However, in doing so, the basic test of whether the visit is for government purposes must be satisfied. On 4 May, there will be local elections in England, Wales and Scotland as well as mayoral elections in England. It is permissible for local authorities to publish factual information which identifies the names, wards and parties of candidates at elections. They had been required to do so following an earlier court judgement. The aim should be to respond to requests from candidates and campaigners as soon as possible. The pre-election period has implications for NHS organisations, including the arm's-length bodies. Continue to plan communications activity for post the pre-election period. Care should also be taken in relation to proposed visits. Westgate Road epitomises the hustle and bustle of Newcastle, but just how clean are the restaurants and takeaways on the city centre staple? We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services. But in the run-up to the UK referendum on leaving the EU, even this became politically charged, with some Eurosceptic Tory politicians arguing, successfully, that the government should not change the purdah rules. WebA pre election period in local government ends on the close of polls which, for ordinary elections, is usually on the first Thursday in May. The term'heightened sensitivity is also used. As always you can unsubscribe at any time. ", He flagged up the fact purdah rules preclude public bodies from publishing any material which, in whole, or in part, appears to be designed to affect public support for a political party.. Webreferred to in the past as Purdah. Its a very significant announcement to be made this close to polling day and is certainly contrary to the spirit of the Purdah expectations. The pre-election restrictions are governed by Section 2 of the Local Government Act 19862, as amended in 1988.3 Essentially councils should not publish any material which, in whole or in part, appears to be designed to affect public support for a political party. Click 'allow all cookies' if you're happy with this. We'll start to publish details approximately 6 months before election day. 9 March 2021 In this collection 2022 2021 2019 2022 Local government elections 2022: guidance for Welsh Government staff 3 March 2022 Guidance 2021 Elections to Senedd Cymru May 2021: guidance for Welsh Government officials 9 March 2021 Guidance 2019 Conduct during the UK general election 2019 26 November 2019 Local Elections 2022: How councillors are paid in England, Scotland and Wales, Former Tory chairman Chris Patten slams 'moral vacuum' Boris Johnson on eve of local elections, Sunderland local elections: All you need to know ahead of Thursday's city council elections, Ant McPartlin leaves Britain's Got Talent set as act's future on ITV show hangs in balance, Britain's Got Talent presenter Ant McPartlin briefly left the set of the ITV show after becoming bored of one of the auditions, Faces of 52 vile North East criminals who were locked up in April, We have rounded up all the offenders who were locked up for their crimes in April 2023 - including a man jailed for 19 years for murder, Gut health expert highlights five signs of IBS you shouldn't ignore, Here are the signs of IBS to look out for and when you should seek medical advice, Why is I'm A Celebrity not on? These rules and regulations are set out in the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 (PPERA) and are monitored and enforced by the Electoral Commission, an independent body that exists to ensure elections are transparent and fair. WebWhat you should and shouldn't do during the pre-election period. In short, if a "reasonable" person could conclude that public money was being spent to influence the outcome of the election through a given action, then a council cannot do said action. The House of Commons Library has a research note out explaining the rules about Friday 26 November 2021 Election count. The LGA would like to thank LGcommunications, Coventry City Council, Warwickshire County Council and Eastleigh Borough Council in the creation of this document. 7am to 10pm on Thursday 5 May 2022. . as an attempt by the government of the day to gag NHS bodies from publishing information it saw as a threat to its general election campaign.[19]. This event brings together those focused on keeping people well at home and in the community. The pre election period typically begins six weeks before the scheduled election, in each authority on the day the notice of election is published; for the 2017 elections to Combined Authority Mayors, purdah began on 23 March. produce publicity on matters which are politically controversial, make references to individual candidates or parties in press releases, arrange proactive media or events involving candidates, issue photographs which include candidates, supply council photographs or other materials to political group staff unless you have verified that they will not be used for campaigning purposes, continue hosting third party blogs or e-communications. We use cookies and reporting technology to ensure we offer you the best experience across our website and analyse our traffic. Updated: 5:13 PM EDT May 3, 2022. The by-election is a needless expense for the cash-strapped council that has been caused by Tory Mayor Jason Perry putting himself This three-week period began on 14th April 2022 and follows the same fundamental principles as General Election Purdah. However, departments should avoid taking action that will compete with candidates for the attention of the public. We've contacted the council for comment. WebThe next local elections for Wirral Council will be held on Thursday 4 May 2023. Who's to say? It is the six week, pre-election period - which begin on this occasion on March 21 - between the announcement of an election and the date the election is held. Allow visits by candidates/political parties, national or local politicians, or campaign groups to your organisation to interrupt services or care for