Tower Hamlets unveils new election procedures to prevent vote-rigging

Tough new election procedures are being introduced by Tower Hamlets Council to prevent a repeat of the vote-rigging scandals of the past.

The council unveiled its new rules last week (January 24) to increase confidence in the voting system ahead of local elections in May.

The election protocol was announced at a Town Hall meeting of the council, the Electoral Commission and the police, who pledged to ensure free and fair elections, campaigns that stay within the law, and investigations into any claims of fraud.

John Williams, returning officer for Tower Hamlets Council, said: “In the past there has been a breakdown in trust between individuals and organisations involved in the electoral process.

“The protocol addresses some of the issues raised and stands as a commitment to a more positive experience at future elections.”

Tom Hawthorn, head of electoral policy at the Electoral Commission, welcomed the protocol, but said any allegations of electoral fraud must be dealt with quickly.

He added that the commission will closely monitor the situation in the borough.