THE FIRST December general election in almost a century has been labelled the “most significant in living memory” and “historic” by the council officer overseeing how it is run in East Hampshire.
The last time voters went to the polls just before Christmas was on Thursday, December 6, 1923 – this time around will also be a Thursday, December 12.
The 1923 result served a cold festive dish for the Conservatives, who were then in government as they are today, as they lost 86 seats, but retained a majority.
And because of Brexit, the election is being viewed as a rerun of the Brexit referendum by some pundits; it was called by Prime Minster Boris Johnson after MPs failed to support his EU Brexit deal.
East Hampshire District Council chief executive and election returning officer for the district Gill Kneller said: “This is the first December general election for almost 100 years, and is being called one of the country’s most significant in living memory. Make sure you do not miss your chance to have your say.”
And as miserable December weather is possible, residents are reminded that postal voting will allow them to vote from the warmth of their own homes.
Ms Kneller said: “With turnout figures often affected by bad weather voters are being advised to sign up for a postal vote that means you can fill in your ballot paper at home and post it ahead of election day at a time that suits you. Or you can vote by proxy, which means you empower someone else to vote on your behalf.”
The council’s election team is also responsible for encouraging a high turnout among voters.
Ms Kneller added: “Our team can help to ensure you don’t miss out on the chance to vote in this historic election.”
The team is already preparing for the snap election; the next scheduled one was due to go ahead on May 5, 2022.
On election day polling stations close at 10pm and the votes will be counted in the Festival Hall in Petersfield; in the past the result has usually been known by about 4am.
The former Conservative MP for the district, Damian Hinds, is now an election candidate. As an MP he gained a 26,000 majority at the last election, but the count could take longer this time if the margin is closer than it was in the previous election.
To vote by post, or proxy, contact the election team on 01730 234350 or email [email protected] for an application form.
Postal vote applications must be returned to the council’s Penns Place offices by 5pm on Tuesday, November 26, and proxy votes by 5pm on Wednesday, December 4.
Residents not registered to vote can register online via the council website, by Tuesday, November 26.
Anyone who would like more information should contact the elections team on 01730 234350.