Monday, September 27, 2004

Sunday Telegraph Letters
Date: 26 September 2004

Sir,
In his article on the proposed regional government for the North East, Christopher Booker suggests that the Electoral Commissioners overruled the advice of officials in taking the decision to designate the lead campaign organisation for the "No" side, "in a way that plays into the hands of Government" (News, Sept 19).

It had in fact been agreed before the referendum period that the commissioners would take that decision independently of staff, and no advice was therefore provided.

All information submitted by the potential designated organisations was given directly to commissioners. In the view of the commissioners, North East Says No Ltd represented to the greatest extent those campaigning for a "No" outcome.
From:
Sam Younger, Chairman,
The Electoral Commission,
London SW1

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Is this true,if so were you informed of this decision?

It had in fact been agreed before the referendum period that the commissioners would take that decision independently of staff, and no advice was therefore provided.

All information submitted by the potential designated organisations was given directly to commissioners.

Anonymous said...

In view of the unsatisfactory operation of The Electoral Commission, (why have administrative and advisory staff, if it is all going to be ignored so that the Commission-ers can reduce the process to a shambles). Surely the commisioners should be required to justify their decision and show what evidence has been received and indeed considered.

Anything short of full declaration by The Commission will smack of underhand dealing and undue influences being at work.

If The Electoral Commissiion can stoop to such unclear tactics in the NE voting procedures, one is etitled to ask what chance of even handedness in a Natoinal referendum on the EU constitution, where the stakes will be much higher and the monies will be much more rewarding to those wielding influence.

How will the Commission strike a balance for the people against those paid EU individuals and organisations and indeed the government's publicly funded campign against the views of the vast majority of the people of this country.
I fear for my country.
I remain (anonymous) Michael JO

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