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People who threaten and intimidate candidates and campaigners during elections will face stronger penalties under new Government proposals. Ministers are set to announce the measures next week as part of efforts to protect democracy from hostile behaviour.
The new proposals aim to ensure no one is deterred from standing for office, following a rise in threats against candidates during the 2024 general election. They will be outlined in a strategy paper focused on safeguarding the UK's election system.
Courts gain tougher powers
Ministers emphasise they want to protect freedom of expression whilst cracking down on threatening behaviour against those competing for votes. Communities minister Rushanara Ali said the measures are essential for maintaining democratic participation.
"We want to ensure our democracy is resilient and thriving, that people are able to engage and participate in our democracy, free from the fear of harassment and intimidation," Ali said. "Harassment and intimidation is completely unacceptable and having a chilling effect on our democracy."
Abuse affects majority of candidates
Courts will be given powers to impose tougher punishments on people who target candidates, campaigners, elected politicians and electoral staff with threatening or hostile behaviour. The punishments could apply to both real-life incidents and online abuse, the Government suggested.
Research by the Electoral Commission revealed that 55 per cent of candidates at the 2024 general election experienced some form of abuse. Activities included slashing candidates' vehicle tyres and targeting their families with threats.
Parliamentary response grows
Ministers have stepped up work to protect elections from interference through the Defending Democracy Taskforce. The taskforce focuses on safeguarding both the electoral process and those involved in it from various forms of intimidation.
In the Commons, Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle is hosting the Speakers' Conference, which examines the growing threats faced by MPs. The conference has warned this hostile environment is having a stifling impact on democratic debate and is dissuading people from standing in parliamentary elections.
(PA/London) Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
