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Scottish Parliament election to have daytime vote count

Getty Images A woman leans over a table where a large pile of ballot papers are being pourer from a black box. The woman, wearing a pink hooded jumper, is in a large hall with counting desks and an empty stand of orange seats in the background.Getty Images
Counts at the last Holyrood election were staggered due to Covid-19 restrictions

Votes cast in next year's Scottish Parliament election will be counted the day after polls close, rather than overnight.

The Electoral Management Board for Scotland said the measure would reduce costs and increase public engagement.

The election is scheduled for 7 May 2026, with counting to begin at 09:00 the following day.

A daytime count was also held for the last Holyrood election, in 2021, but this was due to Covid restrictions and the process was staggered over two days.

Traditionally, counting had been done overnight immediately after the polls close.

Malcolm Burr, convener of the electoral board said: "Counting during the day allows the use of well-rested staff with quick access to more resources, people and support facilities.

"Our counts are always accurate, but working in the day removes some risks, reduces costs and lets us declare the results when more people are engaged."

The board also announced that postal ballots would be issued on 15 April.

Scots will have until 20 April to register to vote in the election, with the deadline for postal vote applications the following day.

Proxy vote applications must be submitted by 28 April to be accepted in time for the election.