37.—(1) In rule 59 of the local elections rules, after paragraph (1)(b) (immediately before the word “or” following it), there shall be inserted—
“(ba)for the opening of a sealed packet of the completed corresponding number lists used at a local government election and at a Scottish parliamentary election in the custody of the returning officer for a Scottish Parliament constituency (“CRO”);”.
(2) For paragraph (2) of rule 59 of the local election rules there is substituted—
“(2) An order for the opening of—
(a)a sealed packet of the completed corresponding number lists or of the certificates or for the inspection of any counted ballot papers or information held on an electronic copy of information made pursuant to rule 57(1) in the custody of the proper officer of the council; or
(b)a sealed packet of the completed corresponding number lists used at a local government election and at a Scottish parliamentary election in the custody of the CRO,
may be made by an election court.”.
(3) In paragraph (6) of rule 59 of the local election rules, after “council” there is inserted “or by the CRO”.
(4) After paragraph (8) of rule 59 of the local election rules there is added—
“(9) Paragraph (8) does not apply to a sealed packet of the completed corresponding number lists used at a local government election and at a Scottish parliamentary election in respect of which an order has been made under rule 69 of the Scottish Parliamentary Election Rules contained in Schedule 2 to the Scottish Parliament (Elections etc.) Order 2015.”.