THE recent decision by the Bolton Labour Group to demand an apology from David Greenhalgh regarding the concerns surrounding the Crompton by-election is extremely disappointing.

Whilst the Tories have much to apologise for, asking for an investigation into the way 300 postal vote applications were put in en-bloc just before the deadline is not one of them. Cllr Harkin, Cllr Peel and Cllr Thomas are ignoring the fundamental facts of the matter — that it is highly unusual and questionable for a single individual to present so many names en-bloc to be registered.

The three councillors in their letter state that they "categorically do not collect postal votes, but instead remind people to post them back on time", so why do they refuse to acknowledge that 300 names being delivered in one go is in need of investigating?

Postal voting is a vital part of our democracy, allowing people who would otherwise be unable to attend a polling station for whatever reason to have a say in the democratic process. But when activity occurs that seems out of the ordinary then it is only right that it is investigated properly.

Anyone who has questions or concerns regarding the democratic process should feel confident and comfortable enough to come forward and make their concerns known to the relevant authorities. Cllr Peel and co's attempts to silence people with concerns shows a clear disregard for democracy. It is yet another attempt by the Labour group to prevent themselves being questioned and held to account by the people of Bolton and this has to end.

If you believe that your registration to vote was made under undue pressure from an individual or group of individuals; if you feel that someone may have registered a postal vote on your behalf without permission; or if someone in your home or local community is using the threat of mental or physical abuse to force you to vote a particular way, we urge you to contact the police immediately on 101.

Kev Walsh

Chairman

Bolton Liberal Democrats