Briefing:Local Elections 2019 From: Emma Hoddinott For attention of: All Party Officers Published: 30th January 2019 Last updated: 8th February 2019 Printed: 22nd November 2024 Other formats: Print This briefing details a new online process to help local parties with administration of selections as well as an updated guide for those interested in standing as Labour & Co-operative Councillors. Many local Labour Parties are already well underway with selections for next year’s local elections. If someone is selected as a Labour Party candidate they can apply for the Co-operative Party endorsement so they can stand as a Labour & Co-operative candidate. Last year the London Party Council trialled online applications for candidates, and following its success, it’s now being made available to all party regions for the 2019 local elections. This model selection process will be supported by Head Office, maintains decision making at a local level but reduces the administrative burden on local officers. There is also a local election briefing available on becoming a Co-operative Councillor, which you can share with interested candidates. Online Process Step 1: Online Registration and validation Rather than complete a paper form which needs to be returned to the local secretary, candidates are instead able to complete a short application online, including a short statement on why they wish to be a Labour and Co-operative candidate. Once this application has been received it will be checked by Head Office to make sure that the candidate is up to date with their membership fees. Step 2: Details sent to Branches & Party Councils for approval After these initial checks, Head Office will send the application to the relevant branch and party council. The branch or party council may put support for candidates to a meeting of all members or delegates, or alternatively can authorise the secretary, chair or a panel of 2-3 to approve candidates on their behalf. If appropriate, the branch or party council may wish to conduct interviews with candidates or ask them to address a meeting. If the branch or party council agrees that a candidate may stand as Labour and Co-operative, this does not automatically mean that they are entitled to financial support from the Co-operative Party, and a decision on campaign donations may be made later by the Party Council. The branch or party council will be asked to inform Head Office of its decision as soon as possible after their meeting. Step 3: Candidates notified of outcome The candidate will be informed on whether they have been authorised to stand as Labour and Co-operative shortly after the meeting. This may be either the branch, party council or Head Office. Where a candidate has been endorsed and all candidates in the ward are Labour and Co-operative, they will receive a certificate and a campaign pack from Head Office in time for nominations and can use the joint description on the ballot paper. Where a candidate has been endorsed in a multi-member ward with candidates who are Labour-only, they will receive a campaign pack from Head Office and be able to use the joint logo on their campaign materials. They will appear on the ballot paper solely as Labour but will still be recognised as Labour and Co-operative councillors should they get elected. Local Party Selection Processes If a local party branch or council accepts applications locally and they are approved then they can notify Head Office of their decision using the following form. These candidates do not have to also fill in the online form. We would encourage local parties to submit this information as soon as they can, so we can provide support during the campaign and the candidates receive their certificate and campaign pack in time. Download the notification form Short Guide for Candidates There is an updated short guide which explains the benefits of being a Co-op Councillors and the process for interested candidates. Download Guide Action Points Read about the new process and ensure your region has a process for endorsing candidates For more information Local Government Officer Emma Hoddinott Resources Short Guide for Candidates Local Election Hub