Postal Vote Delays Mar UK General Election, Prompt Calls for Reform
Thousands of voters were unable to cast their ballots due to postal issues, raising questions about the current electoral system's adequacy.
- Electoral Commission acknowledges late postal votes prevented some from voting but insists overall polling day ran smoothly.
- Reports indicate up to 120 constituencies experienced postal vote delays, affecting thousands of voters both in the UK and abroad.
- Calls for reform include extending the postal vote application timeline and allowing emergency proxies for undelivered ballots.
- Legal challenges may arise in marginal constituencies where postal vote issues could affect election outcomes.
- Critics blame systemic issues, including cuts to local government and the privatisation of Royal Mail, for the voting chaos.