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.

The Joint Election Security and Preparedness Unit (JESP) remains active and continues to convene regular cross-government meetings. These meetings are attended by representatives from government departments, relevant technical authorities, the UK intelligence community, devolved administrations, the police, and the Electoral Commission.

At present there are no plans to introduce a Canadian-style ’critical election incident protocol’ given the processes that are already in place. When an election is called, the JESP Unit stands up an Election Cell to monitor and respond to emerging issues, including information incidents. Protecting our democracy is a priority for this Government and following the 2024 general election the JESP Unit will continue to strengthen resilience ahead of future electoral events.

The Joint Election Security and Preparedness Unit (JESP) remains active and continues to convene regular cross-government meetings. These meetings are attended by representatives from government departments, relevant technical authorities, the UK intelligence community, devolved administrations, the police, and the Electoral Commission.

At present there are no plans to introduce a Canadian-style ’critical election incident protocol’ given the processes that are already in place. When an election is called, the JESP Unit stands up an Election Cell to monitor and respond to emerging issues, including information incidents. Protecting our democracy is a priority for this Government and following the 2024 general election the JESP Unit will continue to strengthen resilience ahead of future electoral events.

Given the proximity to the local and general elections, can Ministers give an assurance that the joint election security preparedness unit has all the resources it needs to do the job?

This is a tremendously serious issue. My Department and other Government Departments, led by the Security Minister in the Home Office, are spending a huge amount of time, effort and resource in ensuring the safety of candidates; the safety, security and robustness of the process; and that all those who wish to take part in our democratic functions, in whichever fora they happen to manifest themselves, can do so safely and securely. That is a very firm commitment. The hon. Member will know that we are dealing with that as a serious matter.