5(1)Functions conferred by this Schedule on the returning officer shall be exercised—U.K.
(a)in each local government area in Scotland, by the person who, under section 41 of the Representation of the People Act 1983 (local government elections in Scotland) is, or may discharge the functions of, the returning officer at an election of councillors for that area,
(b)in each county or county borough in Wales, by the person who is for the time being appointed to act as returning officer for that county or county borough under section 35(1A)(a) of the Representation of the People Act 1983 (local government elections in Wales).
(2)A returning officer may, in writing, appoint one or more persons to discharge all or any of his functions.
(3)It is the returning officer’s general duty at a referendum to do all such acts and things as may be necessary for effectually conducting the referendum in the manner provided by this Schedule.