patients make sure your staff are aware of any visits in advance. You have accepted additional cookies. WebRT @raycasey2003: Dirty Dozen - the Top12 #BenHouchen cronies No.8Denise McGuckin PART 2 OF 4 Denise McGuckin will do anything to please her Daddy Ben. We use some essential cookies to make this website work. The pre-election period (formerly known as Purdah (/prd/)) is the period in the United Kingdom between the announcement of an election and the formation of the new elected government. These restrictions apply to all elections happening during this period. WebThe 2024 London mayoral election will be held on 2 May 2024 to elect the mayor of London, England. To view this licence, visit nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/version/3 or write to the Information Policy Team, The National Archives, Kew, London TW9 4DU, or email: psi@nationalarchives.gov.uk. On Thursday 5 May 2022, elections will be taking place: Further information on the areas affected is attached at Annex A. referring to advice published by your Returning Officer and/or Monitoring Officer, the Code of Recommended Practice on Local Authority Publicity. Further guidance may be sought from the Union and Constitution Directorate and the Parliamentary Business and Legislation Team in the Cabinet Office. In this case the Government was taken to court having taking a decision not to publish its clean air strategy. Continue to plan campaigns post the pre-election period. ", UK Government Election guidance for civil servants, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Purdah_(pre-election_period)&oldid=1142092824, Articles with unsourced statements from June 2017, All articles with specifically marked weasel-worded phrases, Articles with specifically marked weasel-worded phrases from October 2019, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 3.0, This page was last edited on 28 February 2023, at 13:15. ITV 'pull' show for two nights in a row after brutal elimination, The new All Stars series of I'm A Celebrity won't air on ITV on either Saturday or Sunday night this weekend, The stylish 1m Whitley Bay penthouse on the market boasting stunning sea views, A beautifully presented property, the Esplanade penthouse is packed with potential with incredible 180 degree views, Every food hygiene rating for businesses on Newcastle's Westgate Road - from five to zero. In general you should not issue any publicity which seeks to influence voters (an exception being situations covered by legislation or regulations directing publication of information for explanatory purposes). official guidance from the Cabinet Office. Particular care should be taken between the time of publication of a notice of an election and polling day. so this is the returning officer for the Hartlepool elections tomorrow openly endorsing the Tory Mayor & his purdah-breaking announcement today.". Local Government Association company number 11177145, Membership and services for councils and councillors, LGA principal advisers and regional teams, Licences, regulations and trading standards, produced by the National Cyber Security Centre. Any enquiries from the media should be handled by Departmental Press Officers. 168 independent councillors were elected, while the Scottish Liberal Democrats and Scottish Greens achieved 67 and 19 councillors respectively. The rules preclude public bodies from publishing any material which, in whole, or in part, appears to be designed to affect public support for a political party. It could be argued that as a Conservative he was using the announcement to bolster support for Tory candidates in Hartlepool. Political activity connected with local elections falls within the definition of local political activity. In some cases it may be better to defer an announcement until after the elections, but this would need to be balanced carefully against any implication that deferral could itself influence the political outcome. UK Government departments should carefully consider the handling of primary legislation that includes provisions on Northern Ireland matters during the election period. Civil servants are given official guidance by the Cabinet Office on the rules they must follow in relation to Government business during this time. Despite historically seeing a lower turnout and less intensity than general elections, local council elections provide a key chance for members of the public to effect tangible, on the ground change in their local community. Political activity connected with the Northern Ireland election falls within the definition of national political activity. For example, it is unlawful for anyone to do any of the following within 250 metres of a polling station: Orally tell someone how they should vote. WebPre-election Period (Purdah) Guidance For PCC Elections May 2020 1. The Act defines publicity as any communication, in whatever form, addressed to the public at large or to a section of the public.. Obviously, this needs to be balanced carefully against any implication that deferral itself could influence the political outcome. While Mr Houchen isn't up for re-election today, many Hartlepool councillors are. They may then wish to take advice from the Cabinet Offices Propriety & Ethics team. Similarly, national announcements by the UK Government may have a particular impact on Northern Ireland. to ensure that public resources are not used for party political purposes; and. In Scotland, elections will be held in all 32 local authorities. She tweeted: "Riiight. Ministers will wish to be aware of the potential sensitivities in this regard and might decide, on advice, to postpone making certain announcements until after the elections. Thursday 25 November Election day. It is for individual public bodies to apply this pre-election guidance within their own organisations, but in doing so they should not go beyond the principles set out in this document. 