Full Breakdown
Basingstoke and Deane Council Affirms Commitment to 2026 Local Elections
12/22/2025, 11:47:55 PM
Council's Decision on Local Elections
During a full council meeting on December 19, 2023, Basingstoke and Deane Council Leader, Councillor Paul Harvey, confirmed that the council has the authority to decide whether the local elections scheduled for May 2026 will proceed. This decision must be made by January 15, 2024. The announcement came in response to an amendment proposed by Councillor Simon Minas-Bound, which aimed to oppose the Labour Government's plans to delay the election of a Hampshire and Isle of Wight Mayor until 2028. Councillor Harvey emphasized the importance of maintaining democratic processes, stating, "It is not for this council to cancel democracy."
Support for Upholding Democracy
Several councillors expressed their support for holding the local elections as planned. Councillor McCormick highlighted the necessity of allowing the public to change their representatives every four years, arguing against the imposition of a longer term. Councillor Gavin James stated his intention to resign if the elections were canceled, advocating for the public's right to vote. Councillor Jay Ganesh echoed these sentiments, stressing the need for transparency and accountability to the residents.
Opposition to Delayed Elections
The council voted in favor of an amendment to ensure the 2026 local elections proceed, with 44 votes in support and 8 abstentions. However, some councillors voiced concerns regarding the potential for "political point scoring" in the discussions. Councillor Samuel Carr warned that delaying the mayoral election could hinder economic growth in the region, urging the government to reconsider its decision.
Broader Political Context
In parallel, Liberal Democrat MPs Alex Brewer, Danny Chambers, and Liz Jarvis have called on Hampshire County Council to guarantee that the elections will not be delayed. Following the government's offer to allow councils to request a delay, Winchester MP Danny Chambers reached out to Hampshire County Council leader Councillor Nick Adams-King for assurance that the elections will proceed as scheduled. The MPs stressed that local residents deserve a voice in governance, particularly as the council faces significant budget challenges.
Official Statements & Responses
Councillor Harvey reiterated the council's duty to represent residents' interests and uphold democratic rights. He stated, "We need to have that electoral mandate to be here representing our residents' interests." Meanwhile, Councillor Ganesh emphasized the importance of advocating for accountability, suggesting that the council may need to communicate with the Secretary of State to reaffirm their commitment to the elections.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the support for the elections, some councillors expressed a desire for more time to prepare for the mayoral elections, suggesting that rushing the process could lead to complications. Councillor McCormick and Councillor West voiced their concerns about the need for thorough planning.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It is not for this council to cancel democracy.” — Councillor Paul Harvey, Leader of the Council
- “ Cllr Jay Ganesh added: "We owe it to our residents that their democratic rights are upheld and they are fully informed about what has happened.” — Councillor Jay Ganesh
- “Delaying Hampshire's mayoral election will hold back economic growth, the government must reconsider and bring back the 2026 mayoral elections.” — Councillor Samuel Carr
This situation reflects ongoing tensions regarding local governance and the importance of maintaining electoral integrity in the face of proposed delays.
