Electoral Commission backs e-voting

By Alun Williams

Posted on 30 Apr 2003 at 11:57

The UK Electoral Commission has backed initiatives to introduce e-voting into British political life.

The independent body quotes a recent survey stating that more than half (55 per cent) of English adults expressed approval of e-voting, saying it would encourage them to vote at the next local election. That figure rose to three-quarters when it came to the 18-24 year olds age range.

While Internet-based voting was the most enticing (41 per cent), text messaging recorded 33 per cent approval, electronic kiosks 30 per cent and digital TV 26 per cent.

The survey was carried out earlier this month by Taylor Nelson Sofres, interviewing 813 English adults.

The need for voting initiative results from the widespread apathy seen at recent elections. Turnout at local government elections last year fell to just 32 per cent, and only 59 per cent of us bothered to exercise our democratic right at the last general election.

According to Nicole Smith, director of policy at the Electoral Commission, it is important that we look at ways in which it will be easier for people to vote.

'People still care about education, taxes, policing and healthcare as much as before,' said Smith, 'but turnout at elections has been falling. That is at least in part due to a lack of convenience for voters. When life is very hectic a trip to the polling station can be hard to fit in.'

As we reported - e-voting underway in local elections - electronic voting has already started this week. The areas taking part comprise Sheffield, Ipswich, Norwich, St Albans and South Somerset.

Traditional 'manual' polling for the local council elections occurs tomorrow.