2023 local elections A number of councils will have elections on Thursday 4 May 2023. Labour Party incumbent Sadiq Khan is running for re-election to a third term in office. If a consultation is ongoing during this period, it should continue as normal. This briefing sets out considerations for NHS foundation trusts and trusts in the period of time known In the event of an inconclusive election result, purdah does not end until a new government forms. Voter ID requirement From 4 May 2023, voters in England will need to show photo ID to vote at polling stations in some elections. In cases of doubt, in the first instance you should consult your Permanent Secretarys Office. Article Summary. The pre-election period (previously referred toas purdah) refers to the period shortly before an election or referendum when specific restrictions on the activity of public bodies, civil servants and local government officials are put in place. The terms pre-election period and heightened sensitivity are nowused instead. [1] The pre-election period also continues after the election during the time in which new MPs and ministers are sworn in. Familiarise yourself with the official guidance from the Cabinet Office. [1][16], Care during periods of heightened sensitivity. This note provides guidance to civil servants working in the Scottish Government, its agencies The following general principles should be observed by all civil servants, including Special Advisers: As with all UK Government Ministers, the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland continues to be in charge of his department, and civil servants should continue to support him. 3 March 2022. To vote at a polling station, you will need to bring photo ID. Official support must not be given to visits and events with a party political or campaigning purpose. Not a problem! Mr Shapps accused the mayor of breaching purdah rules and claimed: This announcement is an act of breathtaking political cynicism by the mayor, breaking election rules on such announcements in an effort to garner votes the day before the local elections in London. Where it is clear that it will not be possible to provide a quick response, the candidate should be given the opportunity to refine the request if they wish so that it can be responded to more quickly. 2017s local election results saw the SNP lose seven of their council seats and one local authority altogether, but the party also declared a historic victory in gaining Glasgow City Council from Scottish Labour. Gordon Brown therefore remained a temporary Prime Minister until a Government could be formed. Yes, I think they have a fair point. WebDate: Monday 28 March 2022. Particular care should be taken over official support, and the use of public resources, including publicity, for government announcements that could have a bearing on matters relevant to the elections. After the previous Scottish council elections in 2017 saw Scottish Labours presence in local government decline further, the party led by Anas Sarwar will be hoping to regain lost ground as the SNP seem set to continue to their success at the ballot box. Special care should be taken in respect of paid publicity campaigns and to ensure that publicity is not open to the criticism that it is being undertaken for party political purposes. Insiders to the Brown camp after the 2010 election describe him as being desperate to do something proactive, but being reminded by the Civil Service of his responsibilities under Purdah. The principles set out here are not about restricting commentary from independent sources, for example academics who may also hold public appointments or non-executive roles in government departments or public bodies. Care should also be taken to avoid any intrusion into the lives of individuals using the services. It is important to remember that this applies to online communication such as social media, in the same way as other activity. In cases of doubt, further guidance should be sought from your Permanent Secretarys office (who may then seek advice from the Cabinet Office - see relevant paragraph. Su. Labour Party incumbent Sadiq Khan is running for re-election to a third term in office. The last Scottish council elections were held in 2017 on Thursday May 4, with all 32 of Scotlands local authorities in play. The most frequently asked questions about the pre-election period. Please register or log in to comment on this article. These should be organised by political parties with no cost or resource implications for the council. With the English, Welsh and Scottish Local Elections taking place on the 5th May it is worth asking whether Purdah also applies to local elections. This is particularly important where a consultation will require the participation of: (a) the Northern Ireland devolved administration, which is under its own pre-election restrictions during this period, or (b) Local Authorities which are under their own pre-election publicity restrictions during this period[footnote 1]. WebThe election will take place the same day as elections to the London Assembly, as well as local elections across England and Wales. This also applies to requests from mayoral candidates. In the vast majority of cases, the pre-election period will have no impact on normal council business, including the approval of planning decisions. General Elections in the UK are strictly regulated. I hope this letter provides you with the general information you need for the pre-election period, but if you have specific concerns or queries, please feel free to contact xxxx. The future of democracy is also a voting issue for many, with 70% of registered voters saying it is very important to their midterm vote. Keep any communications with local candidates/political parties/campaign groups/other politicians to a factual and apolitical basis apply the same approach to any requests for information, communications with the media and in the public sphere. London Assembly The latest date for pre-election We have updated Part 1 of our guidance for Candidates and Agents to reflect this. I had heard of purdah but didnt realise that local elections had a period of heightened sensitivity. Local authorities should pay particular regard to the legislation governing publicity during the period of heightened sensitivity before elections and referendums. