Efforts to combat electoral fraud in city are revealed

Election

Efforts to combat electoral fraud in Peterborough have been revealed.

Cambridgeshire Constabulary has again set up a dedicated team to work jointly with Peterborough City Council to investigate any allegations of malpractice. The council has also, like previous years, opened an election fraud hotline (01733 452277) for people to report any concerns.

Police will investigate any reports of corrupt activity with allegations being treated seriously and prosecutions brought if evidence of wrongdoing is uncovered. There will also be an increased police presence in the city on polling day.

Acting returning officer Gillian Beasley said: “People are entitled to use their vote with confidence and there will be no let up in Peterborough to investigate anyone attempting to fraudulently influence the election process.

“We are working closely with the police and want to send the message loud and clear that attempts to intimidate or cause fear to voters will not be tolerated.”

Postal voters are required to provide their date of birth and signature on a postal voting statement when returning their postal ballot papers. By law, the acting returning officer is then required to undertake personal identifier checks.

A publicity campaign has also been launched to remind people of the signs to look out for if they suspect fraud. Visit: www.peterborough.gov.uk/council/ elections/.