New Government guidance will allow door step election campaigning for the upcoming local elections to take place as long as they are conducted in a COVID-secure way.
Campaigners have been reminded of the need to be socially distanced, wear face coverings and sanitise their hands.
Constitution minister, Chloe Smith, said: ‘Democracy should not be cancelled because of COVID. Voters appreciate being well-informed and campaigning is an important part of effective elections.
’The guidance I have set out today can give voters and candidates confidence that free and fair elections can be delivered on 6 May and, most crucially, in a COVID-Secure way.
’I urge political campaigners to continue to show social responsibility, and for parties, agents and candidates to ensure that their campaigners understand the clear rules.’
The Government has also introduced new measures to ensure people who are self-isolating will still be allowed to vote by making an amendment to emergency proxy voting rules to enable anyone self-isolating or shielding due to COVID-19 to access an emergency proxy vote up to 5pm on election day.
Chloe Smith, said: ‘These elections can and will be delivered in a COVID-secure way and the extended proxy voting rules are a key part of this.
’The new rules will mean that voters who have tested positive for COVID-19, or are self-isolating, can still have their say in these elections without having to leave their home.’
