The Greater London Authority Elections Rules 2007 No. 3541

Statutory Instruments

2007 No. 3541

LONDON GOVERNMENT

Representation of the people

The Greater London Authority Elections Rules 2007

Made

17th December 2007

Laid before Parliament

18th December 2007

Coming into force

14th January 2008

The Secretary of State makes the following Rules in exercise of the powers conferred by sections 36(2), (2A) and (2B) of the Representation of the People Act 1983 M1 .

In accordance with section 7(1) and (2)(d) of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 M2 he has consulted the Electoral Commission.

Marginal Citations

M1 1983 c. 2. Subsections 36(2A) and (2B) were inserted by paragraph 4(2) of Schedule 3 to the Greater London Authority Act 1999 (c. 29).

M2 2000 c. 41.

Citation, commencement and revocation U.K.

1.—(1) These Rules may be cited as the Greater London Authority Elections Rules 2007 and will come into force on 14th January 2008

(2) The following Rules are revoked—

(a) the Greater London Authority Elections (No.2) Rules 2000 M3 ;

(b) the Greater London Authority Elections (No.2) (Amendment) Rules 2000 M4 ;

(c) the Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2001 M5 ; and

(d) the Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2004 M6 .

Marginal Citations

M3 S.I 2000/427, amended by S.I. 2000/1040, S.I. 2001/3789 and S.I. 2004/227.

M4 S.I. 2000/1040.

M5 S.I. 2001/3789.

M6 S.I 2004/227.

Interpretation U.K.

2.—(1) In these Rules—

“1983 Act” means the Representation of the People Act 1983;

“1999 Act” means the Greater London Authority Act 1999 M7 ;

“2000 Act” means the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 M8 ;

[F1 “2002 Act” means the Police Reform Act 2002;]

“2006 Act” means the Electoral Administration Act 2006 M9 ;

“appropriate form” means, in relation to a particular rule, the form relevant to that rule set out in the Forms Schedule or where more than one form is so set out, the form indicated by the relevant rule as being appropriate to the particular circumstances;

“Assembly constituency” means a constituency area specified in an order made under section 2(4) of the 1999 Act;

“Authority election” means an election, whether at an ordinary election or in the circumstances mentioned in sections 10, 11 or 16 of the 1999 Act (filling a vacancy in an Assembly constituency or the office of Mayor), held under—

(a)

the Constituency Members Election Rules,

(b)

the London Members Election Rules, or

(c)

the Mayoral Election Rules;

“Combination of Polls Regulations” means the Representation of the People (Combination of Polls) (England and Wales) Regulations 2004 M10 ;

“Combined Manual Count Rules” means the Rules in Schedule 8;

“constituency member” has the same meaning as in section 2 of the 1999 Act;

“Constituency Members Election Rules” means the Rules in Schedule 1 or 5;

“CRO” (constituency returning officer) means, in relation to an Assembly constituency and an election, the person (or person fitting the description) for the time being designated by an order under section 35(2B) of the 1983 Act;

“elector”, except where the context provides otherwise, has the same meaning as in section 202 of the 1983 Act;

“election booklet” has the same meaning as in article 7 of the Greater London Authority Elections (Election Addresses) Order 2003 M11 ;

“electronic counting system” means such computer hardware, software and other equipment or services as may be provided by the GLRO to the CRO in accordance with the rules applying at the election, for the purpose of counting the number of ballot papers to verify the ballot paper accounts and to count the votes cast on them;

“European Parliamentary election” has the same meaning as in section 27(1) of the Representation of the People Act 1985 M12 ;

“Forms Schedule” means Schedule 10;

“GLRO” (Greater London returning officer) means the person who is for the time being the proper officer of the Greater London Authority for the purposes of section 35(2C) of the 1983 Act M13 (returning officer at the election of the Mayor and London Members);

“local authority mayoral election” means an election conducted under the Local Authorities (Mayoral Elections) (England and Wales) Regulations 2007 M14 ;

“London Assembly” has the same meaning as in section 2 of the 1999 Act;

“London members” has the same meaning as in section 2 of the 1999 Act;

“London Members Election Rules” means the Rules in Schedule 2 or 6;

“Manual Count Rules” means the Rules in Schedule 4;

“Mayor” means the Mayor of London.

“mayoral by-election” means an election for the Mayor or London held in the circumstances mentioned in section 16 (filling a vacancy in the office of Mayor) of the 1999 Act;

“mayoral election” means an election for the return of the Mayor, whether at an ordinary election or an election held in the circumstances mentioned in section 16 (filling a vacancy in the office of Mayor) of the 1999 Act;

“Mayoral Election Rules” means the Rules in Schedule 3 or 7;

“Notices Schedule “ means the rules in Schedule 9;

“referendum” means a referendum conducted under the Referendum Regulations;

“Referendum Regulations” means the Local Authorities (Conduct of Referendums) (England) Regulations 2007 M15 ;

“relevant registration officer” means the registration officer within the meaning of subsection (3)(a) of section 44 of the 2006 Act, or appointed by an order made under subsection (3)(b) of that section;

“ward” has the same meaning as in paragraph 7(1) of Schedule 2 to the Local Government Act 1972 M16 .

(2) References in these rules—

(a) to the CRO include references to any person appointed by him under subsection (4) of section 35 (returning officers: local elections in England and Wales) of the 1983 Act, and

(b) to the GLRO include references to any person appointed by him under that subsection.

(3) Other expressions used both in these Rules and in Part 1 (the Greater London Authority) of the 1999 Act have the same meaning in these Rules as they have in that Part.

Textual Amendments

F1 Words in rule 2 inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 5(1)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C1 Rule 2 applied (with modifications) (18.2.2012) by The Local Authorities (Conduct of Referendums) (Council Tax Increases) (England) Regulations 2012 (S.I. 2012/444), reg. 1, Sch. 4 para. 1 Table 11 (with reg. 27)

C2 Rule 2(1) modified (3.8.2012) by The Neighbourhood Planning (Referendums) Regulations 2012 (S.I. 2012/2031), regs. 1, 8, 12, 13, Sch. 4 para. 25

Marginal Citations

M7 1999 c.29.

M8 2000 c.41.

M9 2006 c.22.

M10 S.I 2004/294, amended by S.I. 2006/3278 and S.I. 2007/1025.

M11 S.I 2003/1907.

M12 1985 c. 50. The definition was amended by section 3 of the European Communities (Amendment) Act 1986 (c. 58), in consequence of the European Assembly being renamed the European Parliament.

M13 1983 c. 2. Subsection 35(2C) was inserted by paragraph 3(2) of Schedule 3 to the Greater London Authority Act 1999 (c. 29).

M14 SI 2007/1024.

M15 S.I. 2007/2089.

M16 1972 c. 70. Section 102 of the Local Government Act 1985 and section 27 of the Local Government Act 1992 amended paragraph 7(1) of Schedule 2.

Rules for Authority elections U.K.

3.—(1) Subject to rules 4, 5 and 7, Authority elections shall be conducted in accordance with the rules specified in paragraphs (2) to (4) of this rule.

(2) The Constituency Members Election Rules in Schedule 1 have effect for the purposes of any election of constituency members at an ordinary election, and any election under section 10 (filing a vacancy in an Assembly constituency) of the 1999 Act.

(3) The London Members Election Rules in Schedule 2, with the exception of Part 7, have effect for the purposes of any election of London members; and Part 7 of those rules has effect for the purposes of section 11 (filling a vacancy among the London members) of the 1999 Act.

(4) The Mayoral Election Rules in Schedule 3 have effect for the purposes of any election of the Mayor of London at an ordinary election, and any election under section 16 (filing a vacancy in the office of Mayor) of the 1999 Act.

Modification to the Rules where votes are counted manually U.K.

4.  Where some or all of the votes cast at a Authority election to which rule 3 applies, are to be counted without the use of an electronic counting system, the Constituency Members Election Rules, the London Members Election Rules and the Mayoral Election Rules have effect, with respect to those votes counted manually, subject to the modifications set out in the Manual Count Rules in Schedule 4.

Rules for Authority elections combined with a relevant election or referendum U.K.

5.—(1) This rule applies to an Authority election that is taken together with the poll at—

(a) a parliamentary election, European Parliamentary election or local government election (other than an Authority election), under section 15(1) or (2) of the Representation of the People Act 1985 M17 ; or

(b) a local authority mayoral election or referendum in accordance with regulations made under sections 44 and 105, or 45 and 105, of the Local Government Act 2000 M18 .

(2) For the purposes of an election to which this rule applies—

(a) rules 3 and 4 will not apply; and

(b) subject to rules 6 and 7, the election must be conducted in accordance with the rules specified in paragraphs (3) to (5) of this rule.

(3) The Constituency Members Election Rules in Schedule 5 have effect for the purposes of any election of constituency members of the London Assembly at an ordinary election, and any election under section 10 (filing a vacancy in an Assembly constituency) of the 1999 Act.

(4) The London Members Election Rules in Schedule 6, with the exception of Part 7, have effect for the purposes of any election of London members; and Part 7 of those rules has effect for the purposes of section 11 (filling a vacancy among the London members) of the 1999 Act.

(5) The Mayoral Election Rules in Schedule 7 have effect for the purposes of any election of the Mayor of London at an ordinary election, and any election under section 16 (filing a vacancy in the Office of Mayor) of the 1999 Act.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C3 Rule 5 applied (with modifications) (18.2.2012) by The Local Authorities (Conduct of Referendums) (Council Tax Increases) (England) Regulations 2012 (S.I. 2012/444), reg. 1, Sch. 4 para. 1 Table 11 (with reg. 27)

C4 Rule 5(1) modified (3.8.2012) by The Neighbourhood Planning (Referendums) Regulations 2012 (S.I. 2012/2031), regs. 1, 8, 12, 13, Sch. 4 para. 26

Marginal Citations

M17 1985 c 50 .

M18 2000 c.22.

Modifications to the combined Rules where votes are counted manually U.K.

6.  Where some or all of the votes cast at an Authority election to which rule 5 applies, are to be counted without the use of an electronic counting system, then Constituency Members Election Rules, the London Members Election Rules and the Mayoral Election Rules have effect, with respect to those votes counted manually, subject to the modifications in the Combined Manual Count Rules [F2 in Schedule 8].

Textual Amendments

F2 Words in rule 6 inserted (1.3.2012) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2012 (S.I. 2012/198), rules 1(1), 2

Modifications to the election timetable at by-elections U.K.

7.—(1) For the purposes of a constituency member or mayoral by-election, for the timetable in rule 3 of—

(a) the Constituency Members Election Rules in Schedule 1 or 5;

(b) the Mayoral Election Rules in Schedule 3 or 7,

substitute—

“By-election timetable

Proceedings	Time
Publication of notice of election	Not later than the twenty-fifth day before the day of election.
Delivery of nomination papers	Not later than [F3 4 in the afternoon] on the nineteenth day before the day of election.
[F4 Delivery of notices of withdrawals of candidature	Not later than 4 in the afternoon on the nineteenth day before the day of election]
Publication of statement as to persons nominated	Not later than [F5 4 in the afternoon] on the [F6 eighteenth] day before the day of election.
F7 . . .	F7 . . .
Notice of poll	Not later than the sixth day before the day of election.
Polling	Between the hours of 7 in the morning and 10 at night on the day of election.”

Textual Amendments

F3 Words in rule 7 substituted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(1)(a)

F4 Words in rule 7 inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(1)(b)

F5 Words in rule 7 substituted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(1)(c)(i)

F6 Word in rule 7 substituted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(1)(c)(ii)

F7 Words in rule 7 omitted (8.2.2016) by virtue of The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(1)(d)

Notices U.K.

8.  Schedule 9 (requirements for notices for guidance of voters) has effect.

Forms U.K.

9.  Schedule 10 (forms) has effect.

Returning officers' duties U.K.

10.—(1) At an ordinary election, it is the duty of the CROs and the GLRO to co-operate with each other in the discharge of their functions.

(2) Where a poll is to be taken—

(a) for the return of the London members; or

(b) for the return of the Mayor,

it is the duty of CROs to perform any of the functions they are required to perform by the rules applying to those elections, including verifying the ballot papers at the poll (or each poll if both are to be taken) and counting the votes cast in that poll (or each poll, if both are to be taken).

GLRO's power of direction U.K.

11.—(1) The GLRO may give to any CRO a direction—

(a) as to the manner in which he must discharge any of his functions set out in these Rules; or

(b) requiring him to provide the GLRO with any information which the CRO has or is entitled to have in accordance with these rules,

F8 ....

(2) It is the duty of each CRO to whom a direction is given under paragraph (1) to discharge his functions in accordance with that direction.

(3) Without prejudice to the generality of the preceding provisions of this rule, a GLRO may exercise the power conferred by paragraph (1) to give the directions set out in paragraph (4) subject to the requirements in paragraphs (5) and (6).

(4) The GLRO may direct the CRO to—

(a) include alternative information in the appropriate form of postal voting statement, in place of the paragraphs beneath the heading “[F9 Instructions for voting by post]”;

(b) issue additional information to those entitled to vote by post; or

(c) exercise his discretion to include additional information in poll cards.

(5) Where the GLRO has decided to direct the CRO in accordance with paragraph (4), he must—

(a) supply the alternative or additional information which the CRO is to issue to voters either electronically or in a printed form; and

(b) direct the CRO in writing as to how the information is to be used,

by no later than the date of the notice of election.

(6) Where the CRO does not discharge the functions specified in regulation 5 (functions at combined polls) of the Combination of Polls Regulations, the GLRO may give a direction under paragraph (4) to the returning officer who does discharge those functions.

(7) The alternative or additional information supplied under [F10 (5)(a)] must—

(a) comply with paragraph 4 of the Notices Schedule (as though that information were to be included in a notice);

(b) and must relate to—

(i) the system of voting at the Authority election;

(ii) how many votes a voter has at each Authority election;

(iii) the marks to be used, and the manner in which they should be used, in order to ensure that a vote is counted for any candidate.

(8) For the purposes of this rule—

(a) “postal voting statement”; and

(b) “poll card”,

mean the documents issued under the relevant rules in the Schedule pertaining to the election, and set out in the Forms Schedule.

Textual Amendments

F8 Words in rule 11(1) omitted (8.2.2016) by virtue of The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 3(2)

F9 Words in rule 11(4) substituted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 3(3)

F10 Word in rule 11(7) substituted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 3(4)

[F11 Supply of postal voters lists, etc. U.K.

12.— (1) Paragraphs (2) and (3) apply where a registration officer (“R”) for any part of an Assembly constituency is not the CRO for that constituency.

(2) As soon as practicable after 5pm on the sixth day before the day of the poll at an Authority election, R must send the CRO a copy of the lists R is required to keep in respect of that election under paragraphs 5 and 7(8) of Schedule 4 to the Representation of the People Act 2000 (absent voters lists and proxy postal voters list).

(3) R must, on a request made at any time, supply the CRO with a copy of the lists mentioned in paragraph (2).

(4) In relation to an Authority election, for the purposes of paragraph (2), “the sixth day before the day of the poll” is to be computed in the same way as a period of time mentioned in the timetable for that election.]

Textual Amendments

F11 Rule 12 inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 4

Signed by authority of the Secretary of State.

Bridget Prentice

Parliamentary Under Secretary of State

Ministry of Justice

Rule 3(2)

SCHEDULE 1 U.K. THE CONSTITUENCY MEMBERS ELECTION RULES

PART 1 U.K. General Provisions

Citation U.K.

1.  This Schedule may be cited as the Constituency Members Election Rules.

Interpretation U.K.

2.  In the rules in this Schedule—

(a) unless the context indicates otherwise, “election” means an election of a constituency member;

(b) reference to a rule by number alone is a reference to the rule so numbered in this Schedule.

PART 2 U.K. Provisions As To Time

Timetable U.K.

3.  The proceedings at the election must be conducted in accordance with the following timetable:

Timetable

Proceedings	Time
Publication of notice of election	Not later than the thirtieth day before the day of election.
Delivery of nomination papers	Not later than [F12 4 in the afternoon] on the twenty–fourth day before the day of election.
[F13 Delivery of notices of withdrawals of candidature	Not later than 4 in the afternoon on the twenty-fourth day before the day of election]
Publication of statement as to persons nominated	Not later than [F14 4 in the afternoon] on the twenty–second day before the day of election.
F15 . . .	F15 . . .
Notice of poll	Not later than the sixth day before the day of election.
Polling	Between the hours of 7 in the morning and 10 at night on the day of election.

Textual Amendments

F12 Words in Sch. 1 rule 3 substituted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(2)(a)

F13 Words in Sch. 1 rule 3 inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(2)(b)

F14 Word in Sch. 1 rule 3 substituted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(2)(c)

F15 Words in Sch. 1 rule 3 omitted (8.2.2016) by virtue of The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(2)(d)

Computation of time U.K.

4.—(1) In computing any period of time for the purposes of the timetable—

(a) a Saturday or Sunday,

(b) Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Good Friday or a bank holiday, or

(c) a day appointed for public thanksgiving or mourning,

must be disregarded, and any such day must not be treated as a day for the purpose of any proceedings up to the completion of the poll nor may the CRO be obliged to proceed with the counting of the votes on such a day.

(2) In this rule, “bank holiday” means a day which is a bank holiday under the Banking and Financial Dealings Act 1971 M19 in England and Wales.

Marginal Citations

M19 1971 c. 80.

PART 3 U.K. Stages Common To Contested And Uncontested Elections

Notice of election U.K.

5.—(1) The CRO must publish notice of the election stating—

(a) the place and times at which nomination papers are to be delivered, and

(b) the date of the poll in the event of a contest,

and the notice must state that forms of nomination papers may be obtained at that place and those times.

(2) The notice of election must state the arrangements (if any) which apply for the payment of the deposit required by rule 8 by means of the electronic transfer of funds.

(3) The notice of election must state the date by which—

(a) applications to vote by post or by proxy, and

(b) other applications and notices about postal or proxy voting,

must reach the registration officer for local government electors in order that they may be effective for the election.

Nomination of candidates U.K.

6.—(1) Each candidate must be nominated by a separate nomination paper, which must be—

(a) in the appropriate form, and

(b) delivered to the place fixed for the purpose by the CRO, which must be at the offices of a local authority within the Assembly constituency, before the last time for the delivery of nomination papers.

(2) The nomination paper must state the candidate's—

(a) full names,

(b) home address, in full, and

(c) if desired, description,

and the surname must be placed first in the list of names.

(3) If a candidate commonly uses—

(a) a surname which is different from any other surname he has, or

(b) a forename which is different from any other forename he has,

the nomination paper may state the commonly used surname or forename, or both surname and forename, in addition to the other name.

(4) The description (if any) can only be—

(a) one authorised as mentioned in paragraph (5) or (7), or

(b) the word “Independent”.

(5) A nomination paper may not include a description of a candidate that is likely to lead electors to associate the candidate with a registered party unless—

(a) the party is a qualifying party in relation to the electoral area, and

(b) the description is authorised by a certificate—

(i) issued by or on behalf of the registered nominating officer of the party, and

(ii) received by the CRO before the last time for the delivery of nomination papers set out in the timetable in rule 3.

(6) In paragraph (5) an authorised description may be either—

(a) the name of the party registered under section 28 of the 2000 Act M20 , or

(b) a description of the party registered under section 28A M21 of that Act.

(7) A nomination paper may not include a description of a candidate which is likely to lead electors to associate the candidate with two or more registered political parties unless the parties are each qualifying parties in relation to the electoral area and the description is a registered description authorised by a certificate—

(a) issued by or on behalf of the registered nominating officer of each of the parties, and

(b) received by the CRO before the last time for the delivery of nomination papers set out in the timetable in rule 3.

(8) For the purposes of paragraph (7), a description is a registered description if it is a description registered for use by the parties under section 28B of the 2000 Act M22 .

(9) A person will be guilty of a corrupt practice if he fraudulently purports to be authorised to issue a certificate under paragraph (5) or (7) on behalf of a registered party's nominating officer.

(10) For the purposes of the application of these rules in relation to an election—

(a) “registered party” means a party which was registered under Part 2 of the 2000 Act on the day (“the relevant day”) which is two days before the last day for the delivery of nomination papers at that election,

(b) a registered party is a qualifying party in relation to an electoral area if on the relevant day the party was registered in respect of England in the Great Britain register maintained under that Part of that Act.

(11) For the purposes of paragraph (10)(a), any day falling within rule 4(1) must be disregarded.

Marginal Citations

M20 Section 28 of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 (c.41) was amended by S.I. 2004/366 and by section 48 of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22).

M21 Section 28A of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 (c.41) was inserted by section 49(1) of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22).

M22 Section 28B of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 (c.41) was inserted by section 49(1) of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22).

Consent to nomination U.K.

7.—(1) A person will not be validly nominated unless his consent to nomination—

(a) is given in writing in the appropriate form, or a form to like effect, on or within one month before the last day for the delivery of nomination papers;

(b) is attested by one witness whose name and address must be given; and

(c) is delivered at the place and within the time for delivery of nomination papers.

(2) A candidate's consent given under this rule must—

(a) state the day, month and year of his birth; and

(b) contain a statement that to the best of the candidate's knowledge and belief he is not disqualified from being elected by reason of—

(i) any disqualification set out in section 21 (disqualification from being the Mayor or an Assembly member) of the 1999 Act, F16 ...

[F17 (ii) a decision made under section 78A of the Local Government Act 2000 (decisions of First-tier tribunal), or

(iii) an order made under section 34(4) of the Localism Act 2011 (offences).]

Textual Amendments

F16 Word in Sch. 1 rule 7(2)(b) omitted (8.2.2016) by virtue of The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 7(1)(a)

F17 Sch. 1 rule 7(2)(b)(ii)(iii) substituted for Sch. 1 rule 7(2)(b)(ii) (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 7(1)(b)

Deposits U.K.

8.—(1) A person will not be validly nominated unless the sum of £1,000 is deposited by him, or on his behalf, with the CRO at the place and within the time for delivery of nomination papers.

(2) The deposit may be made either—

(a) by the deposit of any legal tender, or

(b) by means of a banker's draft, or

(c) with the CRO's consent, in any other manner including by means of a debit or credit card or the electronic transfer of funds,

but the CRO may refuse to accept a deposit sought to be made by means of a banker's draft if he does not know that the drawer carries on business as a banker in the United Kingdom.

(3) Where the deposit is made on behalf of the candidate, the person making the deposit must at the time he makes it give his name and address to the CRO, unless they have previously been given to him under section 67 (appointment of election agent) of the 1983 Act.

Decisions as to validity of nomination papers U.K.

9.—(1) Where a nomination paper and the candidate's consent to it are delivered, and the deposit is made, in accordance with this Part of these Rules, the candidate must be deemed to stand nominated unless and until—

(a) the CRO decides that the nomination paper is invalid, or

(b) proof is given to the CRO's satisfaction of the candidate's death, or

(c) the candidate withdraws.

(2) The CRO is entitled to hold a nomination paper invalid only on the grounds—

(a) that the particulars of the candidate on the nomination paper are not as required by law; or

(b) that the paper breaks rule 6(5) or (7).

(3) Subject to paragraph (4), the CRO must, as soon as practicable after each nomination paper has been delivered, examine it and decide whether the candidate has been validly nominated.

(4) If in the CRO's opinion a nomination paper breaks rule 6(5) or (7), he must give a decision to that effect—

(a) as soon as practicable after the delivery of the nomination paper, and

(b) in any event, before the end of the period of 24 hours starting with the end of the period for the delivery of nomination papers set out in the timetable in rule 3.

(5) Where the CRO decides that a nomination paper is invalid, he must endorse and sign on the paper the fact and the reasons for his decision.

(6) The CRO must, as soon as practicable after making a decision under paragraph (3) or (4) that a nomination paper is valid or invalid, send notice of that decision to the candidate at his home address as given in his nomination paper.

(7) The CRO's decision that a nomination paper is valid is final and must not be questioned in any proceeding whatsoever.

(8) Subject to paragraph (7), nothing in this rule prevents the validity of a nomination being questioned on an election petition.

Publication of statement of persons nominated U.K.

10.—(1) The CRO must prepare and [F18 (subject to paragraph (11))] publish a statement showing the persons who have been and stand nominated and any other persons who have been nominated together with the reason why they no longer stand nominated.

(2) The statement must show the names, addresses and descriptions of the persons nominated as given in their nomination papers.

(3) If a person's nomination paper gives a commonly used surname or forename, or both surname and forename, in addition to another name, the statement must show the person's commonly used surname or forename, or both surname and forename (as the case may be) instead of any other name.

(4) Paragraph (3) does not apply if the CRO thinks—

(a) that the use of the person's commonly used name may be likely to mislead or confuse electors, or

(b) that the commonly used name is obscene or offensive.

(5) If paragraph (4) applies, the CRO must give notice in writing to the candidate of his reasons for refusing to allow the use of a commonly used name.

(6) The statement must show the persons standing nominated arranged alphabetically in the order of their surnames, and if there are two or more of them with the same surname, of their other names.

(7) In the case of a person nominated by more than one nomination paper, the CRO must take the particulars required by the foregoing provisions of this rule from such one of the papers as the candidate (or the CRO in default of the candidate) may select.

[F19 (8) Paragraphs (9) to (11) apply at an ordinary election.

(9) As soon as possible after all decisions under rule 9 which are required to be made have been made, the CRO must arrange for a copy of the statement that the CRO has prepared and proposes to publish to be delivered to the GLRO.

(10) If, after having delivered the statement mentioned in paragraph (9) to the GLRO, the CRO receives notification from the GLRO under rule 13(4) that a candidate is deemed to have withdrawn his or her candidature, the CRO must amend that statement accordingly.

(11) The CRO may not publish the statement under paragraph (1) until—

(a) the CRO has made any amendments required under paragraph (10), or

(b) where no notification under rule 13(4) is received from the GLRO, the time by which the GLRO must give such a notification has passed.]

Textual Amendments

F18 Words in Sch. 1 rule 10(1) inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(3)(a)

F19 Sch. 1 rule 10(8)-(11) substituted for Sch. 1 rule 10(8) (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(3)(b)

Correction of minor errors U.K.

11.—(1) A CRO may, if he thinks fit, at any time before the publication under rule 10 of the statement of persons nominated, correct minor errors in a nomination paper.

(2) Errors which may be corrected include—

(a) errors as to a person's electoral number,

(b) obvious errors of spelling in relation to the details of a candidate.

(3) Anything done by a CRO in pursuance of this rule may not be questioned in any proceedings other than proceedings on an election petition.

(4) A CRO must have regard to any guidance issued by the Electoral Commission for the purposes of this rule.

Inspection of nomination papers and consent to nomination U.K.

12.—(1) During ordinary office hours, in the period starting 24 hours after the latest time for the delivery of nomination papers and before the date of the poll, any person may inspect and take copies of, or extracts from, nomination papers and consents to nomination.

(2) Inspection under paragraph (1) may not take place on a day that is specified in rule 4(1).

Nomination in more than one Assembly constituency U.K.

[F20 13.— (1) This rule applies at an ordinary election.

(2) A candidate who is validly nominated in more than one Assembly constituency must withdraw his or her candidature, in accordance with rule 14, in all but one of those constituencies.

(3) Where a candidate does not withdraw his or her candidature as mentioned in paragraph (2), he or she is deemed, after the last time for delivery of notices of withdrawals, to have withdrawn his or her candidature from all the Assembly constituencies in which he or she is, but for this rule, validly nominated.

(4) Where, having reviewed the proposed statements of persons nominated delivered under rule 10(9), it appears to the GLRO that a candidate (“C”) appears (but for this rule) to have been validly nominated in more than one Assembly constituency (“a relevant constituency”), the GLRO must at least one hour before the last time for publication of the statement as to persons nominated as set out in the timetable in rule 3, notify the CRO for each relevant constituency that C’s candidature is deemed to have been withdrawn in that constituency.

