Police investigate sale of Scottish referendum votes on eBay
Listings have now been removed but not before at least one sale was completed
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Police are investigating after it appears a number of people have attempted to sell their votes for the Scottish independence referendum online.
The listings appeared on eBay offering buyers the chance to own a ‘unique piece of Scottish history’ because, in the words of one seller: ‘I for one, do not give a flying monkey about any of this.’
eBay has subsequently removed the listings from the site and the Electoral Commission confirmed it was aware of the incident, STV reported.
A Glaswegian individual, using the moniker ‘chrisoc1987’ claimed he had sold their vote for £1.04, writing: “This is my very own unique piece of British History! It is my personal YES or NO VOTE for the upcoming Scottish Referendum in September.”
He continued: “This could be the deciding vote. Who knows? I am a hard working Scottish citizen with a house, a gorgeous wife and two beautiful kids who are my world.
"This vote will not change anything in our lives so I have decided not to vote my opinion but instead..... ONE OF YOURS! Happy Bidding"
A listing, believed to be located in the Scottish borders, placed a £10 reserve on all bids for the vote - promising the money would go to charity.
Speaking to The Independent, a Police Soctland spokesperson said: "Our policing arrangements for the referendum are well in hand and will be appropriate and proportionate.
"Police Scotland’s priority is to ensure public safety and security. We will respond appropriately to any issues which arise.
"We are investigating these incidents and therefore cannot comment on the outcome of these incidents until all inquires are concluded. Where other incidents are reported they will be investigated and appropriate action taken. "
eBay, in a statement given to STV, said: “eBay does not permit the sale of certain items.”
Continuing: "The Electoral Commission has an agreement in place where we remove upon request any items posted on eBay that relate to an individual’s vote where the Commission has concerns that this could lead to the law being broken."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments