A serious breach of electoral law has triggered police involvement in Tamworth after it was alleged that election results were posted on social media before the formal declaration.
Alleged Premature Post
It is claimed that a post on the Wilnecote Reform – Stonydelph/Quarry Hill/Hockley Facebook page shared the outcome of the local election before it was officially announced. The post, which has since been deleted, stated that Reform UK had won all nine seats in the election held last week.
Election Outcome
The election across nine wards saw Reform UK secure every seat, causing Labour to lose its majority on the council, which subsequently fell into no overall control.
Official Response
Stephen Gabriel, Returning Officer for Tamworth Borough Council, confirmed the incident. He said: 'We were made aware that the outcome of the Tamworth local election was posted on the Wilnecote Reform – Stonydelph/Quarry Hill/Hockley Facebook page before being confirmed or announced.'
He added: 'Section 66 of the Representation of the People Act 1983 outlines the secrecy requirements of the count. If found guilty of an offence, a fine or a prison sentence of six months could be ordered.'
Mr Gabriel continued: 'We took immediate action and called the current Reform councillor forward to discuss, ask for the post to be removed and reminded of the secrecy requirements of the count. This is a very serious issue, and it was made clear that we will report to the Single Point of Contact at Staffordshire Police.'
Police Involvement
A Staffordshire Police spokesperson said: 'We're aware of reports involving the early publishing of information relating to the result of the Tamworth Borough Council local election today (Friday 8 May). We are continuing to liaise with the local authority and the Electoral Commission as part of our enquiries.'
Reform UK have been approached for comment.