(5) A CRO must, as soon as practicable after receiving the notification mentioned in paragraph (4), notify C that C’s candidature is deemed to have been withdrawn in that constituency.]

Textual Amendments

F20 Sch. 1 rule 13 substituted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(4)

Withdrawal of candidates U.K.

14.—(1) A candidate may withdraw his candidature by notice of withdrawal—

(a) signed by him and attested by one witness, whose name and address must be given, and

(b) delivered to the CRO at the place for delivery of nomination papers,

by the end of the period for the delivery of notices of withdrawals of candidature in the timetable in rule 3.

(2) Where a candidate is outside the United Kingdom, a notice of withdrawal signed by his election agent and accompanied by a written declaration also so signed of the candidate's absence from the United Kingdom will be of the same effect as a notice of withdrawal signed by the candidate; but where the candidate stands nominated by more than one nomination paper a notice of withdrawal under this paragraph will be effective if, and only if, it is accompanied, in addition to that declaration, by a written statement signed by the candidate that the person giving the notice is authorised to do so on the candidate's behalf during his absence from the United Kingdom.

Method of election U.K.

15.—(1) If, after any withdrawals in accordance with [F21 these Rules], the number of persons remaining validly nominated for the Assembly constituency exceeds one, a poll must be taken in accordance with Part 4 of these Rules.

(2) If, after any withdrawals in accordance with [F21 these Rules], only one person remains validly nominated for the Assembly constituency, that person must be declared to be elected in accordance with Part 5.

Textual Amendments

F21 Words in Sch. 1 rule 15 substituted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(5)

PART 4 U.K. Contested Elections

Poll to be taken by ballot U.K.

16.  The votes at the poll must be given by ballot, the result must be ascertained by counting the votes given to each candidate, and the candidate to whom more votes have been given than to the other candidates must be declared to have been elected.

The ballot papers U.K.

17.—(1) The ballot of every voter must consist of a ballot paper that must be in the appropriate form.

(2) Each person remaining validly nominated for the election, after any withdrawals, and no other, is entitled to have their name inserted in the ballot paper.

(3) Every ballot paper—

(a) must [F22 , so far as practicable for the purposes of electronic counting,] be printed in accordance with the directions set out in the Forms Schedule,

(b) must contain the names and other particulars of the candidates as shown in the statement of persons nominated,

(c) must have a number and other unique identifying mark printed on the back, and

(d) may, in the case of ballot papers for use at polling stations, be marked with the words “do not fold”.

(4) If a candidate who is the subject of a party's authorisation under rule 6(5) so requests, the ballot paper must contain, against the candidate's particulars, the party's registered emblem (or, as the case may be, one of the party's registered emblems).

[F23 (4A) If a candidate who is the subject of an authorisation by two or more parties under rule 6(7) so requests, the ballot paper must contain, against the candidate’s particulars, the registered emblem (or, as the case may be, one of the registered emblems) of one of those parties.]

(5) The candidate's request under paragraph (4) [F24 or paragraph (4A)] must—

(a) be made in writing to the CRO, and

(b) be received by him within the period for delivery of nomination papers set out in the timetable in rule 3.

(6) The order of the names in the ballot paper must be the same as in the statement of persons nominated.

(7) At an ordinary election, the GLRO must supply the ballot papers for use at the election to the CRO by such date as may be agreed between them.

(8) The ballot papers supplied under paragraph (7) must be of a different colour from those used at any other Authority election with which the election is taken.

Textual Amendments

F22 Words in Sch. 1 rule 17(3)(a) inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 8(1)

F23 Sch. 1 rule 17(4A) inserted (1.3.2012) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2012 (S.I. 2012/198), rules 1(1), 3(2)(a)

F24 Words in Sch. 1 rule 17(5) inserted (1.3.2012) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2012 (S.I. 2012/198), rules 1(1), 3(2)(b)

The corresponding number list U.K.

18.—(1) The CRO must prepare a list containing the numbers and other unique identifying marks of all of the ballot papers to be issued by him in pursuance of rule 23(1) or provided by him in pursuance of rule 28(1).

(2) The list must be in the appropriate form or a form to like effect.

(3) At an ordinary election, the same list may be used for each Authority election.

The official mark U.K.

19.—(1) Every ballot paper must contain an appropriate security marking (the official mark).

(2) The official mark must be kept secret, and an interval of not less than five years must intervene between the use of the same official mark at any Authority election.

(3) The CRO, or at an ordinary election the GLRO, may use a different official mark for different purposes at the same election.

Prohibition of disclosure of vote U.K.

20.  No person who has voted at the election may, in any legal proceeding to question the election, be required to state for whom he has voted.

Use of schools and public rooms U.K.

21.—(1) The CRO may use, free of charge, for the purpose of taking the poll or counting the votes—

(a) a room in a school maintained or assisted by a [F25 local authority (as defined in the Education Act 1996)] or a school in respect of which grants are made out of moneys provided by Parliament to the person or body of persons responsible for the management of the school,

(b) a room the expense of maintaining which is met by any local authority.

(2) The CRO must make good any damage done to, and defray any expense incurred by the persons having control over, any such room as mentioned in paragraph (1) by reason of its being used for the purpose of taking the poll or counting the votes.

Textual Amendments

F25 Words in Sch. 1 rule 21(1)(a) substituted (5.5.2010) by The Local Education Authorities and Children’s Services Authorities (Integration of Functions) (Local and Subordinate Legislation) Order 2010 (S.I. 2010/1172), art. 1(1), Sch. 3 para. 77(2)

Notice of poll U.K.

22.—(1) The CRO must, in accordance with the timetable in rule 3, publish notice of the poll stating—

(a) the day and hours fixed for the poll, and

(b) the particulars of each candidate remaining validly nominated (the names and other particulars of the candidates, and the order of the candidates' names being the same as in the statement of persons nominated).

(2) The CRO must, not later than the time of the publication of the notice of the poll, also give public notice of—

(a) the situation of each polling station, and

(b) the description of voters entitled to vote there,

and he must as soon as practicable after giving such a notice give a copy of it to each of the election agents.

(3) At an ordinary election, the notice of poll must include the heading “GREATER LONDON AUTHORITY ELECTION”.

Postal ballot papers U.K.

23.—(1) The CRO must, in accordance with regulations made under the 1983 Act M23 , issue to those entitled to vote by post a ballot paper and a postal voting statement, together with such envelopes for their return as may be prescribed in such regulations.

(2) The postal voting statement must be in the appropriate form or a form to like effect.

(3) The postal voting statement must include provision for the form to be signed and for stating the date of birth of the elector or proxy (as the case may be).

(4) The CRO must also issue to those entitled to vote by post such information as he thinks appropriate about how to obtain—

(a) translations into languages other than English of any directions to or guidance for voters sent with the ballot paper,

(b) a translation into Braille of such directions or guidance,

(c) graphical representations of such directions or guidance,

(d) the directions or guidance in any other form (including any audible form).

(5) In the case of a ballot paper issued to a person at an address in the United Kingdom, the CRO must ensure that the return of the ballot paper and postal voting statement is free of charge to the voter.

(6) Where the proceedings on the issue and receipt of postal ballot papers at the election are taken together with any other Authority election the appropriate form of postal voting statement under paragraph (2) may be the joint postal voting statement which must be in the appropriate form or form to like effect.

Marginal Citations

M23 See the Representation of the People (England and Wales) Regulations 2001 S.I. 2001/341 as amended by S.I. 2002/1871, 2006/752 and S.I. 2006/2910.

Provision of polling stations U.K.

24.—(1) The CRO must provide a sufficient number of polling stations and, subject to the following provisions of this rule, must allot the electors to the polling stations in such manner as he thinks most convenient.

(2) One or more polling stations may be provided in the same room.

(3) The polling station allotted to electors from any parliamentary polling district wholly or partly within the Assembly constituency must, in the absence of special circumstances, be in the parliamentary polling place for that district, unless that place is outside the Assembly constituency.

(4) The CRO must provide each polling station with such number of compartments as may be necessary in which the voters can mark their votes screened from observation.

Appointment of presiding officers and clerks U.K.

25.—(1) The CRO must appoint and pay a presiding officer to attend at each polling station and such clerks and technical assistants as may be necessary for the purposes of the election, but he must not appoint any person who has been employed by or on behalf of a candidate in or about the election.

(2) The CRO may, if he thinks fit, preside at a polling station and the provisions of this Part relating to a presiding officer apply to a CRO so presiding with the necessary modifications as to things to be done by the CRO to the presiding officer or by the presiding officer to the CRO.

(3) A presiding officer may do, by the clerks appointed to assist him, any act (including the asking of questions) which he is required or authorised by this Part to do at a polling station except order the arrest, exclusion or removal of any person from the polling station.

Issue of official poll cards U.K.

26.—(1) The CRO must as soon as practicable after the publication of the notice of election, send to electors and their proxies an official poll card.

(2) An elector's official poll card must be sent or delivered to his qualifying address, and a proxy's to his address as shown in the list of proxies.

(3) The official poll card must be in the appropriate form or a form to like effect, and must set out–

(a) the name of the Assembly constituency for which a constituency member is to be elected,

(b) the elector's name, qualifying address and number on the register,

(c) the date and hours of the poll and the situation of the elector's polling station, and

(d) such other information as the CRO thinks appropriate,

and different information may be provided in pursuance of sub-paragraph (d) to different electors or descriptions of elector.

(4) In the case of an elector with an anonymous entry, instead of containing the matter mentioned in paragraph (3)(b), the polling card must contain such matter as is specified in the appropriate form.

(5) At an ordinary election, the CRO must issue a combined poll card in the appropriate form.

(6) In this rule “elector” means—

(a) an elector with an entry on the register to be used at the election on the last day for the publication of the notice of the election, and

(b) includes a person then shown in the register as below voting age if (but only if) it appears from the register that he will be of voting age on the day fixed for the poll.

Information for voters U.K.

27.—(1) At an ordinary election, the GLRO may, in addition to a statement by him in an election booklet, include in the booklet information for voters that has been agreed by him with the Electoral Commission.

(2) The information for voters given in the election booklet may include information about—

(a) the office of the Mayor and the London Assembly,

(b) the system of voting at each Authority election,

(c) how to vote in a manner that will ensure a vote is regarded as validly cast, and

subject to paragraph (3), may include any other information given in exercise of the GLRO's duty under section 69 (encouraging electoral participation) of the 2006 Act.

(3) The information for voters must not contain—

(a) any advertising material,

(b) any material referring to a candidate or a registered party, other than by reproduction of a ballot paper which refers equally to all candidates and parties at the ordinary election,

(c) any material referring to the holder, at any time, of the office of Mayor or Assembly member, other than under paragraph (b) as a candidate at the ordinary election.

(4) Information published in an election booklet under this rule must be printed on not more than two sides of A5 paper.

Equipment of polling stations U.K.

28.—(1) The CRO must provide each presiding officer with—

(a) such ballot papers as may be necessary, and

(b) such ballot boxes as may be necessary having taken account of any direction made by the GLRO in accordance with paragraph (9).

(2) Every ballot box must be so constructed that the ballot papers can be put in it, but cannot be withdrawn from it, without the box being unlocked or, where the box has no lock, the seal being broken.

(3) The CRO must provide each polling station with—

(a) materials to enable voters to mark the ballot papers,

(b) copies of the register of electors for the Assembly constituency or such part of it as contains the entries relating to the electors allotted to the station,

(c) the parts of any special lists prepared for the election corresponding to the register of electors for the Assembly constituency or the part of it provided under sub-paragraph (b),

(d) a list consisting of that part of the list prepared under rule 18 which contains the numbers (but not the other unique identifying marks) corresponding to those on the ballot papers provided to the presiding officer of the polling station.

(4) The reference in paragraph (3)(b) to the copies of the register of electors includes a reference to copies of any notices issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act M24 in respect of alterations to the register.

(5) The CRO must also provide each polling station with a device for enabling voters who are blind or partially sighted to vote without any need for assistance from the presiding officer or any companion within the meaning of rule 40.

(6) The device referred to in paragraph (5) above must—

(a) allow a ballot paper to be inserted into and removed from or attached to and detached from the device, easily and without damage to the paper,

(b) keep the ballot paper firmly in place during use,

(c) provide suitable means for the voter to—

(i) identify the spaces on the ballot paper on which he may mark his vote,

(ii) identify the candidate to whom each such space refers, and

(iii) mark his vote on the space he has chosen.

(7) The enlarged sample copies of the ballot paper that the CRO provides to, or causes to be displayed at, every polling station (in accordance with section 199B(5) and (7) of the 1983 Act) must be printed on paper of the same colour as the ballot paper at the election.

(8) The CRO must also provide each polling station with notices for the guidance of voters, which must be exhibited—

(a) outside the polling station,

(b) inside the polling station—

(i) in the communal areas, and

(ii) in every voting compartment.

(9) If the GLRO thinks fit he may, not later than the date of the notice of election, direct the CRO that joint ballot boxes must be used for the ballot papers at the election and any or all Authority elections with which the election is taken.

Marginal Citations

M24 Section 13B of the 1983 Act was inserted by paragraph 3 of Schedule 2 to the Representation of the People Act 2000 (c.2) and amended by section 11(3) of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22). Subsections (3B) and (3D) of section 13B were inserted by section 11(4) of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22).

Notices for the guidance of voters U.K.

29.—(1) The CRO must prepare the notices to be exhibited under rule 28(8).

(2) The CRO may prepare versions of the notices in such other form as he thinks appropriate, in accordance with section 199B (translations etc of certain documents) of the 1983 Act.

(3) Notices for the guidance of voters exhibited under rule 28(8) or paragraph (2) must be in the appropriate form, but may include such alternative information relating to Authority elections as—

(a) meets with the requirements of the Notices Schedule, and

(b) the CRO may decide.

(4) Notices provided under paragraph (2) may, if the CRO agrees, be exhibited at any polling station—

(a) outside the polling station,

(b) inside the polling station—

(i) in the communal areas,

(ii) in every voting compartment.

(5) At an ordinary election, the GLRO must prepare the notices and versions of notices to be exhibited under rule 28(8) and supply them to the CRO, and for paragraph (3)(b) there must substituted—

“(b) the GLRO may decide.”

Appointment of polling and counting agents U.K.

30.—(1) Before the commencement of the poll, each candidate may appoint—

(a) polling agents to attend at polling stations for the purpose of detecting personation, and

(b) counting agents to attend at the counting of votes.

(2) The same person may be appointed as a polling agent or counting agent by more than one candidate.

(3) For the count, one (but no more than one) counting agent of each candidate may be authorised by the terms of his appointment to require a re-count at that count.

(4) Not more than four polling agents, or such greater number as the CRO may by notice allow, may be permitted to attend at any particular polling station.

(5) If the number of such agents appointed to attend at a particular polling station exceeds that number, the CRO must determine by lot which agents are permitted to attend, and only the agents on whom the lot falls will be deemed to have been duly appointed.

(6) The CRO may limit the number of counting agents, but in doing so must ensure that—

(a) the number is the same in the case of each candidate, and

(b) the number allowed to a candidate must not (except in special circumstances) be less than the number obtained by dividing the number of clerks employed on the counting by the number of candidates.

(7) For the purposes of the calculations required by paragraph (6), a counting agent who has been appointed by more than one candidate is a separate agent for each of the candidates by whom he has been appointed.

(8) Notice in writing of the appointment of polling and counting agents, stating the names and addresses of the persons appointed, must be given by the candidate to the CRO and must be so given not later than the fifth day (computed in accordance with rule 4) before the day of the poll.

(9) If an agent dies, or becomes incapable of acting, the candidate may appoint another agent in his place, and must forthwith give to the CRO notice in writing of the name and address of the agent appointed.

(10) Any appointment authorised by this rule may be made and the notice of appointment given to the CRO by the candidate's election agent, instead of by the candidate.

(11) In the following provisions of this Part references to polling agents and counting agents must be taken as references to agents—

(a) whose appointments have been duly made and notified, and

(b) where the number of agents is restricted, who are within the permitted numbers.

(12) Any notice required to be given to a counting agent by the CRO may be delivered at, or sent by post to, the address stated in the notice of appointment.

(13) A candidate may himself do any act or thing which any polling or counting agent of his, if appointed, would have been authorised to do, or may assist his agent in doing any such act or thing.

(14) A candidate's election agent may do or assist in doing anything which a polling or counting agent of his is authorised to do; and anything required or authorised by these Rules to be done in the presence of the polling or counting agent may be done in the presence of a candidate's election agent instead of his polling agent or counting agent.

(15) Where by these Rules any act or thing is required or authorised to be done in the presence of the polling or counting agents, the non-attendance of any agent or agents at the time and place appointed for the purpose will not, if the act or thing is otherwise duly done, invalidate the act or thing done.

Notification of requirement of secrecy U.K.

31.— [F26 (1)] The CRO must make such arrangements as he thinks fit to ensure that—

(a) every person attending a polling station (otherwise than for the purpose of voting or assisting a voter with disabilities to vote or as a constable on duty there) has been given a copy of the provisions of subsections (1), (3) and (6) of section 66 (requirement of secrecy) of the 1983 Act M25 , and

(b) every person attending at the counting of the votes (other than any constable on duty at the counting) has been given a copy of the provisions of subsections (2) and (6) of that section.

[F27 (2) In paragraph (1) a reference to a constable includes a person designated as a community support officer under section 38 of the 2002 Act (police powers for employees).]

Textual Amendments

F26 Sch. 1 rule 31 renumbered as Sch. 1 rule 31(1) (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 5(2)(a)

F27 Sch. 1 rule 31(2) inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 5(2)(a)

Marginal Citations

M25 1983 c. 2; Section 66 of that Act was amended by the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c. 22).

Return of postal ballot papers U.K.

32.—(1) Where—

(a) a postal vote has been returned in respect of a person who is entered on the postal voters list, or

(b) a proxy postal vote has been returned in respect of a proxy who is entered on the proxy postal voters list,

the CRO must mark the list in the manner prescribed by regulations made under the 1983 Act M26 .

(2) Rule 49(2) does not apply for the purpose of determining whether, for the purposes of this rule, a postal vote or a proxy postal vote is returned.

Marginal Citations

M26 1983 c. 2; Regulation 84A of the Representation of the People (England and Wales) Regulations 2001 S.I. 2001/341 as amended by S.I. 2006/2910 provides the circumstances in which a postal vote should be treated as returned for this purpose.

Admission to polling station U.K.

33.—(1) The presiding officer must exclude all persons from the polling station except—

(a) voters,

(b) persons under the age of 18 who accompany voters to the polling station,

(c) the candidates and their election agents,

(d) the polling agents appointed to attend at the polling station,

(e) the clerks appointed to attend at the polling station,

(f) persons who are entitled to attend by virtue of any of sections 6A to 6D of the 2000 Act,

(g) the constables on duty, and

(h) the companions of voters with disabilities.

(2) The presiding officer must regulate the total number of voters and persons under the age of 18 who accompany them to be admitted to the polling station at the same time.

(3) Not more than one polling agent may be admitted at the same time to a polling station on behalf of the same candidate.

(4) A constable or person employed by the CRO must not be admitted to vote in person elsewhere than at his own polling station allotted to him under these Rules, except on production and surrender of a certificate as to his employment which must be in the appropriate form and signed by an officer of the police of or above the rank of inspector or by the CRO, as the case may be.

(5) Any certificate surrendered under this rule must forthwith be cancelled.

[F28 (6) In this rule a reference to a constable includes a person designated as a community support officer under section 38 of the 2002 Act.]

Textual Amendments

F28 Sch. 1 rule 33(6) inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 5(2)(b)

Keeping of order in station U.K.

34.—(1) It is the presiding officer's duty to keep order at his polling station.

(2) If a person misconducts himself in a polling station, or fails to obey the presiding officer's lawful orders, he may immediately, by the presiding officer's order, be removed from the polling station—

(a) by a constable in or near that station, or

(b) by any other person authorised in writing by the CRO to remove him,

and the person so removed must not, without the presiding officer's permission, again enter the polling station during the day.

(3) Any person so removed may, if charged with the commission in the polling station of an offence, be dealt with as a person taken into custody by a constable for an offence without a warrant.

(4) The powers conferred by this rule must not be exercised so as to prevent a voter who is otherwise entitled to vote at a polling station from having an opportunity of voting at that station.

Sealing of ballot boxes U.K.

35.  Immediately before the commencement of the poll, the presiding officer must—

(a) show each ballot box, empty, to such persons, if any, as are present in the polling station, so that they may see that the boxes are empty,

(b) lock up such of the boxes as have locks,

(c) place his seal—

(i) on each lock, and

(ii) on each ballot box which has no lock,

in such a manner as to prevent its being opened without breaking the seal,

(d) place each box in his view for the receipt of ballot papers, and

(e) keep each box locked and sealed or, as the case may be, sealed.

Questions to be put to voters U.K.

36.—(1) At the time of the application (but not afterwards), the questions specified in the second column of the following table—

(a) may be put by the presiding officer to a person who is mentioned in the first column, and

(b) must be put if the letter “R” appears after the question and the candidate or his election or polling agent requires the question to be put.

Q. No.	Person applying for ballot paper	Question
1	A person applying as an elector	(a)—Are you the person registered in the register of local government electors for this election as follows (read the whole entry from the register)? [R] (b)—Have you already voted, here or elsewhere at this election for a constituency member, otherwise than as proxy for some other person? [R]
2	A person applying as proxy	(a)—Are you the person whose name appears as A.B. in the list of proxies for this election as entitled to vote as proxy on behalf of C.D.? [R] (b)—Have you already voted here or elsewhere at this election for a constituency member, as proxy on behalf of C.D.? [R] (c)—Are you the spouse, civil partner, parent, grandparent, brother, sister, child or grandchild of C.D.? [R]
3	A person applying as proxy for an elector with an anonymous entry (instead of the questions at entry 2)	(a)—Are you the person entitled to vote as proxy on behalf of the elector whose number on the register of electors is (read out the number)? [R] (b)—Have you already voted here or elsewhere as proxy on behalf of the elector whose number on the register of electors is (read out the number)?” [R] (c)—Are you the spouse, civil partner, parent, grandparent, brother, sister, child or grandchild of the person whose number on the register of electors is (read out the number)? [R]
4	A person applying as proxy if the question at entry 2(c) or 3(c) is not answered in the affirmative	Have you already voted here or elsewhere at this election for a constituency member, on behalf of two persons of whom you are not the spouse, civil partner, parent, grandparent, brother, sister, child or grandchild? [R]
5	A person applying as an elector in relation to whom there is an entry in the postal voters list	(a)—Did you apply to vote by post? (b)—Why have you not voted by post?
6	A person applying as proxy who is named in the proxy postal voters list	(a)—Did you apply to vote by post as proxy? (b)—Why have you not voted by post as proxy?

(2) In the case of an elector in respect of whom a notice has been issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act, the references in the questions at entries 1(a) and 3(a), (b) and (c) to reading from the register must be taken as references to reading from the notice issued under those subsections.

(3) A ballot paper must not be delivered to any person required to answer any of the above questions unless he has answered each question satisfactorily.

(4) Except as authorised by this rule, no inquiry may be permitted as to the right of any person to vote.

Challenge of voter U.K.

37.  A person must not be prevented from voting because—

(a) a candidate or his election or polling agent declares that he has reasonable cause to believe that the person has committed an offence of personation, or

(b) the person is arrested on the grounds that he is suspected of committing or of being about to commit such an offence.

Voting procedure U.K.

38.—(1) A ballot paper must be delivered to a voter who applies for one, and immediately before delivery—

(a) the number and (unless paragraph (2) applies) name of the elector as stated in the copy of the register of electors must be called out,

(b) the number of the elector must be marked on the list mentioned in rule 28(3)(d) beside the number of the ballot paper to be issued to him,

(c) a mark must be placed in the register of electors against the number of the elector to note that a ballot paper has been applied for but without showing the particular ballot paper which may be delivered,

(d) in the case of a person applying for a ballot paper as proxy, a mark must also be placed against his name in the list of proxies.

(2) In the case of an elector who has an anonymous entry, he must show the presiding officer his official poll card and only his number may be called out in pursuance of paragraph (1)(a).

(3) In the case of an elector who is added to the register in pursuance of a notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act, paragraph (1) is modified as follows—

(a) in sub-paragraph (a), for “copy of the register of electors” substitute “copy of the notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act”,

(b) in sub-paragraph (c), for “in the register of electors” substitute “on the copy of the notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act”.

(4) The voter, on receiving the ballot paper, must forthwith proceed into one of the compartments in the polling station and there secretly mark his paper, and must then show to the presiding officer the back of the paper, so as to disclose the number and other unique identifying mark, and put the ballot paper into the ballot box in the presiding officer's presence, but so as to conceal his vote.

(5) The voter must vote without undue delay, and must leave the polling station as soon as he has put his ballot paper into the ballot box.

(6) A voter who has had a ballot paper delivered to him under paragraph (1), but has decided not to mark it, may return it to the presiding officer and where the voter does so, the presiding officer must—

(a) immediately cancel the ballot paper, and for the purposes of these rules treat it as a spoilt ballot paper,

(b) place a mark beside the number of that ballot paper on the corresponding number list to show that the ballot paper has been cancelled.

(7) At an ordinary election, the same copy of—

(a) the list of proxies,

(b) the list mentioned in rule 28(3)(d),

(c) the register of electors,

(d) any notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act (marked in the case of an elector who is added to the register in pursuance of such a notice),

may be used for each Authority election and one mark may be placed in the list, register or notice (as the case may be) to denote that a ballot paper has been delivered in respect of each Authority election; except that, where a ballot paper has not been issued in respect of any Authority election, a different mark must be placed in the list, register or notice so as to identify the elections in respect of which a ballot paper was issued.

[F29 (8) A voter who at the close of the poll is in the polling station, or in a queue outside the polling station, for the purpose of voting must (despite the close of the poll) be entitled to apply for a ballot paper under paragraph (1); and these rules apply in relation to such a voter accordingly.]

Textual Amendments

F29 Sch. 1 rule 38(8) inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 9(1)(a)

Votes marked by presiding officer U.K.

39.—(1) The presiding officer, on the application of a voter—

(a) who is incapacitated by blindness or other disability from voting in the manner directed by these Rules, or

(b) who declares orally that he is unable to read,

must, in the presence of the polling agents, cause the voter's vote to be marked on a ballot paper in the manner directed by the voter, and the ballot paper to be placed in the ballot box.

(2) The name and number on the register of electors of every voter whose vote is marked in pursuance of this rule, and the reason why it is so marked, must be entered on a list (in these Rules called “the list of votes marked by the presiding officer”). In the case of a person voting as proxy for an elector, the number to be entered together with the voter's name must be the elector's number.

(3) In the case of a person in respect of whom a notice has been issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act M27 , paragraph (2) applies as if for “on the register of electors of every voter” there were substituted “relating to every voter in respect of whom a notice has been issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act”.

(4) At an ordinary election, the same list may be used for each Authority election, and where it is so used, an entry in that list must be taken to mean that the ballot papers were so marked in respect of each Authority election, unless the list identifies the election for which the ballot paper was so marked.

Marginal Citations

M27 Section 13B of the 1983 Act was inserted by paragraph 3 of Schedule 2 to the Representation of the People Act 2000 (c.2) and amended by section 11(3) of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22). Subsections (3B) and (3D) of section 13B were inserted by section 11(4) of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22).

Voting by persons with disabilities U.K.

40.—(1) If a voter makes an application to the presiding officer to be allowed, on the ground of—

(a) blindness or other disability, or

(b) inability to read,

to vote with the assistance of another person by whom he is accompanied (in these Rules referred to as “the companion”), the presiding officer must require the voter to declare, orally or in writing, whether he is so incapacitated by his blindness or other disability, or by his inability to read, as to be unable to vote without assistance.

