Blog post for the Lawyers in Local Government weekly newsletter by ADSO Chair, John Austin.
So the Prime Minister has decided on a general election in June. How many of us saw that coming? Being recently retired and hoping never to work on another election again (thus currently not answering my phone!) my sympathies immediately turned to my former elections, democratic services and legal colleagues who will have to deliver the national election just weeks after the locals in May.
Colleagues in London were anticipating an election free year but will probably now be in shock at the realisation that they are suddenly in election mode.
Being chair of ADSO, my focus is on the challenges facing democratic services staff within authorities. Some have dual election and democratic services roles, a number as Deputy Returning Officers. Others will support their election teams in a variety of different ways. Most will be impacted by the election in some shape or form. On a positive note, many councils will look to reduce the number of meetings prior to 8 June to enable councillors to go out canvassing – a small consolation for some.
Do politicians (and indeed civil servants) ever consider the workload and pressure placed on those involved in delivering two elections in such a short space of time I wonder? We had a similar situation last year with the EU referendum shortly after the local elections. I know first hand that the AEA does its best to make Ministers aware of the practical implications. But local government always delivers even under the most extreme circumstances, so politicians expect it every time.
I wish all involved the very best of luck. As always, you will do a great job.