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Written question asked by Lord Pack (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 22 June 2026, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Monday, 6 July 2026. It was answered by Baroness Taylor of Stevenage (Labour) on Monday, 6 July 2026 on behalf of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

Joint Election Security and Preparedness Unit

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government what are the current priorities and remit of the Joint Election Security and Preparedness Unit.

Answer

The Joint Election Security and Preparedness (JESP) Unit is a permanent function which sits jointly between Cabinet Office and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), dedicated to protecting UK elections and referendums and coordinating work across government to respond to issues including protective security, cyber threats and mis and disinformation, and foreign interference as they emerge. During election periods, where appropriate, JESP may stand up an election cell to monitor and respond to security incidents as they emerge.

The UK’s elections, both national and local, remain safe and effective. However, it is clear that the threats to democracy continue to evolve and JESP is working with government partners and key stakeholders towards building capabilities and knowledge across election security ahead of future elections.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL1184
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Joint Election Security Preparedness Unit
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk