THE notice of the Police and Crime Commissioner Election for Wiltshire and Swindon has been formally published, with the polls set to open on 19th August.
The election follows the disbarring of former Conservative Police & Crime Commissioner candidate, Jonathon Seed who won the original May election, but was not allowed to take up office because of a historic drink driving offence.
Wiltshire Council report, “The previous Police and Crime Commissioner election took place on 6th May 2021 but, as the eventual nominated candidate was unable to take office, the election has to be re-held. Those who wish to stand for election and be a candidate have from 16th July until 23rd July at 4pm to submit their paperwork.
“If people want to vote they have to ensure they are on the electoral register by midnight on 3rd August. Those who are already on the register do not need to re-register. Those who wish to vote by post who haven’t done so before need to get their applications in by 5pm on 4th August. Voting by post is more convenient for the voter and also saves Wiltshire Council money. Alternatively, people can nominate someone to vote on a person’s behalf and applications for this must be received by 11th August at 5pm.
“The role of the Police and Crime Commissioner is to be the voice of the people and hold the police to account, effectively making the police answerable to the communities they serve. They will be responsible for the totality of policing in Wiltshire and Swindon.
“The polls open on 19th August from 7am until 10pm. Poll cards will be posted out to people later this month, and these will include details of the local polling station to use. Many of the polling stations used in May’s election will be available again, but people are asked to make sure they know their allocated one before they set off as some will be different.”
Terence Herbert, Police Area Returning Officer for Wiltshire and Swindon, said, “It’s important to us to run a safe, smooth and democratic election.
“Our elections team recently delivered the highest number of elections ever seen in Wiltshire, and given the pandemic, certainly the most complex. And having come out the other side of that successfully and professionally, the team is in a great frame of mind and ready for next month.
“The role of the Police and Crime Commissioner and the outcome of this election will have an impact on our day-to-day lives, so I’d encourage everyone to make sure voting is part of their summer plans.”
More information about the election can be found at https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/elections-pcc
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