Home   Kent   News   Article

Euro elections in Kent see potential voters threatening to stay away from polling stations

It's been dubbed the Euro election that could potentially change the county's political landscape.

But with just 24 hours to go before the polling booths open, many of us are expected to leave our voting slips at home.

A poll of 100 potential voters conducted by the KM Group revealed nearly two-thirds were not preparing to mark their cross on the ballot paper.

Ballot box. Stock pic
Ballot box. Stock pic

It's been claimed this year's vote could lead to a purple wave in favour of UKIP, despite a number of recent negative stories claiming racism among supporters.

At stake nationally are 73 seats - 10 of which are in the south east, the region that encompasses Kent and Medway - and the chance to represent the European Parliament for the next five years.

But of 100 voters questioned in Chatham high street, 61% said they wouldn't be voting tomorrow.

Just 29% said a definite yes, while a further 10% weren't sure.

Tom, a charity fundraiser from Chatham, said he would definitely be casting his vote.

Voters will be having their say on who sits in the European Parliament
Voters will be having their say on who sits in the European Parliament

He said: "I feel like it's my duty to do it. I can't complain if I don't vote.

"I know we're represented in Europe and people are looking out for our benefits on behalf of other people back here. It's a bit more representative of voters.

"I think it's important but people need to understand more about it. It's all very well saying we need more people out there but people aren't voting because they don't know what they're voting for."

Kay, a full-time mum, said she wouldn't be taking part.

She said: "All I really know is the name, I don't know anything about it other than that.

"I don't think I'll be the only person not voting.

Click the logo above to visit our special report on the 2014 European election

They need to make it more public so everyone's more aware of it. Posters, TV adverts, there's loads of different ways it could be made more public."

Vanessa, a carer from Chatham, wasn't sure.

She said: "I don't follow it. They don't act on anything. I think a load of people would vote more if they followed through with their promises.

"They don't do anything for us. They say they're going to do this and do that but none of them do anything.

The last Euro election was in 2009
The last Euro election was in 2009

"Why don't they help the British people."

In the last election, in 2009, the Conservatives had the largest share of the seats, with four, while UKIP and the Lib Dems held two each and the Greens and Labour both won one.

For a full list of candidates, click here.

Close This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies.Learn More