(2) If the presiding officer–

(a) is satisfied that the voter is so incapacitated, and

(b) is also satisfied by a written declaration made by the companion (in these Rules referred to as “the declaration made by the companion of a voter with disabilities”) that the companion—

(i) is a qualified person within the meaning of these Rules, and

(ii) has not previously assisted more than one voter with disabilities to vote at the election,

the presiding officer must grant the application, and then anything which is by these Rules required to be done to, or by that voter in connection with the giving of his vote may be done to, or with the assistance of, the companion.

(3) For the purpose of these Rules, a person is a voter with disabilities if he has made such a declaration as is mentioned in paragraph (1) above, and a person may be qualified to assist a voter with disabilities to vote if that person—

(a) is a person who is entitled to vote as an elector at the election, or

(b) is the father, mother, brother, sister, spouse, civil partner, son or daughter of the voter and has attained the age of 18 years.

(4) The name and number in the register of electors of every voter whose vote is given in accordance with this rule and the name and address of the companion must be entered on a list (in these Rules referred to as the “list of voters with disabilities assisted by companions”). In the case of a person voting as proxy for an elector, the number to be entered together with the voter's name must be the elector's number.

(5) In the case of a person in respect of whom a notice has been issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act, paragraph (4) applies as if for “in the register of electors of every voter” there were substituted “relating to every voter in respect of whom a notice has been issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act”.

(6) The declaration made by the companion—

(a) must be in the appropriate form,

(b) must be made before the presiding officer at the time when the voter applies to vote with the assistance of a companion, and

(c) must forthwith be given to the presiding officer who must attest and retain it.

(7) No fee or other payment may be charged in respect of the declaration.

(8) At an ordinary election, the same list of voters with disabilities assisted by companions may be used for each Authority election, and where it is so used, an entry in that list must be taken to mean that the votes were so given in respect of each Authority election, unless the list identifies the election for which the vote was so given.

Tendered ballot papers: circumstances where available U.K.

41.—(1) If a person, representing himself to be—

(a) a particular elector named in the register and not named in the absent voters list, or

(b) a particular person named in the list of proxies as proxy for an elector and not entitled to vote by post as proxy,

applies for a ballot paper after another person has voted in person either as the elector or his proxy, the applicant must, on satisfactorily answering the questions permitted by law to be asked at the poll, be entitled, subject to the following provisions of this rule and rule 42, to mark a ballot paper (in these Rules referred to as “a tendered ballot paper”) in the same manner as any other voter.

(2) Paragraph (4) applies if—

(a) a person applies for a ballot paper representing himself to be a particular elector named in the register,

(b) he is also named in the postal voters list, and

(c) he claims that he did not make an application to vote by post at the election.

(3) Paragraph (4) also applies if—

(a) a person applies for a ballot paper representing himself to be a particular person named as a proxy in the list of proxies,

(b) he is also named in the proxy postal voters list, and

(c) he claims that he did not make an application to vote by post as proxy.

(4) The person must, on satisfactorily answering the questions permitted by law to be asked at the poll, be entitled, subject to the following provisions of this rule and rule 42, to mark a ballot paper (in these Rules referred to as a “tendered ballot paper”) in the same manner as any other voter.

(5) Paragraph (6) applies if before the close of the poll but after the last time at which a person may apply for a replacement postal ballot paper, a person represents himself to be—

(a) a particular elector named in the register who is also named in the postal voters list, or

(b) a particular person named as a proxy in the list of proxies and who is also named in the proxy postal voters list,

and claims that he has lost or has not received his postal ballot paper.

(6) The person must, on satisfactorily answering the questions permitted by law to be asked at the poll, be entitled, subject to the provisions of this rule and rule 42, to mark a ballot paper (in these Rules referred to as a “tendered ballot paper”) in the same manner as any other voter.

Tendered ballot papers: general provisions U.K.

42.—(1) A tendered ballot paper must—

(a) be of a colour differing from the other ballot papers,

(b) instead of being put into the ballot box, be given to the presiding officer and endorsed by him with the name of the voter and his number on the register of electors, and set aside in a separate packet.

(2) The name of the voter and his number on the register of electors must be entered on a list (in these Rules referred to as the “tendered votes list”).

(3) In the case of a person voting as proxy for an elector, the number to be endorsed or entered together with the voter's name must be the number of that elector.

(4) In the case of an elector who has an anonymous entry, this rule and rule 41 apply subject to the following modifications—

(a) in paragraphs (1)(b) and (2) above, the references to the name of the voter must be ignored,

(b) otherwise, a reference to a person named on a register or list must be construed as a reference to a person whose number appears in the register or list (as the case may be).

(5) In the case of a person in respect of whom a notice has been issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act, this rule and rule 41 apply as if—

(a) in rule 41(1)(a), (2)(a) and (5)(a), for “named in the register” there were substituted “in respect of whom a notice under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act has been issued”,

(b) in paragraph (1)(b) of this rule for “his number in the register of electors” there were substituted “the number relating to him on a notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act”,

(c) in paragraph (2) of this rule, for “his number in the register of electors” there were substituted “the number relating to him on a notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act”.

(6) At an ordinary election, the same list may be used for each Authority election, and where it is so used, an entry in that list must be taken to mean that tendered ballot papers were marked in respect of each Authority election, unless the list identifies the election for which a tendered ballot paper was delivered.

Spoilt and replacement ballot papers U.K.

43.—(1) A voter who has inadvertently dealt with his ballot paper in such manner that it cannot be conveniently used as a ballot paper may, on delivering it to the presiding officer and proving to his satisfaction the fact of the inadvertence, obtain a replacement for the ballot paper so delivered (in these Rules referred to as “ a spoilt ballot paper”), and the spoilt ballot paper must be immediately cancelled.

(2) If a voter decides, after he has returned his ballot paper and it has been cancelled in accordance with rule 38(6), but before the close of the poll, that he wishes to vote in the election, he may obtain a replacement for the returned ballot paper.

(3) Before a replacement ballot paper is obtained, the presiding officer must mark the corresponding number list that was marked under rule 39(1) (the corresponding number list)—

(a) in the case of a ballot paper being replaced under paragraph (1) or (2), beside the number of the replacement ballot paper obtained to show—

(i) the number of the elector, and

(ii) the number of the ballot paper which is being replaced; and

(b) in the case of a ballot paper being replaced under paragraph (1), beside the number of the spoilt ballot paper to show that the ballot paper was replaced.

(4) At an ordinary election, the voter must only receive a replacement for a spoilt or returned ballot paper.

(5) If the same corresponding number list is used for more than one Authority election in accordance with rule 38(7)—

(a) the marks made under paragraph (3) must identify the election for which a ballot paper has been replaced, and

(b) any ballot paper which the voter has not applied for or obtained as a replacement, but which bears the same ballot paper number as a ballot paper delivered under rule 38(1), or obtained under paragraph (1) or (2) of this rule—

(i) must not be delivered to the voter,

(ii) must be cancelled, and

(iii) for the purposes of these rules, must be treated as a spoilt ballot paper.

Correction of errors on day of poll U.K.

44.—(1) The presiding officer must keep a list of persons to whom ballot papers are delivered in consequence of an alteration to the register made by virtue of section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act which takes effect on the day of the poll.

(2) At an ordinary election, the same list may be used for each Authority election, and where it is so used, an entry in that list must be taken to mean that ballot papers were delivered in respect of each Authority election, unless the list identifies the election for which a tendered ballot paper was delivered.

Adjournment of poll in case of riot U.K.

45.—(1) Where the proceedings at any polling station are interrupted or obstructed by riot or open violence, the presiding officer must adjourn the proceedings till the following day and must forthwith inform the CRO.

(2) Where the poll is adjourned at any polling station—

(a) the hours of polling on the day to which it is adjourned must be the same as for the original day, and

(b) references in these Rules to the close of the poll must be construed accordingly.

(3) As soon as practicable after being informed of the adjournment of a poll, the CRO must inform the GLRO of that fact and of the cause of its adjournment.

Procedure on close of poll U.K.

46.—(1) As soon as practicable after the close of the poll, the presiding officer must, in the presence of the polling agents, make up into separate packets, sealed with his own seal and the seals of such polling agents as desire to affix their seals—

(a) each ballot box in use at the station, sealed so as to prevent the introduction of additional ballot papers and unopened, but with any key attached,

(b) the unused and spoilt ballot papers placed together,

(c) the tendered ballot papers,

(d) the marked copies of the register of electors (including any marked copy notices issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act) and of the list of proxies,

(e) the list prepared under rule 18, including the part completed in accordance with rule 38(1)(b) (together referred to in these Rules as “the completed corresponding number list”),

(f) the certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll,

(g) the tendered votes list, the list of voters with disabilities assisted by companions, the list of votes marked by the presiding officer, a statement of the number of voters whose votes are so marked by the presiding officer under the heads “disability” and “unable to read”, the list maintained under rule 44, and the declarations made by the companions of voters with disabilities,

and must deliver the packets or cause them to be delivered to the CRO to be taken charge of by him; but if the packets are not delivered by the presiding officer personally to the CRO, the arrangements for their delivery must be approved by the CRO.

(2) The contents of the packets referred to in paragraph (1)(b), (c) and (f) must not be combined with the contents of the packets made under the corresponding rule that applies at any other Authority election.

(3) The marked copies of the register of electors and of the list of proxies must be in one packet but must not be in the same packet as the completed corresponding number list or the certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll.

(4) The packets must be accompanied by a statement (“the ballot paper account”) showing the number of ballot papers entrusted to the presiding officer, and accounting for them under the heads—

(a) ballot papers issued and not otherwise accounted for,

(b) unused ballot papers,

(c) spoilt ballot papers, and

(d) tendered ballot papers.

(5) At an ordinary election, the statement referred to in paragraph (4) may be combined with the statements produced in relation to other Authority elections and the combined statement must be arranged in such manner as the GLRO may direct.

Attendance at verification and the counting of votes U.K.

47.—(1) As soon as practicable after the close of the poll, the CRO must make arrangements for carrying out, in the presence of the counting agents, the verification and counting of votes at the election and must give to the counting agents notice in writing of the time and place at which he will begin to verify and count the votes.

(2) No person other than—

(a) the CRO and his clerks and technical assistants,

(b) the GLRO,

(c) the candidates and one other person chosen by each of them,

(d) the election agents,

(e) the counting agents,

(f) persons who are entitled to attend by virtue of any of sections 6A to 6D of the 2000 Act,

may be present at the verification and counting of the votes, unless permitted by the CRO to attend.

(3) A person not entitled to attend at the verification and counting of the votes must not be permitted to do so by the CRO unless the CRO—

(a) is satisfied that the efficient conduct of those proceedings will not be impeded, and

(b) has either consulted the candidates or thought it impracticable to do so.

(4) The CRO must give the counting agents all such reasonable facilities for overseeing the proceedings, and all such information with respect to them, as he can give them consistently with the orderly conduct of the proceedings and the discharge of his duties in connection with them.

Use of the electronic counting system U.K.

48.—(1) The GLRO may provide the CRO with an electronic counting system consisting of computer hardware, software and other equipment or services, for the purpose of counting the number of ballot papers, to verify the ballot paper accounts and to count the votes cast on them.

(2) Any verification of ballot paper accounts, count or re-count at the election conducted using the electronic counting system must be conducted in accordance with rule 49.

(3) If the GLRO has provided the CRO with an electronic counting system for use at the election, the CRO must obtain the prior written consent of the GLRO before he may conduct the verification of ballot paper accounts or count the votes manually.

(4) If the verification of ballot paper accounts, count or re-count has commenced using the electronic counting system but has not been completed, the CRO may, if he considers it appropriate, discontinue the count and instead count the votes manually.

(5) Where the count or a re-count has been conducted using the electronic counting system, the CRO may, if he considers it appropriate, conduct any re-count without using that system.

(6) Where verification or any count or re-count is conducted using the electronic counting system, any of the steps referred to rule 49, in so far as practicable, may be undertaken—

(a) concurrently with any other of those steps, or

(b) in a different order.

Verification and the count U.K.

49.—(1) The CRO must—

(a) open the ballot boxes from each polling station together, in the presence of the counting agents appointed for the purposes of the election and any other Authority election with which is its combined,

(b) cause the electronic counting system to count such of the postal ballot papers as have been duly returned in accordance with paragraphs (2) and (3) and record separately the number counted,

(c) not mix the contents of any ballot box with the contents of any other ballot box during the conduct of any count or re-count.

(2) A postal ballot paper must not be taken to be duly returned unless—

(a) it is returned in the manner set out in paragraph (3) and reaches the CRO or any polling station in the Assembly constituency that includes the electoral area for which the elector is registered as a local government elector, before the close of the poll,

(b) the postal voting statement, duly signed, is also returned in the manner set out in paragraph (3) and reaches him or such polling station before that time,

(c) the postal voting statement also states the date of birth of the elector or proxy (as the case may be), and

(d) in a case where the steps for verifying the date of birth and signature of an elector or proxy have been prescribed by regulations made under the 1983 Act M28 , the CRO (having taken such steps) verifies the date of birth and signature of the elector or proxy (as the case may be).

(3) The manner in which any postal paper or postal voting statement may be returned—

(a) to the CRO, is by hand or by post,

(b) to a polling station in the Assembly constituency, is by hand.

[F30 (3A) A postal ballot paper or postal voting statement that reaches the CRO or a polling station mentioned in sub-paragraph (a) of paragraph (2) at or after the close of the poll is treated for the purposes of paragraph (2) as reaching that officer or polling station before the close of the poll if it is delivered by a person who, at the close of the poll, is in the polling station, or in a queue outside the polling station, for the purpose of returning it.]

(4) After completing the proceedings under paragraph (1), the CRO must cause the electronic counting system to process the ballot papers so as to count—

(a) the number of ballot papers, and

(b) votes given on the ballot papers.

(5) The CRO must not cause the electronic counting system to count any tendered ballot paper.

(6) The CRO must verify each ballot paper account by comparing it with the number of ballot papers processed by the electronic counting system, and the unused and spoilt ballot papers in his possession and the tendered votes list (opening and resealing the packets containing the unused and spoilt ballot papers and the tendered votes list) and must draw up a statement as to the result of the verification, which any election agent may copy.

(7) The CRO, while verifying the ballot paper accounts and counting the votes, must take all proper precautions for preventing any person from seeing the numbers printed on the back of the papers.

(8) The CRO must so far as practicable proceed continuously with counting the votes, allowing only time for refreshment, except that the hours between 5 in the afternoon and 10 on the following morning may be excluded.

(9) At an ordinary election, the hours between 5 in the afternoon and 10 on the following morning may only be excluded with the prior consent of the GLRO.

(10) During the time so excluded the CRO must—

(a) place the ballot papers and other documents relating to the election under his own seal and the seals of such of the counting agents as desire to affix their seals, and

(b) otherwise take proper precautions for the security of the papers and documents.

Textual Amendments

F30 Sch. 1 rule 49(3A) inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 9(1)(b)

Marginal Citations

M28 See regulation 85 and 85A of the Representation of the People (England and Wales) Regulations 2001 (S.I. 2001/341), which were inserted by S.I. 2006/2910.

Rejected ballot papers U.K.

50.—(1) Any ballot paper—

(a) which does not bear the official mark,

(b) on which votes are given for more than one candidate,

(c) on which anything is written or marked by which the voter can be identified except the printed number and other unique identifying mark on the back,

(d) which is unmarked, or

(e) which is void for uncertainty,

is, subject to paragraph (2), void and must not be counted.

(2) A ballot paper on which the vote is marked–

(a) elsewhere than in the proper place, or

(b) otherwise than by means of a cross, or

(c) by more than one mark,

must not for such reason be void if an intention that the vote be given for one only of the candidates clearly appears, and the way the paper is marked does not itself identify the voter and it is not shown that he can be identified by it.

(3) Where the electronic counting system identifies a ballot paper that has been marked, but which appears for whatever reason to be void, it must be examined by a clerk appointed by the CRO in the manner referred to in paragraph (6).

(4) If the clerk, having examined the ballot, considers that the vote is void then the CRO must examine it in the manner referred to in paragraph (6).

(5) After the CRO examines the ballot paper, he must give his decision as to the validity of the vote.

(6) An examination under paragraph (3) or (4) is to be made by the clerk or CRO examining an image of the ballot paper which is shown on a screen so as to be visible to those attending the count.

(7) The CRO may examine any ballot paper that he is not required to examine in accordance with paragraph (4)—

(a) either in the manner referred to in paragraph (6), or

(b) by examining a paper copy,

and where the CRO does so, he must give a decision on that paper in accordance with paragraph (5).

(8) No person attending the count is to be entitled to require the clerk or CRO to examine a ballot paper or to provide a paper copy for inspection.

(9) A record of the CRO's decision must be retained in the electronic counting system together with, in the case of a decision that the ballot paper is void, his reasons by reference to paragraph (1).

(10) If a counting agent objects to the CRO's decision the CRO must record on the electronic counting system that the decision was objected to.

(11) The CRO must draw up a statement showing the number of ballot papers rejected under the several heads of—

(a) want of an official mark,

(b) voting for more than one candidate,

(c) writing or mark by which the voter could be identified,

(d) unmarked ballot paper, or

(e) void for uncertainty.

(12) As soon as practicable after the completion of the statement under paragraph (11) the CRO must inform—

(a) such candidates, election agents and counting agents as are present at the count, and

(b) the GLRO,

of its contents.

Decisions on ballot papers U.K.

51.  The decision of the CRO on any question arising in respect of a ballot paper will be final, but may be subject to review on an election petition.

Re-count U.K.

52.—(1) A candidate or his election agent or a counting agent authorised under rule 30(3) may, if present when the counting or any re-count of the votes, is completed, require the CRO to have the votes re-counted or again re-counted but the CRO may refuse to do so if in his opinion the request is unreasonable.

(2) No step may be taken on the completion of the counting or any re-count of votes until the candidates and election agents present at its completion have been given a reasonable opportunity to exercise the right conferred by this rule.

(3) The CRO may determine the extent to which any re-count involves the electronic counting of votes.

(4) When the returning officer uses the electronic counting system for the re-counting of votes, he must not re-consider any decision made on any ballot paper under rule 50(5).

Equality of votes U.K.

53.  Where, after the counting of the votes (including any re-count) is completed, an equality of votes is found to exist between any candidates and the addition of a vote would entitle any of those candidates to be declared elected, the CRO must forthwith decide between those candidates by lot, and proceed as if the candidate on whom the lot falls had received an additional vote.

PART 5 U.K. Final Proceedings In Contested And Uncontested Elections

Declaration of result U.K.

54.—(1) In a contested election, when the result of the poll has been ascertained, the CRO must forthwith—

(a) declare to be elected the candidate to whom the majority of votes has been given,

(b) give public notice of—

(i) the name of the person declared to be elected,

(ii) the person's authorised description, if any, within the meaning of rule 6(5) or (7),

(iii) the total number of votes given for each candidate together with the number of rejected ballot papers under each head shown in the statement of rejected ballot papers.

(2) Subject to paragraph (3), after the CRO complies with paragraph (1), he may give public notice of the information referred to paragraph (1)(b)(iii) so as to set out the number of votes falling under each of the heads in that subparagraph, in respect of each ward.

(3) Where the sum of F31 ... votes given for all candidates in any ward does not exceed 500, the GLRO must not give notice under paragraph (2) in respect of that ward alone, but must amalgamate the figures for that ward with those for any other ward in which more than 500 votes have been given, in the same Assembly constituency.

(4) In an uncontested election, the CRO must as soon as practicable after the latest time for the delivery of notices of withdrawals of candidature—

(a) declare to be elected the candidate remaining validly nominated,

(b) give public notice of—

(i) the name of the person declared to be elected, and

(ii) the person's authorised description, if any, within the meaning of rule 6(5) or (7).

(5) The CRO must as soon as practicable notify the GLRO and the proper officer of the Authority of the information in the notice given under (1)(b).

Textual Amendments

F31 Words in Sch. 1 rule 54(3) omitted (1.3.2012) by virtue of The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2012 (S.I. 2012/198), rules 1(1), 3(3)

Return or forfeiture of candidate's deposit U.K.

55.—(1) Unless forfeited in accordance with paragraph (5), the deposit made under rule 8 must be returned to the person making it or his personal representative.

(2) Subject to paragraphs (3) and (4), the deposit must be returned not later than the next day after that on which the result of the election is declared.

(3) For the purposes of paragraph (2)—

(a) a day must be disregarded if, in accordance with rule 4, it would be disregarded in computing any period of time for the purposes of the timetable for the election, and

(b) the deposit must be treated as being returned on a day if a cheque for the amount of the deposit is posted on that day.

(4) If the candidate is not shown as standing nominated in the statement of persons nominated, or if the poll is countermanded or abandoned by reason of his death, the deposit must be returned as soon as practicable after the publication of the statement or after his death, as the case may be.

(5) Where a poll is taken, if, after the counting of the votes by the CRO (including any re-count) is completed, the candidate is found not to have polled more than one-twentieth of the total number of votes polled by all the candidates, the deposit must be forfeited to the Greater London Authority.

PART 6 U.K. Disposal of Documents

Sealing up of ballot papers U.K.

56.—(1) On the completion of the counting at a contested election the CRO must seal up in separate packets the counted and rejected ballot papers.

(2) Where some or all of the votes have been counted using the electronic counting system, the CRO must also seal up in a separate packet a complete electronic record (“the electronic record”) of the information stored in the electronic counting system, held in such device as may be suitable for the purpose of its storage.

(3) After making the electronic record under paragraph (2), the CRO must arrange for the original records in the electronic counting system to be removed from it and destroyed in a manner that ensures that the secrecy of those records is preserved.

(4) The CRO must not open the sealed packets of—

(a) tendered ballot papers,

(b) certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll,

(c) the completed corresponding number lists, or

(d) marked copies of the register of electors (including any marked copy notices issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act) and list of proxies.

Delivery and retention of documents U.K.

57.—(1) The CRO must then forward the following documents to the relevant registration officer—

(a) the packets of ballot papers in his possession,

(b) the packet containing the electronic record (if any),

(c) the ballot paper accounts and the statements of rejected ballot papers and of the result of the verification of the ballot paper accounts,

(d) the tendered votes lists, the lists of voters with disabilities assisted by companions, the lists of votes marked by the presiding officer and the related statements, the lists maintained under rule 44 and the declarations made by the companions of voters with disabilities,

(e) the packets of the completed corresponding number lists,

(f) the packets of certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll, and

(g) the packets containing marked copies of registers (including any marked copy notices issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act) and of the postal voters list, of the lists of proxies and of the proxy postal voters list,

endorsing on each packet a description of its contents, the date of the election to which they relate and the name of the Assembly constituency for which the election was held.

Orders for production of documents U.K.

58.—(1) An order—

(a) for the inspection or production of any rejected ballot papers in the custody of the relevant registration officer, or

(b) for the opening of a packet containing the electronic record or a sealed packet of completed corresponding number lists or certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll or the inspection of any counted ballot papers, in the custody of the relevant registration officer,

may be made by a county court, if the court is satisfied by evidence on oath that the order is required for the purpose of instituting or maintaining a prosecution for an offence in relation to ballot papers, or for the purpose of an election petition.

(2) An election court may make an order for the opening of a packet containing the electronic record or a sealed packet of completed corresponding number lists or certificates or for the inspection of any counted ballot papers in the custody of the relevant registration officer.

(3) An order under this rule may be made subject to such conditions as to—

(a) persons,

(b) time,

(c) place and mode of inspection,

(d) production or opening,

as the court making the order thinks expedient; but in making and carrying into effect an order for the opening of a packet containing the electronic record or a packet of completed corresponding number lists or certificates or for the inspection of counted ballot papers, care must be taken that the way in which the vote of any particular elector has been given must not be disclosed until it has been proved—

(i) that his vote was given, and

(ii) that the vote has been declared by a competent court to be invalid.

(4) An appeal lies to the High Court from any order of a county court under this rule.

(5) Any power given under this rule to a county court may be exercised by any judge of the court otherwise than in open court.

(6) Where an order is made for the production by the relevant registration officer of any document or electronic record in his custody relating to any specified election—

(a) the production by him or his agent of the document or electronic record ordered in such manner as may be directed by that order will be conclusive evidence that the document or electronic record relates to the specified election, and

(b) any endorsement on any packet of ballot papers or so produced will be prima facie evidence that the ballot papers are what they are stated to be by the endorsement.

(7) The production from proper custody of —

(a) a ballot paper purporting to have been used at any election, or

(b) a copy of the electronic record which purports to record that a particular ballot paper was used at any election, and

a completed corresponding number list with a number written beside the number of the ballot paper, will be prima facie evidence that the elector whose vote was given by that ballot paper was the person who, at the time of the election, had affixed to his entry in the register of electors or on the notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act, the same number as was written on the completed corresponding number list.

(8) Unless authorised by this rule, no person may be allowed to inspect any rejected or counted ballot papers in the custody of the relevant registration officer or open any sealed packets of completed corresponding number lists, certificates of employment on the day of the poll or containing the electronic record.

Retention and destruction of documents and records U.K.

59.  The relevant registration officer must retain or cause to be retained for one year all documents and, where applicable, the electronic record relating to an election forwarded to him in pursuance of these Rules by a CRO, and then, unless otherwise directed by an order of a county court, a Crown Court, a magistrate's court or an election court, must cause them to be destroyed.

PART 7 U.K. Death Of Candidate

Countermand or abandonment of poll on death of candidate U.K.

60.—(1) If at a contested election proof is given to the CRO's satisfaction before the result of the election is declared that one of the persons named or to be named as candidate in the ballot papers has died, the CRO—

(a) must countermand notice of the poll or, if polling has begun, direct that the poll be abandoned,

(b) must inform the GLRO of the countermand or abandonment of the poll and of the name of the candidate who has died.

(2) Subsection (1) of section 39 (local elections void etc. in England and Wales) of the 1983 Act applies in respect of any vacancy which remains unfilled as if for the reference to the returning officer there were substituted a reference to the CRO.

(3) Where the poll is abandoned by reason of a candidate's death, no further ballot papers may be issued, and the presiding officer at any polling station must take the like steps (so far as not already taken) for the delivery to the CRO of ballot boxes and of ballot papers and other documents in his possession as he is required to take on the close of the poll in due course.

(4) The CRO must dispose of the ballot papers and other documents in his possession as he is required to do on the completion in due course of the counting of the votes, subject to paragraphs (5) and (6).

(5) It is not be necessary for any ballot paper account to be prepared or verified.

(6) The CRO must seal up all the ballot papers, whether the votes on them have been counted or not, and it will not be necessary to seal up counted and rejected ballot papers in separate packets.

(7) The provisions of these Rules as to the inspection, production, retention and destruction of ballot papers and other documents relating to a poll at an election apply to any such documents relating to a poll abandoned by reason of a candidate's death, subject to paragraphs (8) and (9).

(8) Ballot papers on which the votes were neither counted nor rejected must be treated as counted ballot papers.

(9) No order may be made for—

(a) the production or inspection of any ballot papers, or

(b) for the opening of a sealed packet of completed corresponding number lists or certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll,

unless the order is made by a court with reference to a prosecution.

Rule 3(3)

SCHEDULE 2 U.K. THE LONDON MEMBERS ELECTION RULES

PART 1 U.K. General Provisions

Citation U.K.

1.  This Schedule may be cited as the London Members Election Rules.

Interpretation U.K.

