'No offences committed', police say following complaint over 'possible breach of electoral regulations' in Stockport
manchestereveningnews.co.ukGreater Manchester Police has concluded 'no offences were committed' following a complaint over a 'possible breach of electoral regulations' in Stockport.
An allegation was made to the council's returning officer, which was in turn passed to the police for investigation. The Manchester Evening News understands concerns were raised the secrecy of postal votes had been compromised at this month's local elections.
GMP have now confirmed an investigation did not uncover any breach of electoral law ahead of the May 4 polls. A spokesperson said: "The returning officer at Stockport council received a complaint which was passed to Greater Manchester Police. "Having looked into the complaint, which was an allegation of a possible breach of electoral regulations, we have found that no offences were committed." READ MORE: Join the FREE Manchester Evening News WhatsApp community The requirement of secrecy is enshrined in law - namely under section 66 of The Representation of the People Act.
This states that anyone involved in the election - including candidates, agents, clerks and officers - 'shall maintain and aid in maintaining the secrecy of voting'.
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