Calls for an independent elections body

Former election candiate wants system change

A candidate who stood at the last general election is calling for the establishment of an independent elections body.

Louise Whitelegg stood for Ayre and Michael in 2016, where during the count 206 votes weren npt tallied and those counting were allowed to take a 'pizza break'.

She is calling for a formal office to be established to give direction and advice on elections, instead of the Attorney General's Office which she believes has a conflict of interest.

The government has recently launched a consultation on electoral reform, where the role of returning officers is under the spotlight among other things.

Mrs Whitelegg says technology could help iron out the majority of issues.