Postal ballots reform pledge after delays

Ministers are promising to overhaul postal ballots after complaints about confusing voting forms and widespread delivery delays.

The Government just made its deadline to deliver 14 million postal ballot forms in time for the 10 June poll after printing problems. Further glitches have not been ruled out and voters are urged to return the forms as early as possible.

Constitutional Affairs Minister Chris Leslie said he was considering changes to the system, including scrapping the requirement for a witness to sign the form and ensuring each individual in a household was registered in advance.

"The proof of the pudding will be in turnout," he said.

"The point is to make it easier to vote and to boost turnout. If it doesn't work and there is no proof it is effective, we will have to look at other options."