Court to order election recount

Julie Edge has petitioned the court after alleged irregularities in this year's election and result declaration. 

A full recount of the ballots from Onchan for this year's general election is set to be ordered by the high court.

Julie Edge has petitioned the court after alleged irregularities in this year's election and result declaration.

Appearing before First Deemster Andrew Corlett, Ms Edge and deputy returning officer Jeremy Callin agreed to a recount, which will be held within Douglas Courthouse. 

Ms Edge's petition to the court claims that 79 verified ballot papers cannot be accounted for, that official election records contain contradictory figures and that candidates were not given chance for a recount to be requested. 

Opening proceedings, Deemster Corlett said it was an 'unprecedented situation' for a Manx election. 

Kathryn Clough, representing Mr Callin, said that it is not thought that the process would alter the result of the election but that they 'do recognise there are genuine questions that have been asked'. 

The parties have agreed, subject to the proper order being written, that a full recount should be held in Douglas Courthouse under the supervision of chief registrar Dr Stuart Quayle.

All candidates in the election will be entitled to attend, as well as a count officer for each candidate. 

Addressing the court, Ms Edge said: "It is the integrity of the electoral process that I am concerned about and it is that integrity that is so important to our constitution and the people of this Island."

Attorney General Walter Wannenburgh KC also spoke and said a recount would be 'helpful' and needs to be done 'quickly', while agreeing with both parties that there is no allegation of any corruption of illegal practices. 

Ms Edge will have to pay a £500 security payment. The recount will likely be held on an evening yet to be determined at Douglas Courthouse. 

Mrs Clough and Mr Callin, following a request from the media, had sought to prevent the media being in attendance. 

However Ms Edge said she had no objection and Deemster Corlett said he could see 'no reason' for that to be the case and that it would be a 'good idea' as it 'puts away any doubt that the system is transparent'. 

Ms Edge is required to file her petition and a statement of truth by 4pm on Monday, after which the order should be issued by Deemster Corlett for the recount to occur under the supervision of Dr Quayle.