Edinburgh council takes emergency action so residents without postal ballots can vote
It comes as First Minister John Swinney said he was "troubled" by delays in some Scots receiving their postal votes
Last updated 28th Jun 2024
Edinburgh City Council has taken urgent action to ensure people who have not received postal votes can still have their say in next week's General Election.
The local authority has taken the unusual step of setting up an emergency centre where locals who have yet to receive their ballot can have one reissued, or can even cast their vote ahead of July 4.
It comes as Scottish First Minister John Swinney said he was "troubled" by delays in some Scots receiving their postal votes.
The Electoral Management Board for Scotland has already been reported as saying here have been "many difficulties experienced with the delivery of postal votes" across the country.
Highlighting there could be a "lot of seats that are very close contests" in Scotland, SNP leader Mr Swinney raised fears this could potentially impact results.
He said: "In an election where there will be a number of marginal contests in Scotland, because there is a really intense contest going on here in Scotland, I am worried people will be disenfranchised."
In response to the situation, the City of Edinburgh Council announced that it was taking "urgent steps".
Those voters who have not yet received their postal votes can go to the City Chambers and have their voting pack reissued.
A polling booth will also be set up their for those who wish to cast their vote there and then.
Voters are being reminded to bring photographic identity with them to use the facility, which will operate until 5pm on Friday, and will again be open between 9am and 5pm on both Saturday and Sunday.
Extra resources made available
Returning Officer for Edinburgh, Paul Lawrence, said: "I appreciate the concerns of voters on this issue and my absolute priority is to ensure everyone has the opportunity to exercise their democratic right to vote in this General Election.
"That's why we've taken the decision to put in extra resources and open the City Chambers this weekend."
He told people: "Please only attend if you haven't received your postal vote and you're going on holiday or won't be at home next week."
Mr Lawrence added: "The timing of this election has been challenging as have other circumstances beyond our control, but our teams are working hard to ensure it passes off as smoothly and successfully as possible."