The Electoral Commission’s Polling Officers’ Pocket Facts provides detailed guidance on how voting is conducted at polling stations, outlining procedures aimed at ensuring transparency, order, and voter confidence.
According to the handbook, polling stations must be opened in the presence of voters and candidates’ agents. Before voting begins, the Presiding Officer is required to display empty ballot boxes to those present and then seal them to confirm that no ballot papers have been inserted beforehand.
Voters are processed one at a time. Each voter is verified using the approved voter identification procedures before being issued with a ballot paper. The document emphasizes that only eligible voters whose names appear on the voters’ register are allowed to vote.
Once issued with a ballot paper, the voter proceeds to the voting area in secrecy, marks their choice, and places the ballot paper into the appropriate ballot box. Polling officials are instructed not to influence voters or observe how they vote.
Throughout the voting process, polling officials must maintain accurate records, manage queues, and ensure that polling agents and observers operate within the law. The handbook highlights that the Presiding Officer has the authority to manage the polling station and address any disruptions in accordance with electoral regulations.
The Electoral Commission underscores that these procedures are designed to safeguard the integrity of the vote and protect the rights of all voters.
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