HC Deb 15 December 2003 vol 415 cc736-7W
Lady Hermon:

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what assessment he has made of the impact of alternative voting methods in Northern Ireland. [143816]

Mr. Spellar:

The Government are always ready to look at alternative voting methods if they lead to a more effective electoral system. However, before considering any alternative methods we would need to be sure that they would not compromise our anti-fraud measures.

Lady Hermon:

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what plans he has to introduce pilot schemes for electronic counting of votes in future (a) local government, (17) Assembly, (c) Westminster and (d) European Parliament elections; and if he will make a statement. [144007]

Mr. Spellar:

Following the recent Assembly elections we will be talking to interested parties to ascertain their views on ensuring that election counts are efficient and effective as possible.