· Government policy on electoral accessibility seemingly at odds with itself
· Efficiencies must not undermine confidence in the system
Following a debate in the House of Lords on online voter registration, Lord Empey said:
“I will welcome any move to make our electoral system more accessible and encourage voter registration, but I believe that the Government policy is at odds with itself at present.
“I think that there is a contradiction in the Government saying they are implementing a system that will hopefully encourage more people to register, while starting to close electoral offices in Northern Ireland which will make the system less accessible.
“We have an acceptance of the impartiality and professionalism of the electoral office system in Northern Ireland. I do not want to see anything done that would undermine this.
“We have something that is precious, that is working and that is universally accepted. I sincerely hope that, while a drive for efficiency is always to be welcomed, no damage is done to the reputation or impartiality of the service.”