Election probe over 'early publishing' of result

Police are investigating a potential breach of electoral law after a Reform UK social media page allegedly shared the result of Tamworth's local election, before it was formally declared.

A since-deleted post on the Wilnecote Reform – Stonydelph/Quarry Hill/Hockley Facebook page, said the party had won all nine seats contested in the Tamworth Borough Council election, ahead of the official announcement.

Staffordshire Police said it was aware of reports involving the "early publishing of information" relating to election results in Tamworth.

A spokesperson said they were working with the council and the Electoral Commission. Reform have been approached for a response.

The election in nine wards took place on Thursday and saw Labour lose a majority on the council, which fell into no overall control.

Stephen Gabriel, the borough council's returning officer, said they were made aware that the outcome of the local election was posted on the Wilnecote Reform Facebook page, before it was officially confirmed or announced.

"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," he said.

"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."

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service, which covers councils and other public service organisations.

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