Commission statement on candidate conduct and disqualification

9 May 2019 12:34 PM

“There is a responsibility for everyone involved in elections – whether as campaigners, candidates or voters – to engage in mutually respectful debate. It is extremely disappointing to see the offensive and irresponsible abuse which has been directed at Jess Phillips MP.

“Under current law there are limited grounds to disqualify an individual from standing for election. The laws that disqualify candidates are set out by Parliament and enforced by the police, so any changes would be for Parliament to make. We stand ready to provide advice on how any such changes might work. ”

The National Police Chiefs Council, working with the Crown Prosecution Service and the Electoral Commission have written guidance documents for candidates and campaigners about harassment and intimidation at elections. This guidance is available on our website.