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11/09/2012
Electoral Commission Questions Government Over Police Election Ads
The Electoral Commission has warned that a government advertising campaign to promote police commissioner elections risks undermining confidence in the polls.
The commission has raised concerns about the repercussions for the polls if voters and candidates "question the neutrality" of the ads.
Saying that it was a "significant departure from usual practice" for the government to do its own public awareness campaign.
The Home Office however said the TV and radio campaigns would be fair.
In a briefing for MPs about the elections, the Electoral Commission said it had learnt the government was planning its own TV and radio campaign starting early next month.
"This is a significant departure from usual practice and if questions are raised about the neutrality of it by voters or candidates it could affect public confidence in the elections," it said.
"The government has assured us it is aware of these concerns and has taken the decision to proceed."
"While we do not agree with these decisions, our focus is now on making the arrangements work for voters," the watchdog added.
Elections will be held in 41 regions across England and Wales on 15 November to choose police and crime commissioners - who will replace the currently appointed police authorities.
The Electoral Commission is planning its own TV, radio and newspaper advertising campaign in the run-up to polling day, starting on 22 October.
(H)
The commission has raised concerns about the repercussions for the polls if voters and candidates "question the neutrality" of the ads.
Saying that it was a "significant departure from usual practice" for the government to do its own public awareness campaign.
The Home Office however said the TV and radio campaigns would be fair.
In a briefing for MPs about the elections, the Electoral Commission said it had learnt the government was planning its own TV and radio campaign starting early next month.
"This is a significant departure from usual practice and if questions are raised about the neutrality of it by voters or candidates it could affect public confidence in the elections," it said.
"The government has assured us it is aware of these concerns and has taken the decision to proceed."
"While we do not agree with these decisions, our focus is now on making the arrangements work for voters," the watchdog added.
Elections will be held in 41 regions across England and Wales on 15 November to choose police and crime commissioners - who will replace the currently appointed police authorities.
The Electoral Commission is planning its own TV, radio and newspaper advertising campaign in the run-up to polling day, starting on 22 October.
(H)
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Northern Ireland WeatherThis Evening and Tonight:A mainly dry evening and night with isolated showers dying out and some longer clear spells. Then it will cloud over towards morning with some heavy showers. Minimum temperature 7 °C.
