Democracy Minister faces questions on the resilience of the electoral system

The session will examine the Government’s assessment of the administration, process and conduct of the 2024 general election, and its plans for electoral reform in light of this assessment. 

The Committee will also question the Minister on the Government’s response to the Electoral Commission’s report on the General election and the introduction of voter ID. The report highlighted ‘a number of significant improvements necessary to support participation and trust in future elections’. 

Chair of the Electoral Commission, John Pullinger, told the Committee that the last general election was “well run”, but the timing of the election was “problematic”.   

The Committee are likely to ask about the decline in voter turnout, the resilience and integrity of the electoral system and the future of postal voting.  

Other topics which may be examined include how voting for people with accessibility needs can be improved, the funding of elections, and the rise in abuse and intimidation towards candidates. 

Witnesses

• Rushanara Ali MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Minister for Homelessness and Democracy), Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government 
• Stuart Ison, Director for Elections, Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government

Further information

• About Parliament: Select committees
• Visiting Parliament: Watch committees

Image: House of Commons