Electronic voting machines?

VOTERS are being asked their views on changes to the electoral system which could include extending the franchise and electronic voting.

The Scottish Government has published a consultation seeking opinions on the way in which MSPs and local councillors are elected.

Ministers are considering introducing “innovative” voting methods, with electronic voting machines and internet or mobile phone voting put forward as two possible options.

The consultation proposes extending the franchise in Scottish Parliament and local government elections to include everyone legally resident in Scotland.

Another issue under consideration is changing the order in which candidates’ names appear on the ballot paper at local government elections to improve fairness.

The consultation notes that the current system, under which names are listed alphabetically by surname, could discriminate against those further down the paper and puts forward alternative options such as the randomisation or rotation of names.

Views are also being sought on supporting gender balance among elected officials and on the term length for the Scottish Parliament and local government.

Parliamentary Business Minister Joe Fitzpatrick said: “Our voting systems have remained broadly unchanged for over 100 years and now is a good time to think about modernising and innovation.”