2.—(1) In the rules in this Schedule, unless the context indicates otherwise—

“election” means an election for the return of the London members;

“individual candidate” means a candidate other than a list candidate at an election for the return of London members;

“list candidate” means a person included on a party list;

“local count” means the count of the London votes given for a registered party or, as the case may be, an individual candidate, at an election in an Assembly constituency;

“London vote” has the same meaning as in Part 1 of the 1999 Act;

“party list” means a list delivered to the GLRO in accordance with paragraph 5 (party lists and individual candidates) of Part 2 of Schedule 2 to the 1999 Act on behalf of a party registered under Part 2 (registration of political parties) of the 2000 Act.

(2) Reference to a rule by number alone is a reference to the rule so numbered in this Schedule.

PART 2 U.K. Provisions As To Time

Timetable U.K.

3.  The proceedings at the election must be conducted in accordance with the following timetable:

Timetable

Proceedings	Time
Publication of notice of election	Not later than the thirtieth day before the day of election.
Delivery of nomination papers [F32 and party lists]	Not later than [F33 4 in the afternoon] on the twenty–fourth day before the day of election.
[F34 Delivery of notices of withdrawals of candidature	Not later than 4 in the afternoon on the twenty-fourth day before the day of election]
Publication of statement as to persons nominated	Not later than [F35 4 in the afternoon] on the twenty-second day before the day of election.
F36 . . .	F36 . . .
Notice of poll	Not later than the sixth day before the day of election.
Polling	Between the hours of 7 in the morning and 10 at night on the day of election.

Textual Amendments

F32 Words in Sch. 2 rule 3 inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(6)(a)(i)

F33 Words in Sch. 2 rule 3 substituted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(6)(a)(ii)

F34 Words in Sch. 2 rule 3 inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(6)(b)

F35 Words in Sch. 2 rule 3 substituted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(6)(c)

F36 Words in Sch. 2 rule 3 omitted (8.2.2016) by virtue of The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(6)(d)

Computation of time U.K.

4.—(1) In computing any period of time for the purposes of the Timetable—

(a) a Saturday or Sunday,

(b) Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Good Friday or a bank holiday, or

(c) a day appointed for public thanksgiving or mourning,

must be disregarded, and any such day must not be treated as a day for the purpose of any proceedings up to the completion of the poll nor must the CRO be obliged to proceed with the counting of the votes on such a day.

(2) In this rule, “bank holiday” means a day which is a bank holiday under the Banking and Financial Dealings Act 1971 M29 in England and Wales.

Marginal Citations

M29 1971 c. 80

PART 3 U.K. Stages Common To Contested And Uncontested Elections

Notice of election U.K.

5.—(1) The GLRO must publish in each Assembly constituency notice of the election stating—

(a) the place and times at which nomination papers and party lists are to be delivered, and

(b) the date of the poll in the event of a contest,

and the notice must state that forms of nomination papers and party lists may be obtained at that place and those times.

(2) The notice of election must state the arrangements (if any) which apply for the payment of the deposit required by rule 10 by means of the electronic transfer of funds.

(3) The notice of election must state the date by which—

(a) applications to vote by post or proxy, and

(b) other applications and notices about postal or proxy voting,

must reach the registration officer for local government electors in order that they may be effective for the election.

Nomination of candidates: individual candidates U.K.

6.—(1) Each individual candidate must be nominated by a separate nomination paper that must be—

(a) in the appropriate form, and

(b) delivered to the GLRO in accordance with the following provisions of this rule and rule 8.

(2) The nomination paper of an individual candidate must state the candidate's—

(a) full names,

(b) home address, in full, and

(c) if desired, a description consisting of the word “independent”,

and the surname must be placed first in the list of names.

Nomination of candidates: list candidates U.K.

7.—(1) A registered party which is a qualifying party and is to stand at the election of London members must be nominated by the delivery of a nomination paper which must be—

(a) in the appropriate form, and

(b) delivered to the GLRO by the party's registered nominating officer, or a person authorised in writing by him, in accordance with the following provisions of this rule and rule 8.

(2) The registered party's nomination paper must—

(a) state the authorised description by which the registered party is to stand for election,

(b) include a statement, signed by the person issuing the paper, that it is issued either—

(i) by the party's registered nominating officer, or

(ii) on behalf of the party's registered nominating officer by a person authorised in writing by him, and

(c) be accompanied by a party list which sets out the full names and home addresses of each candidate included in that list.

(3) An authorised description for the purposes of paragraph (2)(a) must be either—

(a) the name of the party registered under section 28 of the 2000 Act M30 , or

(b) a description of the party, registered under section 28A M31 of that Act.

(4) A person will be guilty of a corrupt practice if he fraudulently purports to be authorised to make the statement required by paragraph (2)(b) by or on behalf of a registered party's nominating officer.

(5) For the purposes of the application of these rules in relation to an election—

(a) “registered party” means a party which was registered under Part 2 of the 2000 Act on the day (“the relevant day”) which is two days before the last day for the delivery of nomination papers and party lists at that election,

(b) a registered party is a qualifying party if on the relevant day the party was registered in respect of England in the Great Britain register maintained under that Part of that Act.

Marginal Citations

M30 Section 28 of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 (c.41) was amended by S.I. 2004/366 and by section 48 of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22).

M31 Section 28A of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 (c.41) was inserted by section 49(1) of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22).

Nomination papers: general provisions U.K.

8.—(1) The following provisions of this rule have effect in relation to nomination papers delivered under rules 6 and 7.

(2) If an individual candidate or a candidate included on a party list commonly uses—

(a) a surname which is different from any other surname he has, or

(b) a forename which is different from any other forename he has,

the nomination paper and party list may state the commonly used surname or forename, or both surname and forename in addition to the other name.

(3) Each nomination paper must be delivered to the GLRO at the place specified by him in the notice of election, which must be at one of the offices of the Greater London Authority, and must be received by the GLRO before the last time for the delivery of nomination papers.

(4) Where a nomination paper is delivered in respect of—

(a) the same registered party, or

(b) the same individual candidate,

after an earlier nomination paper has been delivered, that later paper must be deemed to supersede the earlier one.

(5) In this rule and in the following provisions of these rules, unless the context requires otherwise—

(a) “nomination paper” includes a reference to—

(i) the nomination paper of a registered party, and

(ii) the nomination paper of an individual candidate;

(b) “nomination paper of a registered party” includes a reference to a party list.

Consent to nomination U.K.

9.—(1) A person will not be validly nominated (whether as an individual candidate or a list candidate) unless his consent to nomination—

(a) is given in writing in the appropriate form, or a form to like effect, on or within one month before the last day for the delivery of nomination papers;

(b) is attested by one witness whose name and address must be given; and

(c) is delivered at the place and within the time for delivery of nomination papers.

(2) A candidate's consent given under this rule must—

(a) state the day, month and year of his birth;

(b) contain a statement that he has read whichever of sub-paragraphs (5) and (6) of paragraph 5 of Schedule 2 to the 1999 Act (persons who many not be candidates) applies in his case; and

(c) contain a statement that to the best of the candidate's knowledge and belief he is not disqualified from being elected by reason of—

(i) any disqualification set out in section 21 (disqualification from being the Mayor or an Assembly member) of the 1999 Act, F37 ...

[F38 (ii) a decision made under section 78A of the Local Government Act 2000 (decisions of First-tier tribunal), or

(iii) an order made under section 34(4) of the Localism Act 2011(offences).]

Textual Amendments

F37 Word in Sch. 2 rule 9(2)(c) omitted (8.2.2016) by virtue of The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 7(2)(a)

F38 Sch. 2 rule 9(2)(c)(ii)(iii) substituted for Sch. 2 rule 9(2)(c)(ii) (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 7(2)(b)

Deposits U.K.

10.—(1) A person will not be validly nominated as an individual candidate at the election unless the sum of £5,000 is deposited by him, or on his behalf, with the GLRO at the place and during the time for delivery of nomination papers and party lists.

(2) A registered party (and anyone on its party list) will not be validly nominated unless the sum of £5,000 is deposited on its behalf with the GLRO at the place and during the time for delivery of nomination papers and party lists.

(3) The deposit may be made either—

(a) by the deposit of any legal tender, or

(b) by means of a banker's draft, or

(c) with the GLRO's consent, in any other manner including by means of a debit or credit card or the electronic transfer of funds,

but the GLRO may refuse to accept a deposit sought to be made by means of a banker's draft if he does not know that the drawer carries on business as a banker in the United Kingdom.

(4) Where the deposit is made on behalf of an individual candidate, the person making the deposit must at the time he makes it give his name and address to the GLRO, unless they have previously been given to him under section 67 (appointment of election agent) of the 1983 Act.

Decisions as to validity of nomination papers U.K.

11.—(1) Where, in the case of an individual candidate, a nomination paper (“individual nomination paper”) and the candidate's consent to it are delivered, and a deposit is made, in accordance with these Rules, the candidate will be deemed to stand nominated unless and until—

(a) the GLRO decides that the nomination paper is invalid, or

(b) proof is given to the GLRO's satisfaction of the candidate's death, or

(c) the candidate withdraws.

(2) Where the nomination paper of a registered party and the consent of each candidate included in that party's list are delivered, and a deposit is made, in accordance with these Rules, that party and (subject to paragraph (6)) each candidate on its list must be deemed to stand nominated unless and until the GLRO decides that the nomination paper is invalid.

(3) As soon as practicable after each nomination paper has been delivered, the GLRO must examine it and decide whether the individual candidate, or as the case may be each registered party and each candidate included in that party's list, has been validly nominated.

(4) The GLRO is entitled to hold an individual nomination paper invalid only on the grounds that the particulars of the candidate on the nomination paper are not as required by law.

(5) The GLRO is entitled to hold the nomination paper of a registered party invalid only on one of the following grounds—

(a) that the authorised description stated under rule 7(2)(a) breaches rule 7(3);

(b) that the nomination paper does not contain the statement referred to in rule 7(2)(b);

(c) that the number of candidates on the list is greater than 25.

(6) Where, in respect of a candidate included in a party list—

(a) proof is given to the GLRO's satisfaction of his death;

(b) he withdraws or his candidature is withdrawn in accordance with rule 15;

(c) his particulars in that list are not as required by law;

(d) the consent to nomination of that candidate is not delivered in accordance with rule 9,

the GLRO must delete the name and address of that candidate from the list.

(7) Where the GLRO has decided under paragraph (3)—

(a) that an individual nomination paper is invalid,

(b) that the nomination paper of a registered party is invalid or that the name and address of a list candidate must be deleted from the list,

he must endorse and sign on the nomination paper to record that decision and the reasons for his decision.

(8) The GLRO must, as soon as practicable after making such a decision under paragraph (3) that a nomination paper is valid or invalid, send notice of that decision—

(a) to the candidate at his home address as given in his nomination paper, and

(b) in the case of a list candidate, also to the nominating officer.

(9) Where in the GLRO's opinion the nomination paper of a registered party is invalid on the grounds in paragraphs (5)(a) or (b), then he must give a decision to that effect—

(a) as soon as practicable after the delivery of the nomination paper, and

(b) in any event, before the end of the period of 24 hours starting with the end of the period for the delivery of nomination papers set out in the timetable in rule 3.

(10) The GLRO's decision that a nomination paper is valid is final and may not be questioned in any proceeding whatsoever.

(11) Subject to paragraph (10), nothing in this rule prevents the validity of a nomination being questioned on an election petition.

Publication of statement of persons nominated U.K.

12.—(1) The GLRO must prepare and publish a statement showing—

(a) each registered party which has been and stands nominated, together with that party's list,

(b) the persons who have been and stand nominated as individual candidates, and

(c) any other parties or persons who have been nominated, together with the reason why they no longer stand nominated.

(2) If an individual's nomination paper or person's entry on a party list gives a commonly used surname or forename, or both surname and forename, in addition to another name, the statement must show the person's commonly used surname or forename, or both surname and forename (as the case may be) instead of any other name.

(3) Paragraph (2) does not apply if the GLRO thinks—

(a) that the use of the person's commonly used name may be likely to mislead or confuse electors, or

(b) that the commonly used name is obscene or offensive.

(4) If paragraph (3) applies, the GLRO must give notice in writing to the candidate of his reasons for refusing to allow the use of a commonly used name.

(5) The statement must show, in the following order—

(a) the registered parties which have been and stand nominated, set out in alphabetical order according to the authorised descriptions given in the nomination papers,

(b) the names and home addresses of the list candidates as given in party lists, arranged in the order in which their names appear in those lists,

(c) the names, addresses and descriptions (if any) of the persons standing nominated as individual candidates, arranged alphabetically in the order of their surnames and, if there are two or more of them with the same surname, of their other names.

(6) In the case of an individual candidate nominated by more than one nomination paper, the GLRO must take the particulars required by the foregoing provisions of this rule from such one of the papers as the candidate (or the GLRO in default of the candidate) may select.

Correction of minor errors U.K.

13.—(1) The GLRO may, if he thinks fit, at any time before the publication under rule 12 of the statement of parties and persons nominated, correct minor errors in a nomination paper.

(2) Errors which may be corrected include—

(a) errors as to a person's electoral number,

(b) obvious errors of spelling in relation to the details of a party or candidate.

(3) Anything done by the GLRO in pursuance of this rule may not be questioned in any proceedings other than proceedings on an election petition.

(4) The GLRO must have regard to any guidance issued by the Electoral Commission for the purposes of this rule.

Inspection of nomination papers and consent to nomination U.K.

14.—(1) During ordinary office hours, in the period starting 24 hours after the latest time for the delivery of nomination papers and before the date of the poll, any person may inspect and take copies of, or extracts from—

(a) a nomination paper, or

(b) the consents to nomination.

(2) Inspection under paragraph (1) may not take place on a day that is specified in rule 4(1).

Withdrawal or death of candidate U.K.

15.—(1) An individual candidate or a candidate on a party's list may withdraw his candidature by notice of withdrawal—

(a) signed by him and attested by one witness, whose name and address must be given, and

(b) delivered to the GLRO at the place for delivery of nomination papers and party lists,

by the end of the period for the delivery of notices of withdrawals of candidature in the timetable in rule 3.

(2) The nominating officer of a registered party, or a person authorised in writing by him may withdraw that party's nomination by a notice of withdrawal signed by him and delivered to the returning officer at the place for delivery of nomination papers and party lists.

(3) Where a candidate is outside the United Kingdom, a notice of withdrawal signed by his election agent and accompanied by a written declaration also so signed of the candidate's absence from the United Kingdom will be of the same effect as a notice of withdrawal signed by the candidate; but where the candidate stands nominated by more than one nomination paper a notice of withdrawal under this paragraph will be effective if, and only if, it is accompanied, in addition to that declaration, by a written statement signed by the candidate that the person giving the notice is authorised to do so on the candidate's behalf during his absence from the United Kingdom.

(4) If before the result of the election is declared, proof is given to the GLRO's satisfaction that an individual candidate who is named (or is to be named) in the ballot papers or a candidate whose name appears on a party list has died, then (in addition to complying with any other requirement of these rules relevant to that event) the GLRO must—

(a) inform each CRO of the death of the candidate;

(b) in the case of a person whose name is included in a party list, remove that person's name from that list.

Method of election U.K.

16.  If, after any withdrawals under rule 15, the number of persons remaining validly nominated exceeds the number of seats available for allocation to London members, then, unless all of those persons are named on the same party list, a poll must be taken in accordance with Part 4 of these Rules.

PART 4 U.K. Contested Elections

Poll to be taken by ballot U.K.

17.  The votes at the poll must be given by ballot to enable the seats for London members to be allocated to registered parties and individual candidates in accordance with paragraphs 7 and 8 of Part 2 of Schedule 2 to the 1999 Act.

The ballot papers U.K.

18.—(1) The ballot of every voter must consist of a ballot paper which must be in the appropriate form.

(2) Each registered party that remains validly nominated at the election and whose party list includes a person who remains validly nominated as a list candidate, after any withdrawals, and no other, is entitled to have its authorised description inserted in the ballot paper.

(3) Each person remaining validly nominated as an individual candidate at the election, after any withdrawals, and no other, is entitled to have their name inserted in the ballot paper.

(4) Every ballot paper—

(a) must [F39 , so far as practicable for the purposes of electronic counting,] be printed in accordance with the directions set out in the Forms Schedule,

(b) must contain the authorised descriptions of the registered parties; and the names and other particulars of the individual candidates as shown in the statement of persons nominated,

(c) must have a number and other unique identifying mark printed on the back, and

(d) may, in the case of ballot papers for use at polling stations, be marked with the words “do not fold”.

(5) If a request is made by or on behalf of a registered party's nominating officer, the ballot paper must contain, against the party's authorised description, the party's registered emblem (or, as the case may be, one of the party's registered emblems).

(6) The request under paragraph (5) must—

(a) be made in writing to the GLRO, and

(b) be received by him during the period for delivery of nomination papers and party lists set out in the timetable in rule 3.

(7) The order of the authorised descriptions of the registered parties and the names of the individual candidates must be in the same order as in the statement of parties and persons nominated.

(8) The GLRO must supply the ballot papers for use at the election to the CRO by such date as may be agreed between them.

(9) The ballot papers supplied under paragraph (8) must be of a different colour from those used at any other Authority election.

Textual Amendments

F39 Words in Sch. 2 rule 18(4)(a) inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 8(2)

The corresponding number list U.K.

19.—(1) The CRO must prepare a list containing the numbers and other unique identifying marks of all of the ballot papers to be issued by him in pursuance of rule 24(1) or provided by him in pursuance of rule 29(1).

(2) The list must be in the appropriate form or a form to like effect.

(3) At an ordinary election, the same list may be used for each Authority election with which the election is combined.

The official mark U.K.

20.—(1) Every ballot paper must contain an appropriate security marking (the official mark).

(2) The official mark must be kept secret, and an interval of not less than five years must intervene between the use of the same official mark at any Authority election.

(3) The GLRO may use a different official mark for different purposes at the same election.

Prohibition of disclosure of vote U.K.

21.  No person who has voted at the election may, in any legal proceeding to question the election, be required to state for which candidate or party he has voted.

Use of schools and public rooms U.K.

22.—(1) The CRO may use, free of charge, for the purpose of taking the poll or counting the votes—

(a) a room in a school maintained or assisted by a [F40 local authority (as defined in the Education Act 1996)] or a school in respect of which grants are made out of moneys provided by Parliament to the person or body of persons responsible for the management of the school,

(b) a room the expense of maintaining which is met by any local authority.

(2) The CRO must make good any damage done to, and defray an expense incurred by the persons having control over, any such room as mentioned in paragraph (1) by reason of its being used for the purpose of taking the poll or counting the votes.

Textual Amendments

F40 Words in Sch. 2 rule 22(1)(a) substituted (5.5.2010) by The Local Education Authorities and Children’s Services Authorities (Integration of Functions) (Local and Subordinate Legislation) Order 2010 (S.I. 2010/1172), art. 1(1), Sch. 3 para. 77(2)

Notice of poll U.K.

23.—(1) The GLRO must, in accordance with the timetable in rule 3, publish notice of the poll stating—

(a) the day and hours fixed for the poll,

(b) the number of seats for London members available for allocation at that election,

(c) the authorised description of each registered party whose party list includes persons who remain validly nominated as list candidates, and

(d) the name and description (if any) of each individual candidate remaining validly nominated,

and rule 12(5) applies in relation to the order in which that information appears on the notice of the poll as it applies in relation to the statement of persons nominated.

(2) The CRO must, not later than the time of the publication of the notice of the poll, also give public notice of—

(a) the situation of each polling station, and

(b) the description of voters entitled to vote there,

and he must as soon as practicable after giving such a notice give a copy of it to each of the election agents.

(3) The notice of poll must include the heading “GREATER LONDON AUTHORITY ELECTION”.

Postal ballot papers U.K.

24.—(1) The CRO must, in accordance with regulations made under the 1983 Act M32 , issue to those entitled to vote by post a ballot paper and a postal voting statement, together with such envelopes for their return as may be prescribed in such regulations.

(2) The postal voting statement must be in the appropriate form, or a form to the like effect.

(3) The postal voting statement must include provision for the form to be signed and for stating the date of birth of the elector or proxy (as the case may be).

(4) The CRO must also issue to those entitled to vote by post such information as he thinks appropriate about how to obtain—

(a) translations into languages other than English of any directions to or guidance for voters sent with the ballot paper,

(b) a translation into Braille of such directions or guidance,

(c) graphical representations of such directions or guidance,

(d) the directions or guidance in any other form (including any audible form).

(5) In the case of a ballot paper issued to a person at an address in the United Kingdom, the CRO must ensure that the return of the ballot paper and postal voting statement is free of charge to the voter.

(6) Where the proceedings on the issue and receipt of postal ballot papers at the election are taken together with any other Authority election the appropriate form of postal voting statement under paragraph (2) may be the joint postal voting statement which must be in the appropriate form or form to like effect.

Marginal Citations

M32 See the Representation of the People (England and Wales) Regulations 2001 S.I. 2001/341 as amended by S.I. 2002/1871, 2006/752 and S.I. 2006/2910.

Provision of polling stations U.K.

25.—(1) The CRO must provide a sufficient number of polling stations and, subject to the following provisions of this rule, must allot the electors to the polling stations in such manner as he thinks most convenient.

(2) One or more polling stations may be provided in the same room.

(3) The polling station allotted to electors from any parliamentary polling district wholly or partly within the Assembly constituency must, in the absence of special circumstances, be in the parliamentary polling place for that district, unless that place is outside the Assembly constituency.

(4) The CRO must provide each polling station with such number of compartments as may be necessary in which the voters can mark their votes screened from observation.

Appointment of presiding officers and clerks U.K.

26.—(1) The CRO must appoint and pay a presiding officer to attend at each polling station and such clerks and technical assistants as may be necessary for the purposes of the election, but he must not appoint any person who has been employed in or about the election by or on behalf of a candidate or a registered party which has been nominated.

(2) The CRO may, if he thinks fit, preside at a polling station and the provisions of this Part relating to a presiding officer apply to the CRO so presiding with the necessary modifications as to things to be done by the CRO to the presiding officer or by the presiding officer to the CRO.

(3) A presiding officer may do, by the clerks appointed to assist him, any act (including the asking of questions) which he is required or authorised by this Part to do at a polling station except order the arrest, exclusion or removal of any person from the polling station.

Issue of official poll cards U.K.

27.—(1) The CRO must as soon as practicable after the publication of the notice of election, send to electors and their proxies an official poll card.

(2) An elector's official poll card must be sent or delivered to his qualifying address, and a proxy's to his address as shown in the list of proxies.

(3) The official poll card must be in the appropriate form or a form to like effect, and must set out—

(a) that the election is of the London members of the London Assembly at an ordinary election,

(b) the elector's name, qualifying address and number on the register,

(c) the date and hours of the poll and the situation of the elector's polling station, and

(d) such other information as the CRO thinks appropriate,

and different information may be provided in pursuance of sub-paragraph (d) to different electors or descriptions of elector.

(4) In the case of an elector with an anonymous entry, instead of containing the matter mentioned in paragraph (3)(b), the polling card must contain such matter as is specified in the appropriate form.

(5) Where the ordinary elections for constituency members and the Mayor are contested, the CRO must issue a combined poll card in the appropriate form.

(6) In this rule “elector” means—

(a) an elector with an entry on the register to be used at the election on the last day for the publication of the notice of the election, and

(b) includes a person then shown in the register as below voting age if (but only if) it appears from the register that he will be of voting age on the day fixed for the poll.

Information for voters U.K.

28.—(1) At an ordinary election, the GLRO may, in addition to a statement by him in an election booklet, include in the booklet information for voters that has been agreed by him with the Electoral Commission.

(2) The information for voters given in the election booklet may include information about—

(a) the office of the Mayor and the London Assembly,

(b) the system of voting at each Authority election,

(c) how to vote in a manner that will ensure a vote is regarded as validly cast, and

subject to paragraph (3), may include any other information given in exercise of the GLRO's duty under section 69 (encouraging electoral participation) of the 2006 Act.

(3) The information for voters must not contain—

(a) any advertising material,

(b) any material referring to a candidate or a registered party, other than by reproduction of a ballot paper which refers equally to all candidates and parties at the ordinary election,

(c) any material referring to the holder, at any time, of the office of Mayor or Assembly member, other than under paragraph (b) as a candidate at the ordinary election.

(4) Information published in an election booklet under this rule must be printed on not more than two sides of A5 paper.

Equipment of polling stations U.K.

29.—(1) The CRO must provide each presiding officer with—

(a) such ballot papers as may be necessary, and

(b) such ballot boxes as may be necessary having taken account of any direction made by the GLRO in accordance with paragraph (9).

(2) Every ballot box must be so constructed that the ballot papers can be put in it, but cannot be withdrawn from it, without the box being unlocked or, where the box has no lock, the seal being broken.

(3) The CRO must provide each polling station with—

(a) materials to enable voters to mark the ballot papers,

(b) copies of the register of electors or such part of it as contains the entries relating to the electors allotted to the station,

(c) the parts of any special lists prepared for the election corresponding to the register of electors or the part of it provided under sub-paragraph (b),

(d) a notice of the death of any person of whose death he has been informed as mentioned in rule 15(4),

(e) a list consisting of that part of the list prepared under rule 19 which contains the numbers (but not the other unique identifying marks) corresponding to those on the ballot papers provided to the presiding officer of the polling station.

(4) The reference in paragraph (3)(b) to the copies of the register of electors includes a reference to copies of any notices issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act M33 in respect of alterations to the register.

(5) The CRO must also provide each polling station with a device for enabling voters who are blind or partially sighted to vote without any need for assistance from the presiding officer or any companion within the meaning of rule 41.

(6) The device referred to in paragraph (5) above must—

(a) allow a ballot paper to be inserted into and removed from or attached to and detached from the device, easily and without damage to the paper,

(b) keep the ballot paper firmly in place during use,

(c) provide suitable means for the voter to—

(i) identify the spaces on the ballot paper on which he may mark his vote,

(ii) identify the candidate to whom each such space refers, and

(iii) mark his vote on the space he has chosen.

(7) The enlarged sample copies of the ballot paper that the GLRO is required to provide, or cause to be displayed at every polling station (in accordance with section 199B(5) and (7) of the 1983 Act) must—

(a) be provided to the CRO who will deliver them to the polling stations, and

(b) be of the same colour as the ballot paper at the election.

(8) The CRO must also provide each polling station with notices for the guidance of voters, which must be exhibited—

(a) outside the polling station,

(b) inside the polling station—

(i) in the communal areas, and

(ii) in every voting compartment.

(9) If the GLRO thinks fit he may, not later than the date of the notice of election, direct the CRO that joint ballot boxes must be used for the ballot papers at the election and any or all Authority elections with which the election is taken.

Marginal Citations

M33 Section 13B of the 1983 Act was inserted by paragraph 3 of Schedule 2 to the Representation of the People Act 2000 (c.2) and amended by section 11(3) of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22). Subsections (3B) and (3D) of section 13B were inserted by section 11(4) of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22).

Notices for the guidance of voters U.K.

30.—(1) The GLRO must prepare and provide each CRO with the notices to be exhibited under rule 29(8).

(2) The GLRO may also provide each CRO with versions of the notices in such other form as he thinks appropriate, in accordance with section 199B (translations etc of certain documents) of the 1983 Act.

(3) Notices for the guidance of voters exhibited under rule 28(8) or paragraph (2) must be in the appropriate form, but may include such alternative information relating to Authority elections as—

(a) meets with the requirements of the Notices Schedule, and

(b) the GLRO may decide.

(4) Notices provided under paragraph (2) may, if the CRO agrees, be exhibited at any polling station—

(a) outside the polling station,

(b) inside the polling station, or

(c) in every compartment of the polling station.

Appointment of polling and counting agents U.K.

31.—(1) Before the commencement of the poll—

(a) each individual candidate, and

(b) the election agent of each list candidate,

may appoint—

(i) polling agents to attend at polling stations for the purpose of detecting personation, and

(ii) counting agents to attend at the local count.

