Political apathy revealed as “myth”
The idea that the electorate is weary of politics is a “myth”, according to the body which oversees elections in the UK.
The Electoral Commission estimates that 14.5 million political conversations are held each a day.
In a new survey, it found that 57 per cent of the population took part in at least one discussion about local issues a day.
Areas of strong concern were cleanliness of the local neighbourhood, levels of council tax, local schools and public transport.
The survey, counterpoint to prevailing wisdom, seems to suggest that it is the institutions of politics rather than the issues that people feel less confident about.
Sixty-eight per cent of people said that they had never contacted a politician of any type.
Commenting on the survey, the Electoral Commission’s chairman Sam Younger said: “This research shows that political discussion is alive and well, particularly when it comes to the local issues that affect us every day.
“On June 10th, individuals can make those conversations they’ve had over the year count by casting their votes and influencing those issues that matter most to them.”
Politicians of all parties are worried about a potential low turnout in the forthcoming European, local and London mayoral elections.
Some opinion polls have predicted turnout below 30 per cent.
The all-postal ballot pilot for 14 million voters in the North and Midlands is part of an attempt to combat low turnout.
