Question to the Cabinet Office:
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office, what plans he has to ensure that the appropriate provision of personal protective equipment used during the covid-19 outbreak is provided to poll staff ahead of the May 2021 local elections.
Primary legislation states that the elections will go ahead in May 2021.
We continue to work closely with the electoral community, including electoral suppliers, and public health bodies to resolve challenges and ensure everyone will be able to cast their vote safely and securely - and in a way of their choosing.
Measures are planned to support absent voting at short notice. Guidance will be published in good time ahead of the polls and this matter will be kept under review. The House will be kept updated.
The Government has also engaged with the Parliamentary Parties Panel to ensure that views from political parties are taken on board.