(2) The same person may be appointed as a polling agent or counting agent by, or in the case of list candidates on behalf of, more than one candidate.

(3) For each local count, one (but no more than one) counting agent of each registered party standing nominated or individual candidate, as the case may be, may be authorised by the terms of his appointment to require a re-count at that count.

(4) Not more than four polling agents, or such greater number as the CRO may by notice allow, may be permitted to attend at any particular polling station.

(5) If the number of such agents appointed to attend at a particular polling station exceeds that number, the CRO must determine by lot which agents are permitted to attend, and only the agents on whom the lot falls will be deemed to have been duly appointed.

(6) The CRO may limit the number of counting agents, but in doing so must ensure that—

(a) the number is the same in the case of each candidate, and

(b) the number allowed to a candidate must not (except in special circumstances) be less than the number obtained by dividing the number of clerks employed on the counting by the number of candidates.

(7) For the purposes of the calculations required by paragraph (6)—

(a) a counting agent appointed for more than one list candidate must be deemed to be appointed for all the candidates on that list,

(b) a counting agent appointed for more than one candidate (other than a list candidate) is a separate agent for each of the candidates for whom he has been appointed.

(8) Notice in writing of the appointment of polling and counting agents, stating the names and addresses of the persons appointed, must be given by the candidate to the CRO and must be so given not later than the fifth day (computed in accordance with rule 4) before the day of the poll.

(9) If an agent dies, or becomes incapable of acting, the candidate or, as the case may be, the election agent, may appoint another person in his place, and must forthwith give to the CRO notice in writing of the name and address of that other person.

(10) Any appointment authorised by this rule may be made and the notice of appointment given to the CRO by the candidate's election agent, instead of by the candidate.

(11) In the following provisions of these Rules references to polling agents and counting agents must be taken as references to agents—

(a) whose appointments have been duly made and notified, and

(b) where the number of agents is restricted, who are within the permitted numbers.

(12) Any notice required to be given to a counting agent by the CRO may be delivered at, or sent by post to, the address stated in the notice of appointment.

(13) A candidate may himself do any act or thing which any polling or counting agent of his, if appointed, would have been authorised to do, or may assist his agent in doing any such act or thing.

(14) A candidate's election agent may do or assist in doing anything which a polling or counting agent of his is authorised to do; and anything required or authorised by these Rules to be done in the presence of the polling or counting agent may be done in the presence of a candidate's election agent instead of his polling agent or counting agent.

(15) Where by these Rules any act or thing is required or authorised to be done in the presence of the polling or counting agents, the non-attendance of any agent or agents at the time and place appointed for the purpose will not, if the act or thing is otherwise duly done, invalidate the act or thing done.

Notification of requirement of secrecy U.K.

32.— [F41 (1)] The CRO must make such arrangements as he thinks fit to ensure that—

(a) every person attending at a polling station (otherwise than for the purpose of voting or assisting a voter with disabilities to vote or as a constable on duty there) has been given a copy of the provisions of subsections (1), (3) and (6) of section 66 (requirement of secrecy) of the Representation of the People Act 1983 M34 , and

(b) every person attending at the counting of the votes (other than any constable on duty at the counting) has been given a copy of the provisions of subsections (2) and (6) of that section.

[F42 (2) In paragraph (1) a reference to a constable includes a person designated as a community support officer under section 38 of the 2002 Act (police powers for employees).]

Textual Amendments

F41 Sch. 2 rule 32 renumbered as Sch. 2 rule 32(1) (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 5(3)(a)

F42 Sch. 2 rule 32(2) inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 5(3)(a)

Marginal Citations

M34 1983 c. 2; Section 66 of that Act was amended by the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c. 22).

Return of postal ballot papers U.K.

33.—(1) Where—

(a) a postal vote has been returned in respect of a person who is entered on the postal voters list, or

(b) a proxy postal vote has been returned in respect of a proxy who is entered on the proxy postal voters list,

the CRO must mark the list in the manner prescribed by regulations made under the 1983 Act M35 .

(2) Rule 50(2) does not apply for the purpose of determining whether, for the purposes of this rule, a postal vote or a proxy postal vote is returned.

Marginal Citations

M35 1983 c. 2; Regulation 84A of the Representation of the People (England and Wales) Regulations 2001 S.I. 2001/341 as amended by S.I. 2006/2910 provides the circumstances in which a postal vote should be treated as returned for this purpose.

Admission to polling station U.K.

34.—(1) The presiding officer must exclude all persons from the polling station except—

(a) voters,

(b) persons under the age of 18 who accompany voters to the polling station,

(c) the candidates and their election agents,

(d) the polling agents appointed to attend at the polling station,

(e) the clerks appointed to attend at the polling station,

(f) persons who are entitled to attend by virtue of any of sections 6A to 6D of the 2000 Act,

(g) the constables on duty, and

(h) the companions of voters with disabilities.

(2) The presiding officer must regulate the total number of voters and persons under the age of 18 who accompany them to be admitted to the polling station at the same time.

(3) Not more than one polling agent may be admitted at the same time to a polling station on behalf of the same party or individual candidate.

(4) A constable or person employed by the CRO must not be admitted to vote in person elsewhere than at his own polling station allotted to him under these Rules, except on production and surrender of a certificate as to his employment which must be in the appropriate form and signed by an officer of the police of or above the rank of inspector or by the CRO, as the case may be.

(5) Any certificate surrendered under this rule must forthwith be cancelled.

[F43 (6) In this rule a reference to a constable includes a person designated as a community support officer under section 38 of the 2002 Act.]

Textual Amendments

F43 Sch. 2 rule 34(6) inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 5(3)(b)

Keeping of order in station U.K.

35.—(1) It is the presiding officer's duty to keep order at his polling station.

(2) If a person misconducts himself in a polling station, or fails to obey the presiding officer's lawful orders, he may immediately, by the presiding officer's order, be removed from the polling station—

(a) by a constable in or near that station, or

(b) by any other person authorised in writing by the CRO to remove him,

and the person so removed must not, without the presiding officer's permission, again enter the polling station during the day.

(3) Any person so removed may, if charged with the commission in the polling station of an offence, be dealt with as a person taken into custody by a constable for an offence without a warrant.

(4) The powers conferred by this rule must not be exercised so as to prevent a voter who is otherwise entitled to vote at a polling station from having an opportunity of voting at that station.

Sealing of ballot boxes U.K.

36.  Immediately before the commencement of the poll, the presiding officer must—

(a) show each ballot box, empty, to such persons, if any, as are present in the polling station, so that they may see that the boxes are empty,

(b) lock up such of the boxes as have locks,

(c) place his seal—

(i) on each lock, and

(ii) on each ballot box which has no lock,

in such a manner as to prevent its being opened without breaking the seal,

(d) place each box in his view for the receipt of ballot papers, and

(e) keep each box locked and sealed or, as the case may be, sealed.

Questions to be put to voters U.K.

37.—(1) At the time of the application (but not afterwards), the questions specified in the second column of the following table—

(a) may be put by the presiding officer to a person who is mentioned in the first column, and

(b) must be put if the letter “R” appears after the question and the candidate or his election or polling agent requires the question to be put.

Q. No.	Person applying for ballot paper	Question
1	A person applying as an elector	(a)—Are you the person registered in the register of local government electors for this election as follows (read the whole entry from the register)? [R] (b)—Have you already voted, here or elsewhere in Greater London at this election for London members, otherwise than as proxy for some other person? [R]
2	A person applying as proxy	(a)—Are you the person whose name appears as A.B. in the list of proxies for this election as entitled to vote as proxy on behalf of C.D.? [R] (b)—Have you already voted here or elsewhere in Greater London at this election for London members, as proxy on behalf of C.D.? [R] (c)—Are you the spouse, civil partner, parent, grandparent, brother, sister, child or grandchild of C.D.? [R]
3	A person applying as proxy for an elector with an anonymous entry (instead of the questions at entry 2)	(a)—Are you the person entitled to vote as proxy on behalf of the elector whose number on the register of electors is (read out the number)? [R] (b)—Have you already voted here or elsewhere as proxy on behalf of the elector whose number on the register of electors is (read out the number)? [R] (c)—Are you the spouse, civil partner, parent, grandparent, brother, sister, child or grandchild of the person whose number on the register of electors is (read out the number)? [R]
4	A person applying as proxy if the question at entry 2(c) or 3(c) is not answered in the affirmative	Have you already voted here or elsewhere in Greater London at this election for London members, on behalf of two persons of whom you are not the spouse, civil partner, parent, grandparent, brother, sister, child or grandchild? [R]
5	A person applying as an elector in relation to whom there is an entry in the postal voters list	(a)— Did you apply to vote by post? (b)— Why have you not voted by post?
6	A person applying as proxy who is named in the proxy postal voters list	(a)— Did you apply to vote by post as proxy? (b)— Why have you not voted by post as proxy?

(2) In the case of an elector in respect of whom a notice has been issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act, the references in the questions at entries 1(a) and 3(a), (b) and (c) to reading from the register must be taken as references to reading from the notice issued under those subsections.

(3) A ballot paper must not be delivered to any person required to answer any of the above questions unless he has answered each question satisfactorily.

(4) Except as authorised by this rule, no inquiry may be permitted as to the right of any person to vote.

Challenge of voter U.K.

38.  A person must not be prevented from voting because—

(a) a candidate or his election or polling agent declares that he has reasonable cause to believe that the person has committed an offence of personation, or

(b) the person is arrested on the grounds that he is suspected of committing or of being about to commit such an offence.

Voting procedure U.K.

39.—(1) A ballot paper must be delivered to a voter who applies for one, and immediately before delivery—

(a) the number and (unless paragraph (2) applies) name of the elector as stated in the copy of the register of electors must be called out,

(b) the number of the elector must be marked on the list mentioned in rule 29(3)(e) beside the number of the ballot paper to be delivered to him,

(c) a mark must be placed in the register of electors against the number of the elector to note that a ballot paper has been applied for but without showing the particular ballot paper which may be delivered,

(d) in the case of a person applying for a ballot paper as proxy, a mark must also be placed against his name in the list of proxies.

(2) In the case of an elector who has an anonymous entry, he must show the presiding officer his official poll card and only his number may be called out in pursuance of paragraph (1)(a).

(3) In the case of an elector who is added to the register in pursuance of a notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act, paragraph (1) is modified as follows—

(a) in sub-paragraph (a), for “copy of the register of electors” substitute “copy of the notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act”,

(b) in sub-paragraph (c), for “in the register of electors” substitute “on the copy of the notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act”.

(4) The voter, on receiving the ballot paper, must forthwith proceed into one of the compartments in the polling station and there secretly mark his paper, and must then show to the presiding officer the back of the paper, so as to disclose the number and other unique identifying mark, and put the ballot paper into the ballot box in the presiding officer's presence, but so as to conceal his vote.

(5) The voter must vote without undue delay, and must leave the polling station as soon as he has put his ballot paper into the ballot box.

(6) A voter who has had a ballot paper delivered to him under paragraph (1), but has decided not to mark it, may return it to the presiding officer and where the voter does so, the presiding officer must—

(a) immediately cancel the ballot paper, and for the purposes of these rules treat it as a spoilt ballot paper,

(b) place a mark beside the number of that ballot paper on the corresponding number list to show that the ballot paper has been cancelled.

(7) Where any other ordinary Authority election in the Assembly constituency is contested, the same copy of—

(a) the list of proxies,

(b) the list mentioned in rule 29(3)(e),

(c) the register of electors,

(d) any notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act (marked in the case of an elector who is added to the register in pursuance of such a notice),

may be used for each Authority election and one mark may be placed in the list, register or notice (as the case may be) to denote that a ballot paper has been delivered in respect of each Authority election; except that, where a ballot paper has not been issued in respect of any Authority election, a different mark must be placed in the list, register or notice so as to identify the elections in respect of which a ballot paper was issued.

[F44 (8) A voter who at the close of the poll is in the polling station, or in a queue outside the polling station, for the purpose of voting must (despite the close of the poll) be entitled to apply for a ballot paper under paragraph (1); and these rules apply in relation to such a voter accordingly.]

Textual Amendments

F44 Sch. 2 rule 39(8) inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 9(2)(a)

Votes marked by presiding officer U.K.

40.—(1) The presiding officer, on the application of a voter—

(a) who is incapacitated by blindness or other disability from voting in the manner directed by these Rules, or

(b) who declares orally that he is unable to read,

must, in the presence of the polling agents, cause the voter's vote to be marked on a ballot paper in the manner directed by the voter, and the ballot paper to be placed in the ballot box.

(2) The name and number on the register of electors of every voter whose vote is marked in pursuance of this rule, and the reason why it is so marked, must be entered on a list (in these Rules called “the list of votes marked by the presiding officer”). In the case of a person voting as proxy for an elector, the number to be entered together with the voter's name must be the elector's number.

(3) In the case of a person in respect of whom a notice has been issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act M36 , paragraph (2) applies as if for “on the register of electors of every voter” there were substituted “relating to every voter in respect of whom a notice has been issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act”.

(4) The same list of votes marked by the presiding officer may be used for the election and each Authority election, and where it is so used, an entry in that list must be taken to mean that the ballot papers were so marked in respect of each Authority election, unless the list identifies the election for which the ballot paper was so marked.

Marginal Citations

M36 Section 13B of the 1983 Act was inserted by paragraph 3 of Schedule 2 to the Representation of the People Act 2000 (c.2) and amended by section 11(3) of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22). Subsections (3B) and (3D) of section 13B were inserted by section 11(4) of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22).

Voting by persons with disabilities U.K.

41.—(1) If a voter makes an application to the presiding officer to be allowed, on the ground of—

(a) blindness or other disability, or

(b) inability to read,

to vote with the assistance of another person by whom he is accompanied (in these Rules referred to as “the companion”), the presiding officer must require the voter to declare, orally or in writing, whether he is so incapacitated by his blindness or other disability, or by his inability to read, as to be unable to vote without assistance.

(2) If the presiding officer—

(a) is satisfied that the voter is so incapacitated, and

(b) is also satisfied by a written declaration made by the companion (in these Rules referred to as “the declaration made by the companion of a voter with disabilities”) that the companion—

(i) is a qualified person within the meaning of these Rules, and

(ii) has not previously assisted more than one voter with disabilities to vote at the election,

the presiding officer must grant the application, and then anything which is by these Rules required to be done to, or by that voter in connection with the giving of his vote may be done to, or with the assistance of, the companion.

(3) For the purpose of these Rules, a person is a voter with disabilities if he has made such a declaration as is mentioned in paragraph (1) above, and a person may be qualified to assist a voter with disabilities to vote if that person—

(a) is a person who is entitled to vote as an elector at the election, or

(b) is the father, mother, brother, sister, spouse, civil partner, son or daughter of the voter and has attained the age of 18 years.

(4) The name and number in the register of electors of every voter whose vote is given in accordance with this rule and the name and address of the companion must be entered on a list (in these Rules referred to as the “list of voters with disabilities assisted by companions”). In the case of a person voting as proxy for an elector, the number to be entered together with the voter's name must be the elector's number.

(5) In the case of a person in respect of whom a notice has been issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act, paragraph (4) applies as if for “in the register of electors of every voter” there were substituted “relating to every voter in respect of whom a notice has been issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act”.

(6) The declaration made by the companion—

(a) must be in the appropriate form,

(b) must be made before the presiding officer at the time when the voter applies to vote with the assistance of a companion, and

(c) must forthwith be given to the presiding officer who must attest and retain it.

(7) No fee or other payment may be charged in respect of the declaration.

(8) Where any other ordinary Authority election in the Assembly constituency is contested, the same list of voters with disabilities assisted by companions may be used for the election and each Authority election, and where it is so used, an entry in that list must be taken to mean that the votes were so given in respect of each Authority election, unless the list identifies the election for which the vote was so given.

Tendered ballot papers: circumstances where available U.K.

42.—(1) If a person, representing himself to be—

(a) a particular elector named in the register and not named in the absent voters list, or

(b) a particular person named in the list of proxies as proxy for an elector and not entitled to vote by post as proxy,

applies for a ballot paper after another person has voted in person either as the elector or his proxy, the applicant must, on satisfactorily answering the questions permitted by law to be asked at the poll, be entitled, subject to the following provisions of this rule and rule 43, to mark a ballot paper (in these Rules referred to as “a tendered ballot paper”) in the same manner as any other voter.

(2) Paragraph (4) applies if—

(a) a person applies for a ballot paper representing himself to be a particular elector named in the register,

(b) he is also named in the postal voters list, and

(c) he claims that he did not make an application to vote by post at the election.

(3) Paragraph (4) also applies if—

(a) a person applies for a ballot paper representing himself to be a particular person named as a proxy in the list of proxies,

(b) he is also named in the proxy postal voters list, and

(c) he claims that he did not make an application to vote by post as proxy.

(4) The person must, on satisfactorily answering the questions permitted by law to be asked at the poll, be entitled, subject to the following provisions of this rule and rule 43, to mark a ballot paper (in these Rules referred to as a “tendered ballot paper”) in the same manner as any other voter.

(5) Paragraph (6) applies if before the close of the poll but after the last time at which a person may apply for a replacement postal ballot paper, a person represents himself to be—

(a) a particular elector named in the register who is also named in the postal voters list, or

(b) a particular person named as a proxy in the list of proxies and who is also named in the proxy postal voters list,

and claims that he has lost or has not received his postal ballot paper.

(6) The person must, on satisfactorily answering the questions permitted by law to be asked at the poll, be entitled, subject to the provisions of this rule and rule 43, to mark a ballot paper (in these Rules referred to as a “tendered ballot paper”) in the same manner as any other voter.

Tendered ballot papers: general provisions U.K.

43.—(1) A tendered ballot paper must—

(a) be of a colour differing from the other ballot papers,

(b) instead of being put into the ballot box, be given to the presiding officer and endorsed by him with the name of the voter and his number on the register of electors, and set aside in a separate packet.

(2) The name of the voter and his number on the register of electors must be entered on a list (in these Rules referred to as the “tendered votes list”).

(3) In the case of a person voting as proxy for an elector, the number to be endorsed or entered together with the voter's name must be the number of that elector.

(4) In the case of an elector who has an anonymous entry, this rule and rule 42 apply subject to the following modifications—

(a) in paragraphs (1)(b) and (2) above, the references to the name of the voter must be ignored,

(b) otherwise, a reference to a person named on a register or list must be construed as a reference to a person whose number appears in the register or list (as the case may be).

(5) In the case of a person in respect of whom a notice has been issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act, this rule and rule 42 apply as if—

(a) in rule 42(1)(a), (2)(a) and (5)(a), for “named in the register” there were substituted “in respect of whom a notice under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act has been issued”,

(b) in paragraph (1)(b) of this rule for “his number in the register of electors” there were substituted “the number relating to him on a notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act”,

(c) in paragraph (2) of this rule, for “his number in the register of electors” there were substituted “the number relating to him on a notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act”.

(6) Where any other ordinary Authority election in the Assembly constituency is contested, the same tendered votes list may be used for the election and each Authority election, and where it is so used, an entry in that list must be taken to mean that tendered ballot papers were marked in respect of each Authority election, unless the list identifies the election for which a tendered ballot paper was delivered.

Spoilt and replacement ballot papers U.K.

44.—(1) A voter who has inadvertently dealt with his ballot paper in such manner that it cannot be conveniently used as a ballot paper may, on delivering it to the presiding officer and proving to his satisfaction the fact of the inadvertence, obtain a replacement for the ballot paper so delivered (in these Rules referred to as “ a spoilt ballot paper”), and the spoilt ballot paper must be immediately cancelled.

(2) If a voter decides, after he has returned his ballot paper and it has been cancelled in accordance with rule 39(6), but before the close of the poll, that he wishes to vote in the election, he may obtain a replacement for the returned ballot paper.

(3) Before a replacement ballot paper is obtained, the presiding officer must mark the corresponding number list that was marked under rule 39(1) (the corresponding number list)—

(a) in the case of a ballot paper being replaced under paragraph (1) or (2), beside the number of the replacement ballot paper obtained to show—

(i) the number of the elector, and

(ii) the number of the ballot paper which is being replaced; and

(b) in the case of a ballot paper being replaced under paragraph (1), beside the number of the spoilt ballot paper to show that the ballot paper was replaced.

(4) Where any other ordinary Authority election in the Assembly constituency is contested, the voter must only receive a replacement for a spoilt or returned ballot paper.

(5) If the same corresponding number list is used for more than one Authority election in accordance with rule 39(7)—

(a) the marks made under paragraph (3) must identify the election for which a ballot paper has been replaced, and

(b) any ballot paper which the voter has not applied for or obtained as a replacement, but which bears the same ballot paper number as a ballot paper delivered under rule 39(1), or obtained under paragraph (1) or (2) of this rule—

(i) must not be delivered to the voter,

(ii) must be cancelled, and

(iii) for the purposes of these rules, must be treated as a spoilt ballot paper.

Correction of errors on day of poll U.K.

45.—(1) The presiding officer must keep a list of persons to whom ballot papers are delivered in consequence of an alteration to the register made by virtue of section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act which takes effect on the day of the poll.

(2) Where any other ordinary Authority election in the Assembly constituency is contested, the same list referred to in paragraph (1) may be used for the election and each Authority election, and where it is so used, an entry in that list must be taken to mean that ballot papers were delivered in respect of each Authority election, unless the list identifies the election for which a tendered ballot paper was delivered.

Adjournment of poll in case of riot U.K.

46.—(1) Where the proceedings at any polling station are interrupted or obstructed by riot or open violence, the presiding officer must adjourn the proceedings till the following day and must forthwith give notice to the CRO.

(2) Where the poll is adjourned at any polling station—

(a) the hours of polling on the day to which it is adjourned must be the same as for the original day, and

(b) references in these Rules to the close of the poll must be construed accordingly.

(3) As soon as practicable after being informed of the adjournment of a poll, the CRO must inform the GLRO of that fact and of the cause of its adjournment.

Procedure on close of poll U.K.

47.—(1) As soon as practicable after the close of the poll, the presiding officer must, in the presence of the polling agents, make up into separate packets, sealed with his own seal and the seals of such polling agents as desire to affix their seals—

(a) each ballot box in use at the station, sealed so as to prevent the introduction of additional ballot papers and unopened, but with the key attached,

(b) the unused and spoilt ballot papers placed together,

(c) the tendered ballot papers,

(d) the marked copies of the register of electors (including any marked copy notices issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act) and of the list of proxies,

(e) the list prepared under rule 19, including the part completed in accordance with rule 39(1)(b) (together referred to in these Rules as “the completed corresponding number list”),

(f) the certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll,

(g) the tendered votes list, the list of voters with disabilities assisted by companions, the list of votes marked by the presiding officer, a statement of the number of voters whose votes are so marked by the presiding officer under the heads “disability” and “unable to read”, the list maintained under rule 45, and the declarations made by the companions of voters with disabilities,

and must deliver the packets or cause them to be delivered to the CRO to be taken charge of by him; but if the packets are not delivered by the presiding officer personally to the CRO, the arrangements for their delivery must be approved by the CRO.

(2) The contents of the packets referred to in paragraph (1)(b), (c) and (f) must not be combined with the contents of the packets made under the corresponding rule that applies at any other Authority election.

(3) The marked copies of the register of electors and of the list of proxies must be in one packet but must not be in the same packet as the completed corresponding number list or the certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll.

(4) The packets must be accompanied by a statement (“ballot paper account”) showing the number of ballot papers entrusted to the presiding officer, and accounting for them under the heads—

(a) ballot papers issued and not otherwise accounted for,

(b) unused ballot papers,

(c) spoilt ballot papers, and

(d) tendered ballot papers.

(5) The statement referred to in paragraph (4) may be combined with the statements produced in relation to other Authority elections and the combined statement must be arranged in such manner as the GLRO may direct.

Attendance at verification and the local count U.K.

48.—(1) As soon as practicable after the close of the poll, the CRO must make arrangements for carrying out, in the presence of the counting agents, the verification and the counting of the votes at the election and must give to the counting agents notice in writing of the time and place at which he will begin to verify and count the votes.

(2) No person other than—

(a) the CRO and his clerks and technical assistants,

(b) the GLRO,

(c) the candidates and one other person chosen by each of them,

(d) the election agents,

(e) the counting agents,

(f) persons who are entitled to attend by virtue of any of sections 6A to 6D of the 2000 Act,

may be present at the verification and counting of the votes, unless permitted by the CRO to attend.

(3) A person not entitled to attend the local verification and count must not be permitted to do so by the CRO unless he—

(a) is satisfied that the efficient conduct of those proceedings will not be impeded, and

(b) has either consulted the election agents or thought it impracticable to do so.

(4) The CRO must give the counting agents all such reasonable facilities for overseeing the proceedings, and all such information with respect to them, as he can give them consistently with the orderly conduct of the proceedings and the discharge of his duties in connection with them.

Use of the electronic counting system U.K.

49.—(1) The GLRO may provide the CRO with an electronic counting system consisting of computer hardware, software and other equipment or services, for the purpose of counting the number of ballot papers, to verify the ballot paper accounts and to count the votes cast on them.

(2) Any verification of ballot paper accounts, count or re-count at the election conducted using the electronic counting system must be conducted in accordance with rule 50.

(3) If the GLRO has provided the CRO with an electronic counting system for use at the election, the CRO must obtain the prior written consent of the GLRO before he may conduct the verification of ballot paper accounts or count the votes manually.

(4) If the verification of ballot paper accounts, count or re-count has commenced using the electronic counting system but has not been completed, the CRO may, if he considers it appropriate, discontinue the count and instead count the votes manually.

(5) Where the count or a re-count has been conducted using the electronic counting system, the CRO may, if he considers it appropriate, conduct any re-count without using that system.

(6) Where verification or any count or re-count is conducted using the electronic counting system, any of the steps referred to rule 50, in so far as practicable, may be undertaken—

(a) concurrently with any other of those steps, or

(b) in a different order.

Verification and the local count U.K.

50.—(1) The CRO must—

(a) open the ballot boxes from each polling station together, in the presence of the counting agents appointed for the purposes of the election and any other Authority election,

(b) cause the electronic counting system to count such of the postal ballot papers as have been duly returned in accordance with paragraphs (2) and (3) and record separately the number counted,

(c) not mix the contents of any ballot box with the contents of any other ballot box during the conduct of any count or re-count.

(2) A postal ballot paper must not be taken to be duly returned unless—

(a) it is returned in the manner set out in paragraph (3) and reaches the CRO or any polling station in the Assembly constituency that includes the electoral area for which the elector is registered as a local government elector, before the close of the poll,

(b) the postal voting statement, duly signed, is also returned in the manner set out in paragraph (3) and reaches him or such polling station before that time,

(c) the postal voting statement also states the date of birth of the elector or proxy (as the case may be), and

(d) in a case where the steps for verifying the date of birth and signature of an elector or proxy have been prescribed by regulations made under the 1983 Act M37 , the CRO (having taken such steps) verifies the date of birth and signature of the elector or proxy (as the case may be).

(3) The manner in which any postal paper or postal voting statement may be returned—

(a) to the CRO, is by hand or by post,

(b) to a polling station in the Assembly constituency, is by hand.

[F45 (3A) A postal ballot paper or postal voting statement that reaches the CRO or a polling station mentioned in sub-paragraph (a) of paragraph (2) at or after the close of the poll is treated for the purposes of paragraph (2) as reaching that officer or polling station before the close of the poll if it is delivered by a person who, at the close of the poll, is in the polling station, or in a queue outside the polling station, for the purpose of returning it.]

(4) After completing the proceedings under paragraph (1), the CRO must cause the electronic counting system to process the ballot papers so as to count—

(a) the number of ballot papers, and

(b) votes given on the ballot papers.

(5) The CRO must not cause the electronic counting system to count any tendered ballot paper.

