Authorities' fears over local election funds and venues

摘要

Concerns remain around funding and securing venues following the Government's confirmation that local elections will go ahead on 6 May. Requirements will include asking voters to bring pens and pencils, and to wear face masks at polling stations, while the appointment of an emergency proxy vote can be made up to 5pm on polling day. Returning officers will be protected against lawsuits for running this year's elections. Electoral law minister Chloe Smith said: 'Democracy should not be cancelled because of COVID.' However, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government said it was still considering requests by the county councils in Cumbria, North Yorkshire and Somerset to postpone the May elections 'due to the unitary proposals currently being reviewed'. Councils have been told they will receive £ 15m to help with COVID-related pressures. However, Local Government Association(LGA) chairman, Cllr James Jamieson, said: 'The additional funding will not cover the measures we will need to take. That will have implications for other services.'