Police Conclude Investigation into Alleged 'Family Voting' in By-Election
Greater Manchester Police has officially closed its inquiry into claims of 'family voting' during the Gorton and Denton by-election, stating that no evidence was found to support allegations of illegal activity. The investigation was launched after reports from election observers, but police determined there was 'no remaining reasonable line of inquiry' due to insufficient proof of intent to influence voters.
Background of the Allegations
The controversy began when the election observer group Democracy Volunteers reported witnessing 'concerningly high levels' of family voting, an illegal practice where individuals enter polling booths together or direct others on how to vote. Reform UK, whose candidate Matt Goodwin secured second place with 28.7% of the vote, formally reported these incidents to Greater Manchester Police. The by-election, held in February, was won by the Green Party's Hannah Spencer with 40.7% of the vote and a majority of 4,402.
Police Findings and Evidence Review
In a statement released on Friday, Greater Manchester Police detailed that eyewitness accounts from observers indicated some instances of multiple people entering booths simultaneously and individuals looking over voters' shoulders. However, police emphasized that these accounts did not include allegations of verbal instruction or physical conduct aimed at directing or coercing votes, which is a critical element required under the Ballot Secrecy Act 2023 to prove an offence.
The force attempted to gather more specific information by requesting descriptions of those involved and timings of the incidents from Democracy Volunteers. Unfortunately, these details were not documented, and no identities or descriptions were provided, hindering further investigation. Additionally, police reviewed CCTV footage from three polling stations visited by the observers and interviewed presiding officers, but found no evidence of direction or coercion.
Legal Implications and Conclusion
Under the Ballot Secrecy Act 2023, proving an offence requires evidence of intent to influence or prevent someone from voting. Greater Manchester Police concluded that there was no such evidence in this case, leading to the closure of the probe. The force reiterated that while some behaviors were observed, they did not meet the legal threshold for prosecution, ensuring the integrity of the electoral process remains intact.
