Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has cautioned councils that they face a “race against time” to prepare for the local elections scheduled for May, amid concerns over administrative readiness and staffing pressures.
Speaking at a party briefing on Monday, Starmer urged local authorities to ensure polling stations, voter registration systems, and ballot delivery mechanisms are fully operational.
He stressed the importance of maintaining confidence in the democratic process, particularly in light of expected higher turnout in key wards.
“This is a critical moment for local democracy,” Starmer said. “Councils must be prepared, organised, and ready to deliver smooth and secure elections. There is very little time left to make sure everything is in place.”
The warning comes as several councils have reported challenges including staff shortages, budget constraints, and logistical issues with ballot printing and distribution. Electoral Commission guidance has highlighted these pressures, noting that preparations for the May elections must be finalised by early March to avoid delays.
Labour sources said Starmer’s comments were intended to underscore the party’s commitment to fair and efficient elections, while signalling to local authorities that urgent action is required to mitigate potential disruptions.
Opposition parties have welcomed the call for preparedness but stressed that long-term reforms are also needed to strengthen the administration of local elections and ensure accessibility for voters across the country.
With just months to go, councils will be under intense pressure to meet the statutory deadlines for nomination papers, polling station allocation, and staffing, as local authorities aim to avoid the kind of delays and confusion that have occasionally plagued previous elections.
