Election Preparations in London: Enhanced Materials to Support Voter Safety
As London gears up for the upcoming Mayor of London and London Assembly elections on 6 May 2021, authorities are taking significant steps to ensure voter safety amid the ongoing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Greater London Returning Officer (GLRO) is tasked with providing essential resources to all London boroughs, including crucial voter information and printed materials.
Funding and Agreements
In a decision recorded on 11 October 2019, the GLRO approved a budget of up to £150,000 for the procurement of services related to the design, printing, translation, and delivery of election materials to 32 London boroughs and the City of London. The print management company CDS has been appointed as the sole supplier through the CCS Public Sector Managed Print and Digital Solutions framework.
Following the postponement of the originally scheduled elections on 7 May 2020, an extensive review process took place involving the GLA London Elects team and CDS to ensure the timely delivery of materials for the rescheduled elections. A claim for £21,590.45, representing sunk costs associated with the postponed elections, was scrutinised by GLA Finance officers and has been approved, provided adequate supporting documentation is submitted. Legal and procurement teams were consulted, maintaining due diligence throughout the process.
Enhancements for Voter Safety
In response to updated government guidance aimed at facilitating safe elections during the COVID-19 pandemic, the GLRO has approved additional materials to be distributed among London boroughs. These materials include:
- COVID-19 safety signage, featuring A4 laminated posters (available in packs of 10 with various messages).
- Indoor floor stickers for social distancing, offered in packs of 5, with two different messaging options for boroughs to select.
Moreover, there is a statutory obligation to supply up to 4,000 Tactile Voting Devices, which are designed specifically for blind or partially sighted voters, ensuring they can cast their votes independently and privately. These devices are essential for use with three distinct ballot papers: those for the Mayor of London, the London-wide Assembly member, and the Constituency Assembly member. The provisions for these devices are governed by established election rules.
Supplier Selection and Project Management
Officers acknowledged the necessity for a formal tendering process for contracts exceeding £25,000. However, they found that Pakflatt Ltd uniquely holds a patent for the Tactile Voting Devices, making it the sole provider for this service. Consequently, the assessment concluded that seeking other bids would not be an effective use of resources.
As a result, Pakflatt Ltd has been requested to provide quotes for the design, manufacturing, and supply of the necessary voting devices. Both CDS and Pakflatt Ltd will collaborate on the project, with oversight from the London Elects project team, ensuring clear communication and comprehensive project reporting.
Background
The measures implemented for the upcoming elections are significant, given the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and its implications for public gatherings, including voting. With local governance being pivotal to community welfare, ensuring a safe and secure electoral process is paramount.
Source: official statements, news agencies, and public reports.
https://www.london.gov.uk/decisions/glro-21-12-covid-19-safety-signage-and-tactile-voting-devices