(6) The CRO must verify each ballot paper account by comparing it with the number of ballot papers processed by the electronic counting system, and the unused and spoilt ballot papers in his possession and the tendered votes list (opening and resealing the packets containing the unused and spoilt ballot papers and the tendered votes list) and must draw up a statement as to the result of the verification, which any election agent may copy.

(7) The CRO, while verifying the ballot paper accounts and counting the votes, must take all proper precautions for preventing any person from seeing the numbers printed on the back of the papers.

(8) The CRO must so far as practicable proceed continuously with counting the votes, allowing only time for refreshment, except that the hours between 5 in the afternoon and 10 on the following morning may be excluded with the prior consent of the GLRO.

(9) During the time so excluded the CRO must—

(a) place the ballot papers and other documents relating to the election under his own seal and the seals of such of the counting agents as desire to affix their seals, and

(b) otherwise take proper precautions for the security of the papers and documents.

Textual Amendments

F45 Sch. 2 rule 50(3A) inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 9(2)(b)

Marginal Citations

M37 See regulation 85 and 85A of the Representation of the People (England and Wales) Regulations 2001 (S.I. 2001/341), which were inserted by S.I. 2006/2910.

Rejected ballot papers U.K.

51.—(1) Any ballot paper—

(a) which does not bear the official mark,

(b) on which votes are given for more than one party or individual candidate,

(c) on which anything is written or marked by which the voter can be identified except the printed number and other unique identifying mark on the back,

(d) which is unmarked, or

(e) which is void for uncertainty,

is, subject to paragraph (2), void and must not be counted.

(2) A ballot paper on which the vote is marked—

(a) elsewhere than in the proper place, or

(b) otherwise than by means of a cross, or

(c) by more than one mark,

must not for such reason be void if an intention that the vote be given for one only of the party or individual candidates clearly appears, and the way the paper is marked does not itself identify the voter and it is not shown that he can be identified by it.

(3) Where the electronic counting system identifies a ballot paper that has been marked, but which appears for whatever reason to be void, it must be examined by a clerk appointed by the CRO in the manner referred to in paragraph (6).

(4) If the clerk, having examined the ballot, considers that the vote is void then the CRO must examine it in the manner referred to in paragraph (6).

(5) After the CRO examines the ballot paper, he must give his decision as to the validity of the vote.

(6) An examination under paragraph (3) or (4) is to be made by the clerk or CRO examining an image of the ballot paper which is shown on a screen so as to be visible to those attending the count.

(7) The CRO may examine any ballot paper that he is not required to examine in accordance with paragraph (4)—

(a) either in the manner referred to in paragraph (6), or

(b) by examining a paper copy,

and where the CRO does so, he must give a decision on that paper in accordance with paragraph (5).

(8) No person attending the count is to be entitled to require the clerk or CRO to examine a ballot paper or to provide a paper copy for inspection.

(9) A record of the CRO's decision must be retained in the electronic counting system together with, in the case of a decision that the ballot paper is void, his reasons by reference to paragraph (1).

(10) Where a counting agent objects to the CRO's decision the CRO must record on the electronic counting system that the decision was objected to.

(11) The CRO must draw up a statement showing the number of ballot papers rejected under the several heads of—

(a) want of an official mark,

(b) voting for more than one party or individual candidate,

(c) writing or mark by which the voter could be identified,

(d) unmarked ballot paper, or

(e) void for uncertainty.

(12) As soon as practicable after the completion of the statement under paragraph (11) the CRO must inform—

(a) such candidates, election agents and counting agents as are present at the count, and

(b) the GLRO,

of its contents.

Decision on ballot papers U.K.

52.  The decision of the CRO on any question arising in respect of a ballot paper is final, but may be subject to review on an election petition.

Re-count U.K.

53.—(1) A candidate or his election agent (including, in the case of a list candidate, the election agent for that list) or a counting agent authorised under rule 31(3) may, if present when the counting or any re-count of the votes is completed, require the CRO to have the votes re-counted or again re-counted but the CRO may refuse to do so if in his opinion the request is unreasonable.

(2) No step may be taken on the completion of the counting or any re-count of votes until the candidates and election agents and counting agents authorised under rule 31(1) present at its completion have been given a reasonable opportunity to exercise the right conferred by this rule.

(3) The CRO may determine the extent to which any re-count involves the electronic counting of votes.

(4) When the returning officer uses the electronic counting system for the re-counting of votes, he must not re-consider any decision made on any ballot paper under rule 51(5).

Procedure at conclusion of local count U.K.

54.—(1) As soon as practicable after the conclusion of the local count (including any re-count), the CRO must draw up a statement showing—

(a) the total number of votes cast,

(b) the total number of votes rejected under rule 51,

(c) the number of votes given for each registered party, and

(d) the number of votes cast for each individual candidate.

(2) As soon as practicable after the statement is drawn up under paragraph (1), the CRO must inform the GLRO of its contents, and if it is practicable to do so, must also provide that information so as to show the total number of votes under each of those heads in each ward.

(3) As soon as practicable after the GLRO has authorised him to do so, the CRO must—

(a) inform such of the candidates and their election agents as are then present of the content of the statements prepared in accordance with rule 51 and paragraph (1) of this rule, and

(b) give public notice of the contents of those statements.

Attendance at allocation of seats U.K.

55.—(1) The GLRO must make arrangements for making the allocation of seats in the presence of the election agents of the individual candidates (including, in the case of a list candidate, the election agent for that list), and he must give to those agents notice in writing of the time and place at which he will begin the allocation.

(2) No person other than—

(a) the GLRO and his clerks,

(b) the CROs and a clerk or technical assistant chosen by each of them,

(c) the individual candidates and one person chosen by each of them,

(d) candidates included on a party list and one person chosen by each of them,

(e) the election agents,

(f) the nominating officers of those registered parties standing nominated at the election,

(g) persons who are entitled to attend by virtue of any of sections 6A to 6D of the 2000 Act,

(h) persons permitted to be present at the central calculation at the election of the Mayor of London,

may be present at an allocation, unless permitted by the GLRO to attend.

(3) A person not entitled to attend an allocation must not be permitted to do so by the GLRO unless the GLRO—

(a) is satisfied that the efficiency of the allocation will not be impeded, and

(b) has either consulted the election agents or thought it impracticable to do so.

The calculation U.K.

56.—(1) As soon as the GLRO has received from every CRO the information required by rule 54 he must calculate the London figure for each registered party and individual candidate.

(2) As soon as the GLRO has ascertained the result of the calculation, he must inform such of the election agents for the candidates as are then present of the relevant figures and must give them a reasonable opportunity to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the calculation.

(3) Where information of the description mentioned in paragraph (4)(e) is given in accordance with paragraph (2), the GLRO must provide the persons to whom it was given with a statement containing—

(a) the names of the persons concerned, and

(b) with respect to each such person, the name of the party from whose list his name has been omitted or treated as omitted, and the reason therefor.

(4) In this rule, “the relevant figures” means—

(a) the number of London votes given in the Assembly constituencies for each registered party and for each individual candidate at that election,

(b) in respect of each party, the number of successful candidates to be constituency members, who were the subject of that party's authorisation under rule 6(5) or 6(7) of the [F46 Constituency Members Election Rules],

(c) the calculation of the London figure,

(d) any recalculation required by paragraph 8(3), or carried out in the circumstances mentioned in paragraph 8(8), of Schedule 2 to the 1999 Act, and

(e) the number of persons whose names have been omitted from, or (pursuant to paragraph 8(10) of Schedule 2 to the 1999 Act) who are to be treated as ceasing to be on, a party list.

(5) Paragraph (6) applies where the GLRO is notified under rule 54(5) of the Constituency Members Election Rules that a candidate who is returned as a constituency member is the candidate with a description authorised under rule 6(7)(a) of those rules (a using a description registered by more than one party).

(6) Where this paragraph applies, the GLRO must, in calculating the London figure of each registered party whose nominating officer issued a certificate to which rule 6(7)(a) of the Constituency Members Election Rules refers, include that candidate as a candidate of that party; and in doing so must disregard the fact that for the purposes of calculating the London figure of another registered party, the candidate is also included as the candidate of that other registered party.

Textual Amendments

F46 Words in Sch. 2 rule 56(4)(b) substituted (1.3.2012) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2012 (S.I. 2012/198), rules 1(1), 4(2)

PART 5 U.K. Final Proceedings In Contested And Uncontested Elections

Declaration of result U.K.

57.—(1) The GLRO must declare the allocation of the seats for London members and, where seats are allocated to a registered party, the names of the persons on the party list who, in accordance with paragraph 8(5) of Schedule 2 to the 1999 Act, are to fill those seats.

(2) The GLRO must give public notice of—

(a) the registered parties to which seats for London members have been allocated and the names of the list candidates by whom those seats are to be filled,

(b) the names of the successful individual candidates,

(c) the total number of London votes given for each registered party and each individual candidate,

(d) the total number of candidates of registered parties returned as constituency members,

(e) the number of rejected ballot papers under each head shown in the statement of rejected ballot papers,

(f) the name of every person included on a party list who has been omitted from, or (pursuant to paragraph 8(10) of Schedule 2 to the 1999 Act) is to be treated as ceasing to be on, that list, together with the reason for the omission or cessation, as the case may be.

(3) Subject to paragraph (4), after the GLRO complies with paragraphs (1) and (2), he may give public notice of the information referred to paragraph (2)(c) and (e) so as to set out the number of votes falling under each of those heads, in respect of each ward.

(4) Where the sum of F47 ...votes given for all registered parties and individual candidates in any ward does not exceed 500, the GLRO must not give notice under paragraph (3) in respect of that ward alone, but must amalgamate the figures for that ward with those for any other ward in which more than 500 votes have been given, in the same Assembly constituency.

Textual Amendments

F47 Words in Sch. 2 rule 57(4) omitted (1.3.2012) by virtue of The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2012 (S.I. 2012/198), rules 1(1), 4(1)

Return or forfeiture of candidate's deposit U.K.

58.—(1) Unless forfeited in accordance with paragraph (5), the deposit made under rule 10 must be returned to the person making it or his personal representative.

(2) Subject to paragraph (4), the deposit must be returned not later than the next day after that on which the result of the election is declared.

(3) For the purposes of paragraph (2)—

(a) a day must be disregarded if, in accordance with rule 4, it would be disregarded in computing any period of time for the purposes of the timetable for the election, and

(b) the deposit will be treated as being returned on a day if a cheque for the amount of the deposit is posted on that day.

(4) If the individual candidate or registered party is not shown as standing nominated in the statement of persons nominated, or if proof has been given to the GLRO before the allocation of seats of the death of an individual candidate, then the deposit must be returned as soon as practicable after the publication of the statement or after the individual candidate's death, as the case may be.

(5) Where a poll is taken, if, after the declaration under rule 57, a candidate or registered party is found not to have polled more than one-fortieth of the total number of votes polled by all the candidates and registered parties, the deposit must be forfeited to the Greater London Authority.

PART 6 U.K. Disposal Of Documents

Sealing up of ballot papers U.K.

59.—(1) On the completion of the counting at a contested election the CRO must seal up in separate packets the counted and rejected ballot papers.

(2) Where some or all of the votes have been counted using the electronic counting system, the CRO must also seal up in a separate packet a complete electronic record (“the electronic record”) of the information stored in the electronic counting system, held in such device as may be suitable for the purpose of its storage.

(3) After making the electronic record under paragraph (2), the CRO must arrange for the original records in the electronic counting system to be removed from it and destroyed in a manner that ensures that the secrecy of those records is preserved.

(4) The CRO must not open the sealed packets of—

(a) tendered ballot papers,

(b) certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll,

(c) the completed corresponding number lists, or

(d) marked copies of the register of electors (including any marked copy notices issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act) and lists of proxies.

Delivery and retention of documents U.K.

60.—(1) The CRO must then forward the following documents to the relevant registration officer—

(a) the packets of ballot papers in his possession,

(b) the packet containing the electronic record (if any),

(c) the ballot paper accounts and the statements of rejected ballot papers and of the result of the verification of the ballot paper accounts,

(d) the tendered votes lists, the lists of voters with disabilities assisted by companions, the lists of votes marked by the presiding officer and the related statements, the lists maintained under rule 45 and the declarations made by the companions of voters with disabilities,

(e) the packets of the completed corresponding number lists,

(f) the packets of certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll, and

(g) the packets containing marked copies of registers (including any marked copy notices issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act) and of the postal voters list, of the lists of proxies and of the proxy postal voters list,

endorsing on each packet a description of its contents, the date of the election to which they relate and the name of the Assembly constituency for which the election was held.

Orders for production of documents U.K.

61.—(1) An order—

(a) for the inspection or production of any rejected ballot papers in the custody of the relevant registration officer, or

(b) for the opening of a packet containing the electronic record or a sealed packet of completed corresponding number lists or certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll or the inspection of any counted ballot papers in the custody of the relevant registration officer,

may be made by a county court, if the court is satisfied by evidence on oath that the order is required for the purpose of instituting or maintaining a prosecution for an offence in relation to ballot papers, or for the purpose of an election petition.

(2) An election court may make an order for the opening of a packet containing the electronic record or a sealed packet of completed corresponding number lists or certificates or for the inspection of any counted ballot papers in the custody of the relevant registration officer.

(3) An order under this rule may be made subject to such conditions as to—

(a) persons,

(b) time,

(c) place and mode of inspection,

(d) production or opening,

as the court making the order thinks expedient; but in making and carrying into effect an order for the opening of a packet containing the electronic record or a packet of completed corresponding number lists or certificates or for the inspection of counted ballot papers, care must be taken that the way in which the vote of any particular elector has been given must not be disclosed until it has been proved—

(i) that his vote was given, and

(ii) that the vote has been declared by a competent court to be invalid.

(4) An appeal lies to the High Court from any order of a county court under this rule.

(5) Any power given under this rule to a county court may be exercised by any judge of the court otherwise than in open court.

(6) Where an order is made for the production by the relevant registration officer of any document or electronic record in his custody relating to any specified election—

(a) the production by him or his agent of the document or electronic record ordered in such manner as may be directed by that order will be conclusive evidence that the document or electronic record relates to the specified election, and

(b) any endorsement on any packet of ballot papers so produced will be prima facie evidence that the ballot papers are what they are stated to be by the endorsement.

(7) The production from proper custody of—

(a) a ballot paper purporting to have been used at any election, or

(b) a copy of the electronic record which purports to record that a particular ballot paper was used at any election, and

a completed corresponding number list with a number written beside the number of the ballot paper, will be prima facie evidence that the elector whose vote was given by that ballot paper was the person who, at the time of the election, had affixed to his entry in the register of electors or on the notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act, the same number as was written on the completed corresponding number list.

(8) Unless authorised by this rule, no person may be allowed to inspect any rejected or counted ballot papers in the custody of the relevant registration officer or open any sealed packets of completed corresponding number lists, certificates as to employment on the day of the poll or containing the electronic record.

Retention and destruction of documents and records U.K.

62.  The relevant registration officer must retain or cause to be retained for one year all documents and, where applicable, the electronic record relating to an election forwarded to him in pursuance of these Rules by a CRO, and then, unless otherwise directed by an order of a county court, a Crown Court, a magistrate's court or an election court, must cause them to be destroyed.

PART 7 U.K. List Candidates And The Filling Of Vacancies

Interpretation of Part 7 U.K.

63.  In this Part—

“dual candidate” means a person—

(a)

whose name, subject to rule 65, falls to be notified as mentioned in subsection (6) of section 11 (filling a vacancy among the London members) of the 1999 Act, and

(b)

who is a candidate (otherwise than at an ordinary election) for election—

(i)

as the Mayor of London, or

(ii)

as a constituency member,

“nominating officer”, in relation to a registered party and a vacancy in the office of a London member, means the person who holds that office in the party at the time at which the vacancy arises, and

“paragraph (1) notice” has the meaning given by rule 65(1).

Removal from a party list on election as Mayor or as a constituency member U.K.

64.—(1) Where a person whose name is for the time being included in a party list is elected (otherwise than at an ordinary election)—

(a) as the Mayor of London, or

(b) as a constituency member,

his name must be removed from that list.

(2) For the purposes of this Part, the name of a person to whom paragraph (1) applies must be treated as ceasing to be included in the list from the date on which he is returned as the Mayor or a constituency member, as the case may be (even if his return is void).

(3) Where proof is given to the GLRO's satisfaction that a person whose name is for the time being included in a party list has died, then the GLRO must remove that person's name from that list.

Notification of vacancy U.K.

65.—(1) As soon as the office of a London member who was returned from a registered party's list becomes vacant, the GLRO must simultaneously give or send to—

(a) the party's nominating officer, and

(b) the person whose name would, in accordance with subsection (6) of section 11 (filling a vacancy among the London members) of the 1999 Act (and on the assumption that he satisfies the conditions in subsection (4) of that section), be so notified,

written notice (“paragraph (1) notice”) of the matters specified in paragraph (2).

(2) The matters specified in this paragraph are–

(a) the vacancy,

(b) that the nominating officer may, by notice in writing delivered to the GLRO not later than one month after the date of the paragraph (1) notice, give the notice referred to in subsection (5)(b) of section 11 of the 1999 Act, and

(c) that the person must, by notice in writing delivered to the GLRO not later than one month after the date of the paragraph (1) notice, indicate whichever of the following apply to him—

(i) that he is willing to serve as a London member (“notice of willingness”),

(ii) that he is not willing to serve as a London member, and

(iii) that he is a dual candidate.

(3) The GLRO must not notify the Chair of the London Assembly as mentioned in section 11(3) of the 1999 Act until—

(a) the period mentioned in paragraph (2)(b) has elapsed, and

(b) he has received a notice of willingness, and

(c) if the person by whom notice of willingness has been given is a dual candidate, the result of the election for which he is a Mayoral or constituency member candidate has been declared.

Unwilling candidate or objection by registered party U.K.

66.  Where the GLRO receives a notice under rule 65(2)(c)(ii) or section 11(5)(b) of the 1999 Act he must again send a paragraph (1) notice, but with the substitution, for the name of the person to whom the first such notice was sent, of the name of the person who, on the same assumption, would be the next person whose name would be notified in accordance with section 11(6) of that Act; and so on until, in respect of such a person—

(a) no notice is given under section 11(5)(b) of that Act, and

(b) a notice of willingness has been received.

Acceptance of office and further notification U.K.

67.—(1) As soon as practicable after the GLRO has identified the person who is to fill the vacancy, he must invite him to attend at his office to sign the declaration of acceptance of office.

(2) In a case to which section 11(3) of the 1999 Act applies, as soon as practicable after the declaration of acceptance of office has been signed, the GLRO must notify the Chair of the London Assembly as mentioned in that subsection.

PART 8 U.K. Returns And Declarations As to Election Expenses

Declarations as to election expenses U.K.

68.—(1) Subject to paragraph (2), the form of the declaration required by section 82(1) of the 1983 Act (agent's declaration as to election expenses), in the circumstances mentioned in subsection (2A)(a) of that section, is that set out in part 1 of Form 20 of the Forms Schedule.

(2) In a case to which section 82(5A) of the 1983 Act applies, the declaration referred to in paragraph (1) must be modified as specified in part 2 of Form 20.

(3) Subject to paragraph (4), the form of the declaration required by section 82(2) of the 1983 Act (candidate's declaration as to election expenses), in the circumstances mentioned in subsection (2A)(b) of that section must be that set out in part 1 of the Form 21 of the Forms Schedule.

(4) In a case to which section 82(5A) of the 1983 Act applies, the declaration referred to in paragraph (3) must be modified as specified in part 2 of Form 21.

Rule 3(4)

SCHEDULE 3 U.K. THE MAYORAL ELECTION RULES

PART 1 U.K. General Provisions

Citation U.K.

1.  This Schedule may be cited as the Mayoral Election Rules.

Interpretation U.K.

2.—(1) In the rules in this Schedule, unless the context indicates otherwise—

“candidate” means a candidate to be the Mayor;

“election” means an election for the return of the Mayor;

(2) Reference to a rule by number alone is a reference to the rule so numbered in this Schedule.

PART 2 U.K. Provisions As To Time

Timetable U.K.

3.  The proceedings at the election must be conducted in accordance with the following timetable:

Timetable

Proceedings	Time
Publication of notice of election	Not later than the thirtieth day before the day of election.
Delivery of nomination papers	Not later than [F48 4pm] on the twenty-fourth day before the day of election.
[F49 Delivery of notices of withdrawals of candidature	Not later than 4 in the afternoon on the twenty-fourth day before the day of election]
Publication of statement as to persons nominated	Not later than [F50 4 in the afternoon] on the twenty-second day before the day of election.
F51 . . .	F51 . . .
Notice of poll	Not later than the sixth day before the day of election.
Polling	Between the hours of 7 in the morning and 10 at night on the day of election.

Textual Amendments

F48 Word in Sch. 3 rule 3 substituted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(7)(a)

F49 Words in Sch. 3 rule 3 inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(7)(b)

F50 Words in Sch. 3 rule 3 substituted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(7)(c)

F51 Words in Sch. 3 rule 3 omitted (8.2.2016) by virtue of The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(7)(d)

Computation of time U.K.

4.—(1) In computing any period of time for the purposes of the Timetable—

(a) a Saturday or Sunday,

(b) Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Good Friday or a bank holiday, or

(c) a day appointed for public thanksgiving or mourning,

must be disregarded, and any such day must not be treated as a day for the purpose of any proceedings up to the completion of the poll nor must the CRO be obliged to proceed with the counting of the votes on such a day.

(2) In this rule, “bank holiday” means a day which is a bank holiday under the Banking and Financial Dealings Act 1971 M38 in England and Wales.

Marginal Citations

M38 1971 c. 80

PART 3 U.K. Stages Common To Contested And Uncontested Elections

Notice of election U.K.

5.—(1) The GLRO must publish in each Assembly constituency notice of the election stating—

(a) the place and times at which nomination papers are to be delivered, and

(b) the date of the poll in the event of a contest,

and the notice must state that forms of nomination papers may be obtained at that place and those times.

(2) The notice of election must state the arrangements (if any) which apply for the payment of the deposit required by rule 9 by means of the electronic transfer of funds.

(3) The notice of election must state the date by which—

(a) applications to vote by post or proxy, and

(b) other applications and notices about postal or proxy voting,

must reach the registration officer for local government electors in order that they may be effective for the election.

Nomination of candidates U.K.

6.—(1) Each candidate must be nominated by a separate nomination paper which must be—

(a) in the appropriate form, and

(b) delivered to the place fixed for the purpose by the GLRO, which must be at one of the offices of the Greater London Authority, before the last time for the delivery of nomination papers.

(2) A nomination paper must state the candidate's—

(a) full names,

(b) home address, in full, and

(c) if desired, description,

and the surname must be placed first in the list of names.

(3) If a candidate commonly uses—

(a) a surname which is different from any other surname he has, or

(b) a forename which is different from any other forename he has,

the nomination paper may state the commonly used surname or forename, or both surname and forename, in addition to the other name.

(4) The description (if any) can only be—

(a) one authorised as mentioned in paragraph (5) or (7), or

(b) the word “Independent”.

(5) A nomination paper may not include a description of a candidate that is likely to lead electors to associate the candidate with a registered party unless—

(a) the party is a qualifying party in relation to Greater London, and

(b) the description is authorised by a certificate—

(i) issued by or on behalf of the registered nominating officer of the party, and

(ii) received by the GLRO before the last time for the delivery of nomination papers set out in the timetable in rule 3.

(6) In paragraph (5) an authorised description may be either—

(a) the name of the party registered under section 28 of the 2000 Act M39 , or

(b) a description of the party registered under section 28A M40 of that Act.

(7) A nomination paper may not include a description of a candidate which is likely to lead electors to associate the candidate with two or more registered political parties unless the parties are each qualifying parties in relation to Greater London and the description is a registered description authorised by a certificate—

(a) issued by or on behalf of the registered nominating officer of each of the parties, and

(b) received by the GLRO before the last time for the delivery of nomination papers set out in the timetable in rule 3.

(8) For the purposes of paragraph (7), a description is a registered description if it is a description registered for use by the parties under section 28B of the 2000 Act M41 .

(9) A person will be guilty of a corrupt practice if he fraudulently purports to be authorised to issue a certificate under paragraph (5) or (7) on behalf of a registered party's nominating officer.

(10) For the purposes of the application of these rules in relation to an election—

(a) “registered party” means a party which was registered under Part 2 of the 2000 Act on the day (“the relevant day”) which is two days before the last day for the delivery of nomination papers at that election,

(b) a registered party is a qualifying party in relation to Greater London if on the relevant day the party was registered in respect of England in the Great Britain register maintained under that Part of that Act.

(11) For the purposes of paragraph (10)(a), any day falling within rule 4(1) must be disregarded.

Marginal Citations

M39 Section 28 of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 (c.41) was amended by S.I. 2004/366 and by section 48 of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22).

M40 Section 28A of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 (c.41) was inserted by section 49(1) of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22).

M41 Section 28B of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 (c.41) was inserted by section 49(1) of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22).

Subscription of nomination papers U.K.

7.—(1) The nomination paper of a candidate must be subscribed by at least 330 persons each of whom is entitled to vote at the election; and in relation to each London borough and the City, at least ten of the subscribers must be electors who are ordinarily resident in the borough or, as the case may be, the City.

(2) Where a nomination paper has the signatures of more than the required number of persons as assenting to the nomination of a candidate, the signatures (up to the required number) appearing first on the paper must be taken into account to the exclusion of any others.

(3) The nomination paper must give the electoral number of each person subscribing it.

[F52 (3A) A person must not subscribe more than one nomination paper at the same election.

(3B) Paragraph (3A) does not prevent a person subscribing a further nomination paper where the previously nominated candidate has either died or withdrawn.]

(4) The GLRO—

(a) must supply any elector with as many forms of nomination paper and forms of consent to nomination as may be required at the place and during the time for delivery of nomination papers, and

(b) must, at any elector's request, prepare a nomination paper for signature,

but it is not necessary for a nomination or consent to nomination to be on a form supplied by the GLRO.

(5) In this rule—

“elector” means a person named as a local government elector in the register being used at the election in that Assembly constituency, and includes a person shown in the register as below voting age if it appears from the register that he will be of voting age on the day fixed for the poll, but does not include a person who has an anonymous entry in the register.

“electoral number” means—

(a)

a person's number in that register, or

(b)

pending publication of the register, his number (if any) in the electors list for that register.

Textual Amendments

F52 Sch. 3 rule 7(3A)(3B) inserted (1.3.2012) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2012 (S.I. 2012/198), rules 1(1), 5(2)

Consent to nomination U.K.

8.—(1) A person will not be validly nominated unless his consent to nomination—

(a) is given in writing in the appropriate form, or a form to like effect, on or within one month before the last day for the delivery of nomination papers;

(b) is attested by one witness whose name and address must be given; and

(c) is delivered at the place and within the time for delivery of nomination papers.

(2) A candidate's consent given under this rule must—

(a) state the day, month and year of his birth; and

(b) contain a statement that to the best of the candidate's knowledge and belief he is not disqualified from being elected by reason of—

(i) any disqualification set out in section 21 (disqualification from being the Mayor or an Assembly member) of the 1999 Act, F53 ...

[F54 (ii) a decision made under section 78A of the Local Government Act 2000 (decisions of First-tier tribunal), or

(iii) an order made under section 34(4) of the Localism Act 2011 (offences).]

Textual Amendments

F53 Word in Sch. 3 rule 8(2)(b) omitted (8.2.2016) by virtue of The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 7(3)(a)

F54 Sch. 3 rule 8(2)(b)(ii)(iii) substituted for Sch. 3 rule 8(2)(b)(ii) (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 7(3)(b)

Deposits U.K.

