC candidates from across theUK and the political spectrum to ask the Home Secretary to re-think her plans. Other signatories include former Deputy Assistant Commission for the Metropolitan police, Lib Dem Brian Paddick; Ann Barnes, former Deputy Chair of the National Association of Police Authorities; and Martin Underhill, the detective who worked on the Sarah Payne case.

To avoid empty polling stations in November, the Home Secretary must ensure voters know the elections are happening and who the candidates are. The Electoral Commission will be mailing every household to let people know the elections are taking place and it is just common sense that information on candidates is included so that people know who they are expected to vote for.  The UK Government should include local and regional broadcast media as part of its package for raising awareness and finally the letter asks that the Home Secretary pledge never to hold a major election in the winter again – helping to improve turnout and reduce costs in one fell swoop.

If the Home Secretary is serious about people having a say she needs to listen to the warnings coming from all sides and take action now.

For more information on how not to run an election visit: http://www.electoral-reform.org.uk/how-not-to-run-an-election

Stephen Brooks is Director of the Electoral Reform Society Wales