Following Reform UK’s report alleging family voting in the Gorton and Denton by-election, the police have stated that there is no evidence to support these claims. Democracy Volunteers, an election observer group, had raised concerns about high levels of family voting, which involves voters conferring or colluding to influence voting decisions.
Nigel Farage, from the party that did not win the election, highlighted these allegations and indicated that Reform UK had reported instances of family voting to the authorities. Despite Reform UK’s candidate coming in second place in the election, the Green Party emerged victorious. Greater Manchester Police, in a statement, confirmed that their investigation found no intent to influence or prevent individuals from voting during the by-election.
The police clarified that the observers from Democracy Volunteers did not witness any behavior indicating direct coercion or instruction on how to vote. They emphasized the importance of proving such offenses under the law. Despite reviewing CCTV footage and speaking to polling station officials, no evidence supporting the claims of family voting was found.
Disputes over family voting arose on the night of the by-election, with Democracy Volunteers reporting instances of this practice in several polling stations. Officials questioned why these claims were not raised earlier in the day. Following the police investigation, the Green Party leader dismissed the allegations, citing a lack of evidence and suggesting media sensationalism.
The police reiterated that without concrete descriptions of suspects and corroborating evidence, they could not pursue the case further. Despite efforts to gather information from Democracy Volunteers and polling stations, no actionable evidence was provided. The authorities have shared their findings with relevant electoral bodies and closed the investigation.
