Criminal investigation concludes into ‘family voting’ allegation at Gorton and Denton by-election

A criminal investigation into allegations of ‘family voting’ at last month’s Gorton and Denton by-election has concluded with no evidence of wrongdoing, officials have confirmed.

The investigation was carried out under Section 62C of the Representation of the People Act 1983, as amended by the Ballot Secrecy Act 2023. Authorities found no indication that any individual attempted to direct, coerce, or otherwise influence another person on how to vote.

The inquiry began following a criminal report submitted by the Reform UK party, prompted by a public statement from independent observers at Democracy Volunteers.

Investigators spoke to four Democracy Volunteers observers who were present at polling stations on 26 February. Their accounts included observations of multiple voters entering booths together and instances of individuals appearing to look over others’ shoulders while voting.

The observers estimated that such occurrences may have taken place on 32 occasions across 15 polling stations. However, they did not report any verbal instructions or physical behaviour suggesting that one person was directing another’s vote.

An investigation team, led by a senior investigating officer, gathered statements from the observers and reviewed their written records. Officers also spoke to presiding officers at the 15 polling stations in question, as well as the Acting Returning Officer. No additional reports of concern were raised beyond those submitted by Democracy Volunteers.

Police confirmed that no further criminal complaints were received.

Officers stated that, in order to pursue a prosecution, they would require clear evidence identifying potential suspects, along with corroborating material demonstrating intent to influence voting behaviour. However, Democracy Volunteers were unable to provide descriptions or identities of those allegedly involved, nor specific timings of when incidents occurred.

This lack of detail significantly limited further lines of enquiry. Investigators noted that without descriptions or time-stamped voting data, it was not possible to identify individuals through CCTV footage.

As part of the investigation, all 45 polling stations in the Gorton and Denton constituency were contacted regarding CCTV availability. Of these, 41 confirmed that CCTV systems had not been activated on polling day to avoid compromising the secrecy of the ballot, in line with official guidance.

CCTV footage was obtained from three of the remaining four locations - all of which had been visited by Democracy Volunteers. After reviewing the footage and speaking with presiding officers at those sites, investigators found no evidence of anyone directing or coercing voters.

Officials concluded there was no indication of intent to influence or prevent individuals from voting, as defined by the Ballot Secrecy Act 2023.

The findings have been shared with both the Electoral Commission and the Returning Officer. The original complainant has also been informed of the outcome.

Authorities confirmed that, in the absence of evidence meeting the criminal threshold, the investigation has now been formally closed.