9.—(1) A person will not be validly nominated as a candidate unless the sum of £10,000 is deposited by him, or on his behalf, with the GLRO at the place and during the time for delivery of nomination papers.

(2) The deposit may be made either—

(a) by the deposit of any legal tender, or

(b) by means of a banker's draft, or

(c) with the GLRO's consent, in any other manner including by means of a debit or credit card or the electronic transfer of funds,

but the GLRO may refuse to accept a deposit sought to be made by means of a banker's draft if he does not know that the drawer carries on business as a banker in the United Kingdom.

(3) Where the deposit is made on behalf of the candidate, the person making the deposit must at the time he makes it give his name and address to the GLRO, unless they have previously been given to him under section 67 (appointment of election agent) of the 1983 Act.

Decisions as to validity of nomination papers U.K.

10.—(1) Where a nomination paper and the candidate's consent to it are delivered, and the deposit is made, in accordance with these Rules, the candidate must be deemed to stand nominated unless and until—

(a) the GLRO decides that the nomination paper is invalid, or

(b) proof is given to the GLRO's satisfaction of the candidate's death, or

(c) the candidate withdraws.

(2) The GLRO is entitled to hold the nomination paper of a person invalid only on one of the following grounds—

(a) that the particulars of the candidate or of the persons subscribing the paper are not as required by law,

(b) that the paper is not subscribed as so required;,

(c) that the paper breaks rule 6(5) or (7).

[F55 (2A) If, contrary to rule 7(3A), a person subscribes more than one nomination paper the GLRO, in determining whether a paper is subscribed as so required under paragraph (2)(b)—

(a) must only take the person’s signature into account in respect of the first nomination paper delivered under rule 6(1)(b) on which the person’s signature appears,

(b) must, where the person’s signature appears on a nomination paper delivered subsequently, find that the paper is not subscribed as so required if the signature appears within the first 330 signatures on the paper, regardless of whether the paper contains more than 330 signatures.]

(3) Subject to paragraph (4), the GLRO must, as soon as practicable after each nomination paper has been delivered, examine it and decide whether the candidate has been validly nominated.

(4) If in the GLRO's opinion a nomination paper breaks rule 6(5) or (7), he must give a decision to that effect—

(a) as soon as practicable after the delivery of the nomination paper, and

(b) in any event, before the end of the period of 24 hours starting with the end of the period for the delivery of nomination papers set out in the timetable in rule 3.

(5) Where the GLRO decides that a nomination paper is invalid, he must endorse and sign on the paper the fact and the reasons for his decision.

(6) The GLRO must, as soon as practicable after making such a decision in accordance with paragraph (3) or (4) that a [F56 nomination paper] is valid or invalid, send notice of it to the candidate at his home address as given in his nomination paper.

(7) The GLRO's decision that a nomination paper is valid is final and may not be questioned in any proceeding whatsoever.

(8) Subject to paragraph (7), nothing in this rule prevents the validity of a nomination being questioned on an election petition.

Textual Amendments

F55 Sch. 3 rule 10(2A) inserted (1.3.2012) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2012 (S.I. 2012/198), rules 1(1), 5(3)

F56 Words in Sch. 3 rule 10(6) substituted (1.3.2012) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2012 (S.I. 2012/198), rules 1(1), 5(4)

Publication of statement of persons nominated U.K.

11.—(1) The GLRO must prepare and publish a statement showing the persons who have been and stand nominated and any other persons who have been nominated together with the reason why they no longer stand nominated.

(2) The statement must show the names, addresses and descriptions of the persons nominated as given in their nomination papers.

(3) If a person's nomination paper gives a commonly used surname or forename, or both surname and forename in addition to another name, the statement must show the person's commonly used surname or forename, or both surname and forename (as the case may be) instead of any other name.

(4) Paragraph (3) does not apply if the GLRO thinks—

(a) that the use of the person's commonly used name may be likely to mislead or confuse electors, or

(b) that the commonly used name is obscene or offensive.

(5) If paragraph (4) applies, the GLRO must give notice in writing to the candidate of his reasons for refusing to allow the use of a commonly used name.

(6) The statement must show the persons standing nominated arranged alphabetically in the order of their surnames, and if there are two or more of them with the same surname, of their other names.

(7) In the case of a person nominated by more than one nomination paper, the GLRO must take the particulars required by the foregoing provisions of this rule from such one of the papers as the candidate (or the GLRO in default of the candidate) may select.

Correction of minor errors U.K.

12.—(1) The GLRO may, if he thinks fit, at any time before the publication under rule 11 of the statement of persons nominated, correct minor errors in a nomination paper.

(2) Errors which may be corrected include—

(a) errors as to a person's electoral number,

(b) obvious errors of spelling in relation to the details of a candidate.

(3) Anything done by the GLRO in pursuance of this rule may not be questioned in any proceedings other than proceedings on an election petition.

(4) The GLRO must have regard to any guidance issued by the Electoral Commission for the purposes of this rule.

Inspection of nomination papers and consent to nomination U.K.

13.—(1) During ordinary office hours, in the period starting 24 hours after the latest time for the delivery of nomination papers and before the date of the poll, any person may inspect and take copies of, or extracts from, nomination papers and consents to nomination.

(2) Inspection under paragraph (1) may not take place on a day that is specified in rule 4(1).

Withdrawal of candidature U.K.

14.—(1) A candidate may withdraw his candidature by notice of withdrawal—

(a) signed by him and attested by one witness, whose name and address must be given, and

(b) delivered to the GLRO at the place for delivery of nomination papers,

by the end of the period for the delivery of notices of withdrawals of candidature in the timetable in rule 3.

(2) Where a candidate is outside the United Kingdom, a notice of withdrawal signed by his election agent and accompanied by a written declaration also so signed of the candidate's absence from the United Kingdom will be of the same effect as a notice of withdrawal signed by the candidate; but where the candidate stands nominated by more than one nomination paper a notice of withdrawal under this paragraph will be effective if, and only if, it is accompanied, in addition to that declaration, by a written statement signed by the candidate that the person giving the notice is authorised to do so on the candidate's behalf during his absence from the United Kingdom.

Method of election U.K.

15.  If, after any withdrawals under rule 14—

(a) more than two candidates remain validly nominated, a poll must be taken in accordance with Parts 4 and 5 of these Rules;

(b) only two candidates remain validly nominated, a poll must be taken in accordance with Part 4;

(c) only one candidate remains validly nominated, that person must be declared to be elected in accordance with Part 6.

PART 4 U.K. Contested Elections

Poll to be taken by ballot U.K.

16.  The votes at the poll must be given by ballot.

The ballot papers U.K.

17.—(1) The ballot of every person entitled to a mayoral vote at the election must consist of a ballot paper which must be in the appropriate form.

(2) Each person remaining validly nominated at the election, after any withdrawals, and no other, is entitled to have their name inserted in the ballot paper at that election.

(3) Every ballot paper—

(a) must [F57 , so far as practicable for the purposes of electronic counting,] be printed in accordance with the directions set out in the Forms Schedule,

(b) must contain the names and other particulars of the candidates as shown in the statement of persons nominated,

(c) must have a number and other unique identifying mark printed on the back, and

(d) may, in the case of ballot papers for use at polling stations, be marked with the words “do not fold”.

(4) If a candidate who is the subject of a party's authorisation under rule 6(5) so requests, the ballot paper must contain, against the candidate's particulars, the party's registered emblem (or, as the case may be, one of the party's registered emblems).

[F58 (4A) If a candidate who is the subject of an authorisation by two or more parties under rule 6(7) so requests, the ballot paper must contain, against the candidate’s particulars, the registered emblem (or, as the case may be, one of the registered emblems) of one of those parties.]

(5) The candidate's request under paragraph (4) [F59 or paragraph (4A)] must—

(a) be made in writing to the GLRO, and

(b) be received by him during the period for delivery of nomination papers set out in the timetable in rule 3.

(6) The names of the candidates must be arranged alphabetically in order of their surnames and, if there are two or more of them with the same surname, of their other names.

(7) The GLRO must supply the ballot papers for use at the election to the CRO by such date as may be agreed between them.

(8) The ballot papers supplied under paragraph (7) must be of a different colour from those used at any other Authority election with which the election is taken.

Textual Amendments

F57 Words in Sch. 3 rule 17(3)(a) inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 8(3)

F58 Sch. 3 rule 17(4A) inserted (1.3.2012) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2012 (S.I. 2012/198), rules 1(1), 5(5)(a)

F59 Words in Sch. 3 rule 17(5) inserted (1.3.2012) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2012 (S.I. 2012/198), rules 1(1), 5(5)(b)

The corresponding number list U.K.

18.—(1) The CRO must prepare a list containing the numbers and other unique identifying marks of all of the ballot papers to be issued by him in pursuance of rule 23(1) or provided by him in pursuance of rule 28(1).

(2) The list must be in the appropriate form or a form to like effect.

(3) At an ordinary election, the same list may be used for each Authority election with which the election is combined.

The official mark U.K.

19.—(1) Every ballot paper must contain an appropriate security marking (the official mark).

(2) The official mark must be kept secret, and an interval of not less than five years must intervene between the use of the same official mark at any Authority election.

(3) The GLRO may use a different official mark for different purposes at the same election.

Prohibition of disclosure of vote U.K.

20.  No person who has voted at the election may, in any legal proceeding to question the election, be required to state for whom he has voted.

Use of schools and public rooms U.K.

21.—(1) The CRO may use, free of charge, for the purpose of taking the poll or counting the votes—

(a) a room in a school maintained or assisted by a [F60 local authority (as defined in the Education Act 1996)] or a school in respect of which grants are made out of moneys provided by Parliament to the person or body of persons responsible for the management of the school,

(b) a room the expense of maintaining which is met by any local authority.

(2) In relation to an election to fill a vacancy in the office of the Mayor, the CRO must make good any damage done to, and defray any expense incurred by the persons having control over, any such room as is mentioned in paragraph (1) by reason of its being used for the purpose of taking the poll or counting the votes.

Textual Amendments

F60 Words in Sch. 3 rule 21(1)(a) substituted (5.5.2010) by The Local Education Authorities and Children’s Services Authorities (Integration of Functions) (Local and Subordinate Legislation) Order 2010 (S.I. 2010/1172), art. 1(1), Sch. 3 para. 77(2)

Notice of poll U.K.

22.—(1) The GLRO must, in accordance with the timetable in rule 3, publish notice of the poll stating—

(a) the day and hours fixed for the poll,

(b) particulars of each candidate remaining validly nominated,

and rule 11(6) applies in relation to the order in which names and particulars appear on the notice of the poll as it applies in relation to the statement of persons nominated.

(2) The CRO must, not later than the time of the publication of the notice of the poll, also give public notice of—

(a) the situation of each polling station, and

(b) the description of voters entitled to vote there,

and he must as soon as practicable after giving such a notice give a copy of it to each of the election agents.

(3) At an ordinary election, the notice of poll must include the heading “GREATER LONDON AUTHORITY ELECTION”.

Postal ballot papers U.K.

23.—(1) The CRO must, in accordance with regulations made under the 1983 Act M42 , issue to those entitled to vote by post a ballot paper and a postal voting statement, together with such envelopes for their return as may be prescribed in such regulations.

(2) The postal voting statement must be in the appropriate form or a form to like effect.

(3) The postal voting statement must include provision for the form to be signed and for stating the date of birth of the elector or proxy (as the case may be).

(4) The CRO must also issue to those entitled to vote by post such information as he thinks appropriate about how to obtain—

(a) translations into languages other than English of any directions to or guidance for voters sent with the ballot paper,

(b) a translation into Braille of such directions or guidance,

(c) graphical representations of such directions or guidance,

(d) the directions or guidance in any other form (including any audible form).

(5) In the case of a ballot paper issued to a person at an address in the United Kingdom, the CRO must ensure that the return of the ballot paper and postal voting statement is free of charge to the voter.

(6) Where the proceedings on the issue and receipt of postal ballot papers at the election are taken together with any other Authority election the appropriate form of postal voting statement under paragraph (2) may be the joint postal voting statement which must be in the appropriate form or form to like effect.

Marginal Citations

M42 See the Representation of the People (England and Wales) Regulations 2001 S.I. 2001/341 as amended by S.I. 2002/1871, 2006/752 and S.I. 2006/2910.

Provision of polling stations U.K.

24.—(1) The CRO must provide a sufficient number of polling stations and, subject to the following provisions of this rule, must allot the electors to the polling stations in such manner as he thinks most convenient.

(2) One or more polling stations may be provided in the same room.

(3) The polling station allotted to electors from any parliamentary polling district wholly or partly within the Assembly constituency must, in the absence of special circumstances, be in the parliamentary polling place for that district, unless that place is outside the Assembly constituency.

(4) The CRO must provide each polling station with such number of compartments as may be necessary in which the voters can mark their votes screened from observation.

Appointment of presiding officers and clerks U.K.

25.—(1) The CRO must appoint and pay a presiding officer to attend at each polling station and such clerks and technical assistants as may be necessary for the purposes of the election, but he must not appoint any person who has been employed by or on behalf of a candidate in or about the election.

(2) The CRO may, if he thinks fit, preside at a polling station and the provisions of this Part relating to a presiding officer apply to the CRO so presiding with the necessary modifications as to things to be done by the CRO to the presiding officer or by the presiding officer to the CRO.

(3) A presiding officer may do, by the clerks appointed to assist him, any act (including the asking of questions) which he is required or authorised by this Part to do at a polling station except order the arrest, exclusion or removal of any person from the polling station.

Issue of official poll cards U.K.

26.—(1) The CRO must as soon as practicable after the publication of the notice of election, send to electors and their proxies an official poll card.

(2) An elector's official poll card must be sent or delivered to his qualifying address, and a proxy's to his address as shown in the list of proxies.

(3) The official poll card must be in the appropriate form or a form to like effect, and must set out—

(a) that the election is a mayoral election,

(b) the elector's name, qualifying address and number on the register,

(c) the date and hours of the poll and the situation of the elector's polling station, and

(d) such other information as the CRO thinks appropriate,

and different information may be provided in pursuance of sub-paragraph (d) to different electors or descriptions of elector.

(4) In the case of an elector with an anonymous entry, instead of containing the matter mentioned in paragraph (3)(b), the polling card must contain such matter as is specified in the appropriate form.

(5) At an ordinary election, the CRO must issue a combined poll card in the appropriate form.

(6) In this rule “elector” means—

(a) an elector with an entry on the register to be used at the election on the last day for the publication of the notice of the election, and

(b) includes a person then shown in the register as below voting age if (but only if) it appears from the register that he will be of voting age on the day fixed for the poll.

Information for voters U.K.

27.—(1) At an ordinary election, the GLRO may, in addition to a statement by him in an election booklet, include in the booklet information for voters that has been agreed by him with the Electoral Commission.

(2) The information for voters given in the election booklet may include information about—

(a) the office of the Mayor and the London Assembly,

(b) the system of voting at each Authority election,

(c) how to vote in a manner that will ensure a vote is regarded as validly cast, and

subject to paragraph (3), may include any other information given in exercise of the GLRO's duty under section 69 (encouraging electoral participation) of the 2006 Act.

(3) The information for voters must not contain–

(a) any advertising material,

(b) any material referring to a candidate or a registered party other than by reproduction of a ballot paper which refers equally to all candidates and parties at the ordinary election,

(c) any material referring to the holder, at any time, of the office of Mayor or Assembly member, other than under paragraph (b) as a candidate at the ordinary election.

(4) Information published in an election booklet under this rule must be printed on not more than two sides of A5 paper.

Equipment of polling stations U.K.

28.—(1) The CRO must provide each presiding officer with—

(a) such ballot papers as may be necessary, and

(b) such ballot boxes as may be necessary having taken account of any direction made by the GLRO in accordance with paragraph (9).

(2) Every ballot box must be so constructed that the ballot papers can be put in it, but cannot be withdrawn from it, without the box being unlocked or, where the box has no lock, the seal being broken.

(3) The CRO must provide each polling station with—

(a) materials to enable voters to mark the ballot papers,

(b) copies of the register of electors for such part of it as contains the entries relating to the electors allotted to the station,

(c) the parts of any special lists prepared for the election corresponding to the register of electors or the part of it provided under sub-paragraph (b),

(d) a list consisting of that part of the list prepared under rule 18 which contains the numbers (but not the other unique identifying marks) corresponding to those on the ballot papers provided to the presiding officer of the polling station.

(4) The reference in paragraph (3)(b) to the copies of the register of electors includes a reference to copies of any notices issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act M43 in respect of alterations to the register.

(5) The CRO must also provide each polling station with a device for enabling voters who are blind or partially sighted to vote without any need for assistance from the presiding officer or any companion within the meaning of rule 40.

(6) The device referred to in paragraph (5) above must–

(a) allow a ballot paper to be inserted into and removed from or attached to and detached from the device, easily and without damage to the paper,

(b) keep the ballot paper firmly in place during use, and

(c) provide suitable means for the voter to—

(i) identify the spaces on the ballot paper on which he may mark his vote,

(ii) identify the candidate to whom each such space refers, and

(iii) mark his vote on the space he has chosen.

(7) The enlarged sample copies of the ballot paper that the GLRO is required to provide, or cause to be displayed at every polling station (in accordance with section 199B(5) and (7) of the 1983 Act) must—

(a) be provided to the CRO who will deliver them to the polling stations, and

(b) be printed on paper of the same colour as the ballot paper at the election.

(8) The CRO must also provide each polling station with notices for the guidance of voters, which must be exhibited—

(a) outside the polling station,

(b) inside the polling station—

(i) in the communal areas, and

(ii) in every voting compartment.

(9) If the GLRO thinks fit he may, not later than the date of the notice of election, direct the CRO that joint ballot boxes must be used for the ballot papers at the election and any or all Authority elections with which the election is taken.

Marginal Citations

M43 Section 13B of the 1983 Act was inserted by paragraph 3 of Schedule 2 to the Representation of the People Act 2000 (c.2) and amended by section 11(3) of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22). Subsections (3B) and (3D) of section 13B were inserted by section 11(4) of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22).

Notices for the guidance of voters U.K.

29.—(1) The GLRO must prepare and provide each CRO with the notices to be exhibited under rule 28(8).

(2) The GLRO may provide each CRO with versions of the notices in such other form as he thinks appropriate, in accordance with section 199B (translations etc of certain documents) of the 1983 Act.

(3) Notices for the guidance of voters exhibited under rule 28(8) or paragraph (2) must be in the appropriate form, but may include such alternative information relating to Authority elections as—

(a) meets with the requirements of the Notices Schedule, and

(b) the GLRO may decide.

(4) Notices provided under paragraph (2) may, if the CRO agrees, be exhibited at any polling station—

(a) outside the polling station,

(b) inside the polling station—

(i) in the communal areas,

(ii) in every voting compartment.

Appointment of polling and counting agents U.K.

30.—(1) Before the commencement of the poll, each candidate may appoint—

(a) polling agents to attend at polling stations for the purpose of detecting personation, and

(b) counting agents to attend at the mayoral count.

(2) The same person may be appointed as a polling agent or counting agent by more than one candidate.

(3) For each local count, one (but no more than one) counting agent of each candidate may be authorised by the terms of his appointment to require a re-count at that count.

(4) Not more than four polling agents, or such greater number as the CRO may by notice allow, may be permitted to attend at any particular polling station.

(5) If the number of such agents appointed to attend at a particular polling station exceeds that number, the CRO must determine by lot which agents are permitted to attend, and only the agents on whom the lot falls will be deemed to have been duly appointed.

(6) The CRO may limit the number of counting agents, but in doing so must ensure that—

(a) the number is the same in the case of each candidate, and

(b) the number allowed to a candidate must not (except in special circumstances) be less than the number obtained by dividing the number of clerks employed on the counting by the number of candidates.

(7) For the purposes of the calculations required by paragraph (6) a counting agent appointed for more than one candidate is a separate agent for each of the candidates for whom he has been appointed.

(8) Notice in writing of the appointment of polling and counting agents, stating the names and addresses of the persons appointed, must be given by the candidate to the CRO and must be so given not later than the fifth day (computed in accordance with rule 4) before the day of the poll.

(9) If an agent dies, or becomes incapable of acting, the candidate or, as the case may be, the election agent, may appoint another person in his place, and must forthwith give to the CRO notice in writing of the name and address of that other person.

(10) Any appointment authorised by this rule may be made and the notice of appointment given to the CRO by the candidate's election agent, instead of by the candidate.

(11) In the following provisions of this Part references to polling agents and counting agents must be taken as reference to agents—

(a) whose appointments have been duly made and notified, and

(b) where the number of agents is restricted, who are within the permitted numbers.

(12) Any notice required to be given to a counting agent by the CRO may be delivered at, or sent by post to, the address stated in the notice of appointment.

(13) A candidate may himself do any act or thing which any polling or counting agent of his, if appointed, would have been authorised to do, or may assist his agent in doing any such act or thing.

(14) A candidate's election agent may do or assist in doing anything which a polling or counting agent of his is authorised to do, and anything required or authorised by these Rules to be done in the presence of the polling or counting agent may be done in the presence of a candidate's election agent instead of his polling agent or counting agent.

(15) Where by these Rules any act or thing is required or authorised to be done in the presence of the polling or counting agents, the non-attendance of any agent or agents at the time and place appointed for the purpose will not, if the act or thing is otherwise duly done, invalidate the act or thing done.

Notification of requirement of secrecy U.K.

31.— [F61 (1)] The CRO must make such arrangements as he thinks fit to ensure that—

(a) every person attending at a polling station (otherwise than for the purpose of voting or assisting a voter with disabilities to vote or as a constable on duty there) has been given a copy of the provisions of subsections (1), (3) and (6) of section 66 (requirement of secrecy) of the Representation of the People Act 1983 M44 , and

(b) every person attending at the counting of the votes (other than any constable on duty at the counting) has been given a copy of the provisions of subsections (2) and (6) of that section.

[F62 (2) In paragraph (1) a reference to a constable includes a person designated as a community support officer under section 38 of the 2002 Act (police powers for employees).]

Textual Amendments

F61 Sch. 3 rule 31 renumbered as Sch. 3 rule 31(1) (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 5(4)(a)

F62 Sch. 3 rule 31(2) inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 5(4)(a)

Marginal Citations

M44 1983 c. 2; Section 66 of that Act was amended by the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c. 22).

Return of postal ballot papers U.K.

32.—(1) Where—

(a) a postal vote has been returned in respect of a person who is entered on the postal voters list, or

(b) a proxy postal vote has been returned in respect of a proxy who is entered on the proxy postal voters list,

the CRO must mark the list in the manner prescribed by regulations made under the 1983 Act M45 .

(2) Rule 49(2) does not apply for the purpose of determining whether, for the purposes of this rule, a postal vote or a proxy postal vote is returned.

Marginal Citations

M45 1983 c. 2; Regulation 84A of the Representation of the People (England and Wales) Regulations 2001 S.I. 2001/341 as amended by S.I. 2006/2910 provides the circumstances in which a postal vote should be treated as returned for this purpose.

Admission to polling station U.K.

33.—(1) The presiding officer must exclude all persons from the polling station except—

(a) voters,

(b) persons under the age of 18 who accompany voters to the polling station,

(c) the candidates and their election agents,

(d) the polling agents appointed to attend at the polling station,

(e) the clerks appointed to attend at the polling station,

(f) persons who are entitled to attend by virtue of any of sections 6A to 6D of the 2000 Act,

(g) the constables on duty, and

(h) the companions of voters with disabilities.

(2) The presiding officer must regulate the total number of voters and persons under the age of 18 who accompany them to be admitted to the polling station at the same time.

(3) Not more than one polling agent may be admitted at the same time to a polling station on behalf of the same candidate.

(4) A constable or person employed by the CRO must not be admitted to vote in person elsewhere than at his own polling station allotted to him under these Rules, except on production and surrender of a certificate as to his employment which must be in the appropriate form and signed by an officer of the police of or above the rank of inspector or by the CRO, as the case may be.

(5) Any certificate surrendered under this rule must forthwith be cancelled.

[F63 (6) In this rule a reference to a constable includes a person designated as a community support officer under section 38 of the 2002 Act.]

Textual Amendments

F63 Sch. 3 rule 33(6) inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 5(4)(b)

Keeping of order in station U.K.

34.—(1) It is the presiding officer's duty to keep order at his polling station.

(2) If a person misconducts himself in a polling station, or fails to obey the presiding officer's lawful orders, he may immediately, by the presiding officer's order, be removed from the polling station—

(a) by a constable in or near that station, or

(b) by any other person authorised in writing by the CRO to remove him,

and the person so removed must not, without the presiding officer's permission, again enter the polling station during the day.

(3) Any person so removed may, if charged with the commission in the polling station of an offence, be dealt with as a person taken into custody by a constable for an offence without a warrant.

(4) The powers conferred by this rule must not be exercised so as to prevent a voter who is otherwise entitled to vote at a polling station from having an opportunity of voting at that station.

Sealing of ballot boxes U.K.

35.  Immediately before the commencement of the poll, the presiding officer must—

(a) show each ballot box, empty, to such persons, if any, as are present in the polling station, so that they may see that the boxes are empty,

(b) lock up such of the boxes as have locks,

(c) place his seal—

(i) on each lock, and

(ii) on each ballot box which has no lock,

in such a manner as to prevent its being opened without breaking the seal,

(d) place each box in his view for the receipt of ballot papers, and

(e) keep each box locked and sealed or, as the case may be, sealed.

Questions to be put to voters U.K.

36.—(1) At the time of the application (but not afterwards), the questions specified in the second column of the following table—

(a) may be put by the presiding officer to a person who is mentioned in the first column, and

(b) must be put if the letter “R” appears after the question and the candidate or his election or polling agent requires the question to be put.

Q. No.	Person applying for ballot paper	Question
1	A person applying as an elector	(a)—Are you the person registered in the register of local government electors for this election as follows (read the whole entry from the register)? [R] (b)—Have you already voted, here or elsewhere in Greater London at this election for the Mayor of London, otherwise than as proxy for some other person?[R]
2	A person applying as proxy	(a)—Are you the person whose name appears as A.B. in the list of proxies for this election as entitled to vote as proxy on behalf of C.D.? [R] (b)—Have you already voted here or elsewhere in Greater London at this election for the Mayor of London, as proxy on behalf of C.D.? [R] (c)—Are you the spouse, civil partner, parent, grandparent, brother, sister, child or grandchild of C.D.? [R]
3	A person applying as proxy for an elector with an anonymous entry (instead of the questions at entry 2)	(a)—Are you the person entitled to vote as proxy on behalf of the elector whose number on the register of electors is (read out the number)? [R] (b)—Have you already voted here or elsewhere in Greater London as proxy on behalf of the elector whose number on the register of electors is (read out the number)? [R] (c)—Are you the spouse, civil partner, parent, grandparent, brother, sister, child or grandchild of the person whose number on the register of electors is (read out the number)? [R]
4	A person applying as proxy if the question at entry 2(c) or 3(c) is not answered in the affirmative	Have you already voted here or elsewhere in Greater London at this election for the Mayor of London, on behalf of two persons of whom you are not the spouse, civil partner, parent, grandparent, brother, sister, child or grandchild? [R]
5	A person applying as an elector in relation to whom there is an entry in the postal voters list	(a)—Did you apply to vote by post? (b)—Why have you not voted by post?
6	A person applying as proxy who is named in the proxy postal voters list	(a)—Did you apply to vote by post as proxy? (b)—Why have you not voted by post as proxy?

(2) In the case of an elector in respect of whom a notice has been issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act, the references in the questions at entries 1(a) and 3(a), (b) and (c) to reading from the register must be taken as references to reading from the notice issued under those subsections.

(3) A ballot paper must not be delivered to any person required to answer any of the above questions unless he has answered each question satisfactorily.

(4) Except as authorised by this rule, no inquiry may be permitted as to the right of any person to vote.

