New Rules for Postal Voting Introduced in Westmorland and Furness Ahead of General Election

Residents in Westmorland and Furness constituencies are facing changes to the rules governing postal voting as the UK parliamentary general election approaches on Thursday, July 4.

Under the updated regulations, individuals handing in postal votes at polling stations or council offices must now include a completed postal vote return form along with their ballot. Failure to submit the necessary form will result in the rejection of the postal vote.

The revisions also include restrictions on the number of postal votes that can be delivered by a single person. To hand in a postal vote at a polling station or designated council office, voters are required to fill out a postal vote return form to ensure the validity of their submission.

Polling stations will have Presiding Officers and Clerks available to assist voters in completing the form on the spot. Meanwhile, signage at designated council offices will guide electors on where to go to finalize the required form for submitting their postal votes.

It is crucial that postal votes are not inserted through letterboxes or internal mailboxes, as these actions will lead to the disqualification of the votes. For individuals needing guidance on submitting postal votes to council offices in the Penrith and Solway or Morecambe and Lunesdale constituencies, they can reach out to the respective elections teams of Cumberland Council and Lancaster City Council.

If a voter has spoiled any part of their postal vote pack, lost it, or never received it, they can request a reissue. The reissuance process for postal votes will be overseen by the Acting Returning Officer for each constituency. Additionally, inquiries regarding reissues in the Barrow and Furness, and Westmorland and Lonsdale constituencies can be directed to Westmorland and Furness Council.

Concerning reissuing spoiled postal vote packs, it is advised to contact the Acting Returning Officer promptly for guidance on the necessary steps. The complete return of spoiled packs is mandatory before a reissue can be facilitated. Individuals who have not received their postal vote packs should promptly liaise with the Acting Returning Officer to arrange for a reissue.

As the election date approaches, it is paramount for residents in Westmorland and Furness to familiarize themselves with the new requirements in order to ensure their votes are accurately cast and counted.