§ Mr. WigginTo ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Department for Constitutional Affairs what contingency arrangements have been made for casting votes at an election in the event of there being a civil emergency such as a foot and mouth outbreak. [185207]
§ Mr. LeslieThe arrangements for counting votes are the responsibility of the relevant Returning Officer. Guidance on appropriate actions in the event of various emergencies (such as security threats, riot, flood, fire, etc) is issued to Returning Officers before each parliamentary election. Special guidance related to the foot and mouth outbreak was issued before the last general election. An assessment of the need for further advice would be made in the light of the circumstances and the nature of the emergency.