What Are The Local Elections?
This Thursday, 3 May 2018, elections will take place with 150 local authorities in England. Every region of England and all 32 boroughs of London are included in the elections.
Voters in Watford, Hackney, Lewisham, Newham and Tower Hamlets will also choose a new local authority mayor, or “mini mayor”.
Voters in South Yorkshire will be choosing a “metro mayor” for the first time, that will become known as the Sheffield City Region Mayor.
What Am I Voting For?
In the local elections, you get to vote for who you want to be in control of local authority positions, such as councils. Local authorities are responsible for the public services in your area, from public transport, housing and planning, to fire and public safety, social care, and rubbish collection.
How Do I Vote?
If you are eligible to vote, and registered before 17 April, you can vote at your local polling station between 7am and 10pm on Thursday 3 May. If you are entitled to vote, you will have received a polling card with details of the election and how to vote.
Unless you are a resident of Woking, Gosport, Bromley, Watford or Swindon, you will not be required to show ID in order to vote. If you are a resident of one of these exceptions, refer to your polling card for information.
How Are The Winners Elected?
Local councillors are elected under the “first past the post” electoral system. Mayoral elections use the supplementary vote system. Under the SV system, voters can choose a first and second choice candidate they would like as mayor.
When Will The Results Be Revealed?
Results will start to be announced after midnight, with most results being announced between 2am and 4am on Friday 4 May. The last results will be revealed during the day on the 4 May.
Stay tuned to speakerpolitics.co.uk and @speakerpolitics for coverage of the local elections.
