THE letter below was sent to Nothern Voices yesterday, it is a copy of the letter originally sent to the editor of ROCHDALE ONLINE. It was published on the ROCHDALE ONLINE website yesterday. We re-print this letter for the benefit of our readers in order to raise awareness of a problem improper conduct by some in the electoral process. We understand that a letter on the same issue has been sent to the Rochdale Observer. We have the author, Carl Faulkner's permission to reprint this letter.
Dear Editor,
As I read the recent article ‘Voters urged to be on alert to the
risk of electoral fraud’, the old adage ‘action speaks louder than
words’, came to mind.
All the regulations, telephone numbers and guidance is of no use if those involved are keen to brush it under the carpet.
For that is what has happened here in Rochdale. Anti-fraud
documentation mysteriously disappeared from a Rochdale polling station
(Spotland and Falinge ward) before the count took place. None of the
candidates were informed; the Electoral Commission were
not informed; neither were the police; councillors were not interested.
It was only by chance that I actually discovered what had happened.
And so, I duly informed those tasked with investigating such matters.
The Electoral Commission incorrectly told me there was nothing they
could do. The police decided not to investigate
because the council had told them they were treating the missing
anti-fraud documentation as lost property. The council had no issues
with the person tasked with overseeing the election (Acting Returning
Officer). Job done. Panic over.
If anyone has any concerns about potential electoral fraud, do not
think that by simply reporting the matter, a concerted effort will be
made to get to the bottom of it. Be prepared to hold those responsible
to task.
Regards
Carl Faulkner
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