Postal delays leave Scottish holidaymakers unable to vote

There are calls for a review of the postal voting system across Scotland after voters reported not receiving their ballots just one week before polling day.

The Electoral Management Board for Scotland (EMB) said there have been “many difficulties experienced with the delivery of postal votes” across the country.

BBC Scotland has spoken to a number of people who are concerned they have not received their postal vote – including people going on holiday who will not be home until after the election.

Royal Mail said it had investigated concerns over the delivery of postal votes in some areas but had found no backlogs in any of its offices in Scotland.

The EMB co-ordinates and supports the work of returning officers and other local authority officials in the running of council, Scottish and UK elections.

EMB Scotland convenor Malcolm Burr said electoral returning officers need reliable print supplies and a “predictable and reliable” service from the Royal Mail in order for postal voting to be a “viable option”

He said: “There have been and remain issues with both suppliers and with Royal Mail across Scotland which the electoral community are dealing with as best we can.

“It should be noted that the legal and logistical timetable for this election is very tight, exacerbated in Scotland by the holiday period commencing in many areas at the end of this week.”

Mr Burr said over 25% of voters now choose to vote via post.

“The EMB believes that there is a need for a major review of capacity and systems after the Election. That view is shared across the electoral community.

“We are very much aware that some electors remain without a postal ballot at this point and we are working with returning officers, suppliers and Royal Mail to expedite delivery as quickly as possible,” he said.