POLICE are investigating whether Lewisham Labour Party broke election law in Downham.
The party is accused of issuing a leaflet during last month’s Downham by-election which broke the 1983 Representation of the People Act.
The leaflet referred to “exit polls”, claiming they showed “the BNP winning in Downham” and warning: “It’s more important than ever to vote Labour today.”
Under the act, statements referring to how people have voted are not allowed to be published before a poll closes.
The BNP finished fourth in the election, which was won by two candidates from the Liberal Democrats.
Lib Dem leader Councillor Chris Maines said: “By referring to an exit poll and distributing this leaflet on polling day, the Labour Party clearly tried to swing this election in their favour by any method possible.
“I think this is a clear breach of electoral law and I hope the police take action.”
Labour Party leader Councillor Alan Hall said: “All parties claim they are close to winning - the Lib Dems do it all the time."
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