Following anecdotal reports of very high numbers of spoilt ballot papers Tim Montgomerie, Editor of ConservativeHome, has emailed John Maples MP, Returning Officer for the ballot, requesting full transparency:
"Dear John,
It was good to see you at last week's Mainstream meeting. I'm sorry we didn't get a proper chance to talk.
ConservativeHome has been publishing the rankings for MEP candidates today.
As the Returning Officer for the Elections I would be grateful if you could confirm that data for turnout and the number of spolit ballot papers will be published. I've received reports of very high numbers of spoilt ballot papers.
Best wishes,
Tim"
We'll let you know when we get an answer.
