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<p>Democracy should not be cancelled because of covid. The Government has confirmed
that the set of local and Police and Crime Commissioner elections scheduled for May
will go ahead, and made a firm commitment that the Government will support the sector
to deliver them.</p><p> </p><p>The Government has published a clear Delivery Plan
for the May elections, setting out how the Government will support local elections
teams to deliver effective polls that are covid-secure for voters and staff.</p><p>
</p><p>Proxy voting rules will be changed, enabling those who need to self-isolate
to request an emergency proxy vote at short notice - right up to 5pm on polling day
itself. This 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
residence.</p><p> </p><p>It is an offence to provide false information on any voter
registration form or any form requesting an absent vote. Information will have to
be taken at face value as not all electors will be able to produce evidence. For example,
some electors will be self-isolating due to contact with others. Others may show symptoms
too late to be tested or otherwise have symptoms and are unable to produce a positive
test.</p><p> </p><p>Further guidance for all those involved in the elections will
be available in due course and well in advance of the polls.</p><p> </p>
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