MEP Voting Reforms Criticised

Ulster European MPs who resign or die in office will not be replaced through a by-election system, in plans brought forward by the Northern Ireland Office.

Recommendations by the NIO have faced opposition from the Electoral Commission, the body responsible for overseeing the democratic process.

Despite this, officials acting for the Secretary of State are expected to push ahead with their provisions for the eventuality.

Under NIO proposals, an MEP who preternaturally leaves office would not prompt a by-elect for the seat, and instead be replaced by a party colleague.

When consulted the Electoral Commission had suggested an alternative system.

Commission officials proposed a list system similar to other regions.

This would allow the electorate to view a list of possible substitutes prior to polling day.

This suggestion was made as part of a consultation process - in which all but one political party broadly supported the government's plan.

The Electoral Commission's Cahir Hughes would not be drawn on criticising the NIO's process, only insisting the commission's system was 'preferrable'.

It is thought the NIO decided against the Electoral Commission's plan as it still allowed parties to change the substitute list after polling day.

Unionist MEP Jim Allister has blasted the NIO's plans, branding it as a "charter for abuse".

(PR/JM)