New laws since November 2023 bring changes that simplify the offence of undue influence. Undue influence is when a person has been made to vote in a certain way, or not vote at all.
These changes apply to:
- Local elections in England
- Police and Crime Commissioner elections in England
- General elections including UK recall petitions
The changes that have been introduced will make it simpler for the Police to take action on allegations of undue influence.
This will include offences of both direct and indirect influence, taking place before and after an election.
The changes apply to all campaign activity, which includes printed material and intimidation that takes place inside or outside a polling station.
The ability to impose prison sentences or fines will also help to deter intimidation of candidates and campaigners.