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google, This website and its associated newspaper are members of Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO). Language links are at the top of the page across from the title. Should you have any questions about the pre-election period, please do not hesitate to. not to undertake any activity that could call into question their political impartiality. Hints and tips for communications activity over the pre-election period. We also may change the frequency you receive our emails from us in order to keep you up to date and give you the best relevant information possible. What you should and shouldn't do during the pre-election period. 33 organisations come together to ask Welsh Government ministers how they are working with officials to reduce the impact of inequalities and poverty. The first question to ask is could a reasonable person conclude that you are spending public money to influence the outcome of the election? In other words it must pass the is it reasonable test. The pre-election period (informally known as 'purdah') begins with the publication of the Notice of Election for an election, and runs until the election has taken place. Civil Servants must not answer questions about the potential implementation of party manifestos. Director of the Welsh NHS Confederation Darren Hughes responds to the latest NHS performance statistics in Wales. For UK and devolved government departments the pre-election period for local elections is not In addition there is something called Purdah, which is an important part of the election process in the UK. Government communicators should apply the principles set out above when planning and delivering communications activities that will take place during the election periods. The council can still issue media releases on factual matters provided that these do not identify individual councillors or groups of councillors. One difference with Hartlepool was that Mr Khan was not quoted in Transport for Londons public announcement or press release, and purdah guidelines state that some forms of normal government business can continue during the period. If in doubt, always refer to Cabinet Office guidance (PDF). Allow party political meetings to take place on your organisations premises. Do not publish any publicity on controversial issues or report views on proposals in a way which identifies them with candidates or parties. 21 Apr 2023 17:58:12 Elections to all 32 Scottish local authorities take place on 5 May 2022. When local elections are being held at the same time as a general election, this higher standard is usually applied. If in doubt, always refer to theguidance published by the Cabinet Office and the Civil Service. It is also important to take care with official websites, including gov.uk, and use of social media that will be scrutinised closely by the news media and the political parties during the election period. Departments with Bills containing provisions that may impact on Northern Ireland or require Legislative Consent Motions should therefore discuss the position with the Union and Constitution Directorate and the Parliamentary Business and Legislation Team in the Cabinet Office, the Northern Ireland Office, and their policy contacts in the Northern Ireland Executive. Jeff Stelling leaving Sky Sports after 30 years with Soccer Saturday, Ryanair cancels 220 flights over May 1 bank holiday due to strikes, Hardcore coronation fans already camped outside Buckingham Palace, One dead and seven injured in Cornwall nightclub knife attack, Coronation Street actress Barbara Young dies aged 92, Eurovision acts land in Liverpool ahead of Song Contest, Council elections: Scottish Labour candidate Vanessa Shand axed after 'Catholic monarchy' comment and SNP's Siobhan Tolland urged to quit following Pope slur. Find out which areas have local elections this May . Six-in-ten or more say Further advice on public appointments can be sought from the Cabinet Office Public Appointments Policy team. It is your decision whether to invite them or not. Councils should consider carefully before starting any new consultations or publish report findings from consultation exercises, which could be politically sensitive. Each case should be considered on its merits. The rules applies to all communications, including social media. March 20, 2022 - 12:49 pm. When is the pre-election period? In particular, civil servants are under an obligation: In all cases essential business, which includes routine business necessary to ensure the continued smooth functioning of government and public services, must be allowed to continue. This is not the case, and the ordinary functions of councils can continue, but some restrictions may be imposed by law. Ultimately, you must always be guided by the principle of fairness. However, you should always think carefully if a campaign could be deemed likely to influence the outcome of the election. 14 June 2023 08:30 - 15 June 2023 17:00 GMT. These cookies help make the website usable by enabling basic functions like page navigation and access to secure areas of the website. This helps us to understand where we can improve functionality on the website to provide visitors with a better experience. At all times, local authorities should ensure that publicity complies with all applicable statutory provisions, including the Code of Recommended Practice on Local Authority Publicity 2011. At any other time - ie not during the run up to local elections - it would have appeared a positive enough tweet by Hartlepool Borough Council relaying good news to residents about new investment coming its way. Special care will need to be exercised in relation to Northern Ireland from 28 March for the elections to the Northern Ireland Assembly.