Increase in Ballot Papers and Extended Counting Process for Upcoming Elections
In a bid to cater to the anticipated rise in postal voting, authorities have approved a substantial increase in the number of ballot papers produced for the upcoming elections. This decision comes alongside plans for a revised counting process that aims to enhance safety measures during the continuing health crisis.
Enhanced Ballot Production
The initial plan calls for an increase of 800,000 ballot papers from the printing company CGI, costing approximately £65,782. Given the unpredictable nature of postal voter turnout, officials have decided to implement a second print run for additional ballots at a cost of £73,691, which is estimated to be more economical than an upfront larger print order. These changes necessitate several adjustments, including:
- Modifications to the election configuration Portal used by boroughs to communicate their ballot needs.
- Blocking time for CGI to prepare for the second print.
- Heightened quality control measures and increased delivery logistics.
- Procurement of additional ballot boxes and related equipment, costing £21,374.
Adapting to Health Guidelines
To mitigate health risks during the electoral process, the contract with CGI has also been extended to incorporate further testing of the electronic counting system. As part of these measures, CGI will install hygiene protection screens at each operator station, incurring a cost of £10,000, with CGI covering half of this expense.
Furthermore, to facilitate social distancing, there will be enhancements made to the infrastructure of the counting areas. This includes:
- Issuing smart cards to all operators, necessitating an increase in the number of issuing terminals from one to two at each count centre, which is estimated to cost £16,978.
- Upgrading screen sizes around adjudication stations at an expense of £14,850.
- Additional networking equipment to support updated count centre layouts is also required, amounting to £13,464.
Two-Day Counting Plan
In discussions with local boroughs, the Greater London Returning Officer (GLRO) has endorsed a two-day election counting process. This extended timeline will help ensure social distancing measures can be effectively implemented among the many staff and visitors present. The counting will take place on 7 and 8 May, compared to the initial single 10-hour counting session under the previous contract with CGI.
To facilitate this extended counting period, CGI and its subcontractors will need to allocate additional staff and equipment, resulting in costs amounting to £212,773. Furthermore, staff coming from overseas will need to adhere to quarantine protocols. CGI is also set to extend the rental of their test site to conduct necessary assessments on the counting system, with this costing approximately £186,846.
Conclusion
This comprehensive approach aims to ensure the electoral process remains adaptable and safe in light of current public health guidelines. The implications of these changes underline the importance of meeting voter needs, especially as more citizens opt for postal voting in the upcoming elections.
Source: official statements, news agencies, and public reports.
https://www.london.gov.uk/decisions/glro-21-10-additional-e-count-covid-19-requirements
