Delivery Disaster Unfolds
Thousands of postal votes have failed to reach voters in at least 90 constituencies across England, Scotland, and Wales ahead of Thursday's election. Ministers are calling for an urgent probe into the issue.
Ministers Demand Action
Postal affairs minister Kevin Hollinrake criticized Royal Mail for the delivery disaster, calling it "not acceptable" and urging the service to improve its competency. Some councils have set up emergency drop-in centers for voters who have not received their postal vote packs.
Ministerial Response
Kevin Hollinrake emphasized the importance of timely delivery of postal votes, stating, "Time is completely of the essence now." Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho stressed the critical nature of ensuring people can cast their votes, especially as a small number of changed votes could sway the election outcome.
Royal Mail's Action Plan
Royal Mail has deployed additional staff and implemented measures to ensure all postal votes are identified and returned to the relevant authorities before polling stations close. The service aims to deliver the votes promptly to polling stations before the election day deadline.