Challenge of voter U.K.

37.  A person must not be prevented from voting because—

(a) a candidate or his election or polling agent declares that he has reasonable cause to believe that the person has committed an offence of personation, or

(b) the person is arrested on the grounds that he is suspected of committing or of being about to commit such an offence.

Voting procedure U.K.

38.—(1) A ballot paper must be delivered to a voter who applies for one, and immediately before delivery—

(a) the number and (unless paragraph (2) applies) name of the elector as stated in the copy of the register of electors must be called out,

(b) the number of the elector must be marked on the list mentioned in rule 28(3)(d) beside the number of the ballot paper to be issued to him,

(c) a mark must be placed in the register of electors against the number of the elector to note that a ballot paper has been applied for but without showing the particular ballot paper which may be delivered,

(d) in the case of a person applying for a ballot paper as proxy, a mark must also be placed against his name in the list of proxies.

(2) In the case of an elector who has an anonymous entry, he must show the presiding officer his official poll card and only his number may be called out in pursuance of paragraph (1)(a).

(3) In the case of an elector who is added to the register in pursuance of a notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act, paragraph (1) is modified as follows—

(a) in sub-paragraph (a), for “copy of the register of electors” substitute “copy of the notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act”,

(b) in sub-paragraph (c), for “in the register of electors” substitute “on the copy of the notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act”.

(4) The voter, on receiving the ballot paper, must forthwith proceed into one of the compartments in the polling station and there secretly mark his paper, and must then show to the presiding officer the back of the paper, so as to disclose the number and other unique identifying mark, and put the ballot paper into the ballot box in the presiding officer's presence, but so as to conceal his vote.

(5) The voter must vote without undue delay, and must leave the polling station as soon as he has put his ballot paper into the ballot box.

(6) A voter who has had a ballot paper delivered to him under paragraph (1), but has decided not to mark it, may return it to the presiding officer and where the voter does so, the presiding officer must—

(a) immediately cancel the ballot paper, and for the purposes of these rules treat it as a spoilt ballot paper,

(b) place a mark beside the number of that ballot paper on the corresponding number list to show that the ballot paper has been cancelled.

(7) At an ordinary election, the same copy of—

(a) the list of proxies,

(b) the list mentioned in rule 28(3)(d),

(c) the register of electors,

(d) any notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act (marked in the case of an elector who is added to the register in pursuance of such a notice),

may be used for each Authority election and one mark may be placed in the list, register or notice (as the case may be) to denote that a ballot paper has been delivered in respect of each Authority election; except that, where a ballot paper has not been issued in respect of any Authority election, a different mark must be placed in the list, register or notice so as to identify the elections in respect of which a ballot paper was issued.

[F64 (8) A voter who at the close of the poll is in the polling station, or in a queue outside the polling station, for the purpose of voting must (despite the close of the poll) be entitled to apply for a ballot paper under paragraph (1); and these rules apply in relation to such a voter accordingly.]

Textual Amendments

F64 Sch. 3 rule 38(8) inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 9(3)(a)

Votes marked by presiding officer U.K.

39.—(1) The presiding officer, on the application of a voter—

(a) who is incapacitated by blindness or other disability from voting in the manner directed by these Rules, or

(b) who declares orally that he is unable to read,

must, in the presence of the polling agents, cause the voter's vote to be marked on a ballot paper in the manner directed by the voter, and the ballot paper to be placed in the ballot box.

(2) The name and number on the register of electors of every voter whose vote is marked in pursuance of this rule, and the reason why it is so marked, must be entered on a list (in these Rules called “the list of votes marked by the presiding officer”). In the case of a person voting as proxy for an elector, the number to be entered together with the voter's name must be the elector's number.

(3) In the case of a person in respect of whom a notice has been issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act M46 , paragraph (2) applies as if for “on the register of electors of every voter” there were substituted “relating to every voter in respect of whom a notice has been issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act”.

(4) At an ordinary election, the same list may be used for each Authority election, and where it is so used, an entry in that list must be taken to mean that the ballot papers were so marked in respect of each Authority election, unless the list identifies the election for which the ballot paper was so marked.

Marginal Citations

M46 Section 13B of the 1983 Act was inserted by paragraph 3 of Schedule 2 to the Representation of the People Act 2000 (c.2) and amended by section 11(3) of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22). Subsections (3B) and (3D) of section 13B were inserted by section 11(4) of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22).

Voting by persons with disabilities U.K.

40.—(1) If a voter makes an application to the presiding officer to be allowed, on the ground of—

(a) blindness or other disability, or

(b) inability to read,

to vote with the assistance of another person by whom he is accompanied (in these Rules referred to as “the companion”), the presiding officer must require the voter to declare, orally or in writing, whether he is so incapacitated by his blindness or other disability, or by his inability to read, as to be unable to vote without assistance.

(2) If the presiding officer—

(a) is satisfied that the voter is so incapacitated, and

(b) is also satisfied by a written declaration made by the companion (in these Rules referred to as “the declaration made by the companion of a voter with disabilities”) that the companion—

(i) is a qualified person within the meaning of these Rules, and

(ii) has not previously assisted more than one voter with disabilities to vote at the election,

the presiding officer must grant the application, and then anything which is by these Rules required to be done to, or by that voter in connection with the giving of his vote may be done to, or with the assistance of, the companion.

(3) For the purpose of these Rules, a person is a voter with disabilities if he has made such a declaration as is mentioned in paragraph (1) above, and a person may be qualified to assist a voter with disabilities to vote if that person—

(a) is a person who is entitled to vote as an elector at the election, or

(b) is the father, mother, brother, sister, spouse, civil partner, son or daughter of the voter and has attained the age of 18 years.

(4) The name and number in the register of electors of every voter whose vote is given in accordance with this rule and the name and address of the companion must be entered on a list (in these Rules referred to as the “list of voters with disabilities assisted by companions”). In the case of a person voting as proxy for an elector, the number to be entered together with the voter's name must be the elector's number.

(5) In the case of a person in respect of whom a notice has been issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act, paragraph (4) applies as if for “in the register of electors of every voter” there were substituted “relating to every voter in respect of whom a notice has been issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act”.

(6) The declaration made by the companion—

(a) must be in the appropriate form, and

(b) must be made before the presiding officer at the time when the voter applies to vote with the assistance of a companion, and

(c) must forthwith be given to the presiding officer who must attest and retain it.

(7) No fee or other payment may be charged in respect of the declaration.

(8) At an ordinary election, the same list of voters with disabilities assisted by companions may be used for each Authority election, and where it is so used, an entry in that list must be taken to mean that the votes were so given in respect of each Authority election, unless the list identifies the election for which the vote was so given.

Tendered ballot papers: circumstances where available U.K.

41.—(1) If a person, representing himself to be—

(a) a particular elector named in the register and not named in the absent voters list, or

(b) a particular person named in the list of proxies as proxy for an elector and not entitled to vote by post as proxy,

applies for a ballot paper after another person has voted in person either as the elector or his proxy, the applicant must, on satisfactorily answering the questions permitted by law to be asked at the poll, be entitled, subject to the following provisions of this rule and rule 42, to mark a ballot paper (in these Rules referred to as “a tendered ballot paper”) in the same manner as any other voter.

(2) Paragraph (4) applies if—

(a) a person applies for a ballot paper representing himself to be a particular elector named in the register,

(b) he is also named in the postal voters list, and

(c) he claims that he did not make an application to vote by post at the election.

(3) Paragraph (4) also applies if—

(a) a person applies for a ballot paper representing himself to be a particular person named as a proxy in the list of proxies,

(b) he is also named in the proxy postal voters list, and

(c) he claims that he did not make an application to vote by post as proxy.

(4) The person must, on satisfactorily answering the questions permitted by law to be asked at the poll, be entitled, subject to the following provisions of this rule and rule 42, to mark a ballot paper (in these Rules referred to as a “tendered ballot paper”) in the same manner as any other voter.

(5) Paragraph (6) applies if before the close of the poll but after the last time at which a person may apply for a replacement postal ballot paper, a person represents himself to be—

(a) a particular elector named in the register who is also named in the postal voters list, or

(b) a particular person named as a proxy in the list of proxies and who is also named in the proxy postal voters list,

and claims that he has lost or has not received his postal ballot paper.

(6) The person must, on satisfactorily answering the questions permitted by law to be asked at the poll, be entitled, subject to the provisions of this rule and rule 42, to mark a ballot paper (in these Rules referred to as a “tendered ballot paper”) in the same manner as any other voter.

Tendered ballot papers: general provisions U.K.

42.—(1) A tendered ballot paper must—

(a) be of a colour differing from the other ballot papers,

(b) instead of being put into the ballot box, be given to the presiding officer and endorsed by him with the name of the voter and his number on the register of electors, and set aside in a separate packet.

(2) The name of the voter and his number on the register of electors must be entered on a list (in these Rules referred to as the “tendered votes list”).

(3) In the case of a person voting as proxy for an elector, the number to be endorsed or entered together with the voter's name must be the number of that elector.

(4) In the case of an elector who has an anonymous entry, this rule and rule 41 apply subject to the following modifications—

(a) in paragraphs (1)(b) and (2) above, the references to the name of the voter must be ignored,

(b) otherwise, a reference to a person named on a register or list must be construed as a reference to a person whose number appears in the register or list (as the case may be).

(5) In the case of a person in respect of whom a notice has been issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act, this rule and rule 41 apply as if—

(a) in rule 41(1)(a), (2)(a) and (5)(a), for “named in the register” there were substituted “in respect of whom a notice under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act has been issued”,

(b) in paragraph (1)(b) of this rule for “his number in the register of electors” there were substituted “the number relating to him on a notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act”,

(c) in paragraph (2) of this rule, for “his number in the register of electors” there were substituted “the number relating to him on a notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act”.

(6) At an ordinary election, the same list may be used for each Authority election, and where it is so used, an entry in that list must be taken to mean that tendered ballot papers were marked in respect of each Authority election, unless the list identifies the election for which a tendered ballot paper was delivered.

Spoilt and replacement ballot papers U.K.

43.—(1) A voter who has inadvertently dealt with his ballot paper in such manner that it cannot be conveniently used as a ballot paper may, on delivering it to the presiding officer and proving to his satisfaction the fact of the inadvertence, obtain a replacement for the ballot paper so delivered (in these Rules referred to as “ a spoilt ballot paper”), and the spoilt ballot paper must be immediately cancelled.

(2) If a voter decides, after he has returned his ballot paper and it has been cancelled in accordance with rule 38(6), but before the close of the poll, that he wishes to vote in the election, he may obtain a replacement for the returned ballot paper.

(3) Before a replacement ballot paper is obtained, the presiding officer must mark the corresponding number list that was marked under rule 38(1) (the corresponding number list)—

(a) in the case of a ballot paper being replaced under paragraph (1) or (2), beside the number of the replacement ballot paper obtained to show—

(i) the number of the elector, and

(ii) the number of the ballot paper which is being replaced; and

(b) in the case of a ballot paper being replaced under paragraph (1), beside the number of the spoilt ballot paper to show that the ballot paper was replaced.

(4) At an ordinary election, the voter must only receive a replacement for a spoilt or returned ballot paper.

(5) If the same corresponding number list is used for more than one Authority election in accordance with rule 38(7)—

(a) the marks made under paragraph (3) must identify the election for which a ballot paper has been replaced, and

(b) any ballot paper which the voter has not applied for or obtained as a replacement, but which bears the same ballot paper number as a ballot paper delivered under rule 38(1), or obtained under paragraph (1) or (2) of this rule—

(i) must not be delivered to the voter,

(ii) must be cancelled, and

(iii) for the purposes of these rules, must be treated as a spoilt ballot paper.

Correction of errors on day of poll U.K.

44.—(1) The presiding officer must keep a list of persons to whom ballot papers are delivered in consequence of an alteration to the register made by virtue of section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act which takes effect on the day of the poll.

(2) At an ordinary election, the same list may be used for each Authority election, and where it is so used, an entry in that list must be taken to mean that ballot papers were delivered in respect of each Authority election, unless the list identifies the election for which a tendered ballot paper was delivered.

Adjournment of poll in case of riot U.K.

45.—(1) Where the proceedings at any polling station are interrupted or obstructed by riot or open violence, the presiding officer must adjourn the proceedings till the following day and must forthwith give notice to the CRO.

(2) Where the poll is adjourned at any polling station—

(a) the hours of polling on the day to which it is adjourned must be the same as for the original day, and

(b) references in these Rules to the close of the poll must be construed accordingly.

(3) As soon as practicable after the CRO has received notice of the adjournment of a poll he must inform the GLRO of that fact and of the cause of its adjournment.

Procedure on close of poll U.K.

46.—(1) As soon as practicable after the close of the poll, the presiding officer must, in the presence of the polling agents, make up into separate packets, sealed with his own seal and the seals of such polling agents as desire to affix their seals–

(a) each ballot box in use at the station, sealed so as to prevent the introduction of additional ballot papers and unopened, but with the key attached,

(b) the unused and spoilt ballot papers placed together,

(c) the tendered ballot papers,

(d) the marked copies of the register of electors (including any marked copy notices issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act) and of the list of proxies,

(e) the list prepared under rule 18, including the part completed in accordance with rule 38(1)(b) (together referred to in these Rules as “the completed corresponding number list”),

(f) the certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll,

(g) the tendered votes list, the list of voters with disabilities assisted by companions, the list of votes marked by the presiding officer, a statement of the number of voters whose votes are so marked by the presiding officer under the heads “disability” and “unable to read”, the list maintained under rule 44, and the declarations made by the companions of voters with disabilities,

and must deliver the packets or cause them to be delivered to the CRO to be taken charge of by him; but if the packets are not delivered by the presiding officer personally to the CRO, the arrangements for their delivery must be approved by the CRO.

(2) The contents of the packets referred to in paragraph (1)(b), (c) and (f) must not be combined with the contents of the packets made under the corresponding rule that applies at any other Authority election.

(3) The marked copies of the register of electors and of the list of proxies must be in one packet but must not be in the same packet as the completed corresponding number list or the certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll.

(4) The packets must be accompanied by a statement (“the ballot paper account”) showing the number of ballot papers entrusted to the presiding officer, and accounting for them under the heads—

(a) ballot papers issued and not otherwise accounted for,

(b) unused ballot papers,

(c) spoilt ballot papers, and

(d) tendered ballot papers.

(5) At an ordinary election, the statement referred to in paragraph (4) may be combined with the statements produced in relation to other Authority elections and the combined statement must be arranged in such manner as the GLRO may direct.

Attendance at verification and the local count U.K.

47.—(1) As soon as practicable after the close of the poll, the CRO must make arrangements for carrying out, in the presence of the counting agents appointed for the purposes of the election, the verification and the counting of votes and must give to the counting agents notice in writing of the time and place at which he will begin to verify and count the votes.

(2) No person other than—

(a) the CRO and his clerks and technical assistants,

(b) the GLRO,

(c) the candidates and one other person chosen by each of them,

(d) the election agents,

(e) the counting agents,

(f) persons who are entitled to attend by virtue of any of sections 6A to 6D of the 2000 Act,

may be present at the verification and counting of the votes, unless permitted by the CRO to attend.

(3) A person not entitled to attend the verification and local count must not be permitted to do so by the CRO unless he—

(a) is satisfied that the efficient conduct of those proceedings will not be impeded, and

(b) has either consulted the election agents or thought it impracticable to do so.

(4) The CRO must give the counting agents all such reasonable facilities for overseeing the proceedings, and all such information with respect to them, as he can give them consistently with the orderly conduct of the proceedings and the discharge of his duties in connection with them.

Use of the electronic counting system U.K.

48.—(1) The GLRO may provide the CRO with an electronic counting system consisting of computer hardware, software and other equipment or services, for the purpose of counting the number of ballot papers, to verify the ballot paper accounts and to count the votes cast on them.

(2) Any verification of ballot paper accounts, count or re-count at the election conducted using the electronic counting system must be conducted in accordance with rule 49.

(3) If the GLRO has provided the CRO with an electronic counting system for use at the election, the CRO must obtain the prior written consent of the GLRO before he may conduct the verification of ballot paper accounts or count the votes manually.

(4) If the verification of ballot paper accounts, count or re-count has commenced using the electronic counting system but has not been completed, the CRO may, if he considers it appropriate, discontinue the count and instead count the votes manually.

(5) Where the count or a re-count has been conducted using the electronic counting system, the CRO may, if he considers it appropriate, conduct any re-count without using that system.

(6) Where verification or any count or re-count is conducted using the electronic counting system, any of the steps referred to rule 49, in so far as practicable, may be undertaken—

(a) concurrently with any other of those steps, or

(b) in a different order.

Verification and the local count U.K.

49.—(1) The CRO must—

(a) open the ballot boxes from each polling station together, in the presence of the counting agents appointed for the purposes of the election and any other Authority election with which is its combined,

(b) cause the electronic counting system to count such of the postal ballot papers as have been duly returned in accordance with paragraphs (2) and (3) and record separately the number counted,

(c) not mix the contents of any ballot box with the contents of any other ballot box during the conduct of any count or re-count.

(2) A postal ballot paper must not be taken to be duly returned unless—

(a) it is returned in the manner set out in paragraph (3) and reaches the CRO or any polling station in the Assembly constituency that includes the electoral area for which the elector is registered as a local government elector, before the close of the poll,

(b) the postal voting statement, duly signed, is also returned in the manner set out in paragraph (3) and reaches him or such polling station before that time,

(c) the postal voting statement also states the date of birth of the elector or proxy (as the case may be), and

(d) in a case where the steps for verifying the date of birth and signature of an elector or proxy have been prescribed by regulations made under the 1983 Act M47 , the CRO (having taken such steps) verifies the date of birth and signature of the elector or proxy (as the case may be).

(3) The manner in which any postal paper or postal voting statement may be returned—

(a) to the CRO, is by hand or by post,

(b) to a polling station in the Assembly constituency, is by hand.

[F65 (3A) A postal ballot paper or postal voting statement that reaches the CRO or a polling station mentioned in sub-paragraph (a) of paragraph (2) at or after the close of the poll is treated for the purposes of paragraph (2) as reaching that officer or polling station before the close of the poll if it is delivered by a person who, at the close of the poll, is in the polling station, or in a queue outside the polling station, for the purpose of returning it.]

(4) After completing the proceedings under paragraph (1), the CRO must cause the electronic counting system to process the ballot papers so as to —

(a) count the number of ballot papers,

(b) count the number of first preference votes given for each candidate, and

(c) record the way that second preference votes have been given on the ballot papers.

(5) The CRO must not cause the electronic counting system to count any tendered ballot paper.

(6) The CRO must verify each ballot paper account by comparing it with the number of ballot papers processed by the electronic counting system, and the unused and spoilt ballot papers in his possession and the tendered votes list (opening and resealing the packets containing the unused and spoilt ballot papers and the tendered votes list) and must draw up a statement as to the result of the verification, which any election agent may copy.

(7) The CRO, while verifying the ballot paper accounts and counting the votes, must take all proper precautions for preventing any person from seeing the numbers printed on the back of the papers.

(8) The CRO must so far as practicable proceed continuously with counting the votes, allowing only time for refreshment, except that the hours between 5 in the afternoon and 10 on the following morning may be excluded with the prior consent of the GLRO.

(9) During the time so excluded the CRO must—

(a) place the ballot papers and other documents relating to the election under his own seal and the seals of such of the counting agents as desire to affix their seals, and

(b) otherwise take proper precautions for the security of the papers and documents.

Textual Amendments

F65 Sch. 3 rule 49(3A) inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 9(3)(b)

Marginal Citations

M47 See regulation 85 and 85A of the Representation of the People (England and Wales) Regulations 2001 (S.I. 2001/341), which were inserted by S.I. 2006/2910.

Rejected ballot papers U.K.

50.—(1) Any ballot paper—

(a) which does not bear the official mark,

(b) on which anything is written or marked by which the voter can be identified except the printed number and other unique identifying mark on the back,

(c) which is unmarked,

(d) which is void for uncertainty,

is, subject to paragraph (2), void and must not be counted.

(2) A ballot paper on which a vote is marked—

(a) elsewhere than in the proper place, or

(b) otherwise than by means of a cross, or

(c) by more than one mark,

must not for such reason be void if—

(i) at an election at which more than two candidates remain validly nominated, an intention that a first preference vote be given for not more than one of the candidates clearly appears,

(ii) at any other election, an intention that a vote is for one only of the candidates clearly appears.

(3) A ballot paper—

(a) which is not void, and

(b) on which an intention that a second preference vote be given for not more than one of the candidates clearly appears,

will be valid as respects that second preference vote and must be counted accordingly.

(4) Where the electronic counting system identifies a ballot paper that has been marked, but which appears—

(a) to be void, or

(b) to contain a first preference vote that can be counted, and another mark that cannot be counted as a second preference vote,

then that ballot paper must be examined by a clerk appointed by the CRO in the manner referred to in paragraph (7).

(5) If the clerk, having examined the ballot paper, considers that—

(a) it is void, or

(b) that it is marked with a first preference vote that can be counted, but that it is not marked with a second preference vote that can be counted,

then the CRO must examine it in the manner referred to in paragraph (7).

(6) After the CRO examines the ballot paper, he must give his decision as to whether or not—

(a) it is void, or

(b) it is marked with a second preference vote that can be counted.

(7) An examination under paragraph (4) or (5) is to be made by the clerk or CRO examining an image of the ballot paper which is shown on a screen so as to be visible to those attending the count.

(8) The CRO may examine any ballot paper that he is not required to examine in accordance with paragraphs (5)—

(a) either in the manner referred to in paragraph (7), or

(b) by examining a paper copy,

and where the CRO does so, he must give a decision on that paper in accordance with paragraph (6),

(9) No person attending the count is to be entitled to require the clerk or CRO to examine a ballot paper or to provide a paper copy for inspection.

(10) A record of the CRO's decision under paragraph (6) must be retained in the electronic counting system together, in the case of a decision that the ballot is void, with his reasons by reference to paragraph (1).

(11) If a counting agent objects to the CRO's decision that the ballot paper—

(a) is void, or

(b) is marked with a second preference vote that cannot be counted,

the CRO must record on the electronic counting system that the decision was objected to.

(12) A record must be retained in the electronic counting system of the number of ballot papers which are not void, but on which a second preference vote has not been counted because—

(a) a vote has not been marked,

(b) a vote has been given for more than one candidate, or

(c) there is uncertainty as to for whom a vote was given.

(13) The CRO must draw up a statement showing the number of rejected ballot papers under the several heads of—

(a) want of an official mark,

(b) voting for more than one candidate as to first preference vote,

(c) writing or mark by which the voter could be identified,

(d) unmarked as to the first preference vote, and

(e) void for uncertainty.

(14) As soon as practicable after the completion of the statement under paragraph (13) the CRO must inform—

(a) such candidates, election agents and counting agents as are present at the count, and

(b) the GLRO,

of its contents.

(15) The CRO must also include in the statement drawn up under paragraph (13), the numbers of second preference votes for which a record has been retained, set out under the several heads in subparagraphs (12)(a) to (c).

Decisions on ballot papers U.K.

51.  The decision of the CRO on any question arising in respect of a ballot paper is final, but may be subject to review on an election petition.

Re-count U.K.

52.—(1) A candidate or his election agent or a counting agent authorised under rule 30(3) may, if present when the counting or any re-count of the votes, is completed, require the CRO to have the votes re-counted or again re-counted but the CRO may refuse to do so if in his opinion the request is unreasonable.

(2) No step may be taken on the completion of the counting or any re-count of votes, until the candidates and election agents and counting agents authorised under rule 30(1) present at its completion have been given a reasonable opportunity to exercise the right conferred by this rule.

(3) The CRO may determine the extent to which any re-count involves the electronic counting of votes.

(4) When the returning officer uses the electronic counting system for the re-counting of votes, he must not re-consider any decision made on any ballot paper under rule 50(6).

Procedure at conclusion of local count U.K.

53.—(1) As soon as practicable after the conclusion of the local count (including any re-count), the CRO must draw up a statement showing—

(a) the total number of ballot papers used,

(b) the total number of rejected ballot papers,

(c) at an election contested by more than two candidates—

(i) the total number of first preference votes given,

(ii) the number of first preference votes given for each candidate, and

(iii) the total number second preference votes given for each candidate correlated with the way the first preference votes have been cast.

(d) at an election contested by only two candidates, the number of votes given for each candidate.

(2) As soon as practicable after the statement is drawn up under paragraph (1), the CRO must inform the GLRO of its contents, and if it is practicable to do so, must also provide that information so as to show the total number of votes under each of those heads in each ward F66 ....

(3) As soon as practicable after the GLRO has authorised him to do so, the CRO must—

(a) inform such of the candidates and their election agents as are then present of the contents of the statements prepared in accordance with rule 50 and paragraph (1) of this rule, and

(b) give public notice of the contents of those statements.

Textual Amendments

F66 Words in Sch. 3 rule 53(2) omitted (1.3.2012) by virtue of The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2012 (S.I. 2012/198), rules 1(1), 6

Attendance at the central calculation U.K.

54.—(1) The GLRO must make arrangements for making the calculations made under rules 55 and 56 in the presence of the election agents and he must give to those agents notice in writing of the time and place at which he will begin the calculation.

(2) No person other than—

(a) the GLRO and his clerks,

(b) the CROs and a clerk or technical assistant chosen by each of them,

(c) the candidates and one person chosen by each of them,

(d) the election agents,

(e) persons who are entitled to attend by virtue of any of sections 6A to 6D of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000,

(f) at an ordinary election, the persons permitted to be present at the allocation of seats for London Members of the London Assembly,

may be present at a calculation, unless permitted by the GLRO to attend.

(3) A person not entitled to attend a calculation must not be permitted to do so by the GLRO unless he—

(a) is satisfied that the efficiency of the calculation will not be impeded, and

(b) has either consulted the election agents or thought it impracticable to do so.

The first calculation and resolution of equality U.K.

55.—(1) As soon as the GLRO has received the information required by rule 53 from every CRO he must—

(a) in relation to an election contested by more than two candidates, ascertain the total of the first preference votes given in the Assembly constituencies to each candidate, and

(b) in relation to an election contested by only two candidates, ascertain the total number of votes given in the Assembly constituencies to each candidate.

(2) As soon as the GLRO has ascertained the result of the calculation, he must inform such of the election agents as are then present of the relevant figures and must give them a reasonable opportunity to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the calculation.

(3) In paragraph (2), “the relevant figures” means—

(a) in the case of an election contested by more than two candidates, the number of first preference votes given in each of the Assembly constituencies for each candidate and the calculation undertaken by the GLRO for the purposes of ascertaining whether a candidate is to be returned in accordance with paragraph 3 of Schedule 2 to the 1999 Act (candidate with overall majority of first preference votes),

(b) in the case of an election contested by only two candidates, the number of votes given in each Assembly constituency for each candidate and the total number of votes given for each candidate.

(4) Where an election is contested by more than two candidates—

(a) if paragraph 3 of Schedule 2 to the 1999 Act applies (candidate with overall majority of first preference votes) the declaration of the person to be returned as the Mayor must be made in accordance with rule 57, or

(b) if paragraph 4(1) of that Schedule applies (no candidate with overall majority of first preference votes), the GLRO must proceed with the second calculation in accordance with Part 5.

(5) Where an election is contested by only two candidates and the total number of votes given for each of them is unequal the person to be returned as the Mayor is the candidate to whom the majority of the votes is given.

(6) Where an election is contested by only two candidates and the total number of votes given for each of them is equal, the person to be returned as the Mayor is the person whom the GLRO decides, in accordance with paragraph 4(8) of Schedule 2 to the 1999 Act, is to be returned as the Mayor.

(7) In a case to which paragraph (5) or (6) applies, the declaration of the person to be returned as the Mayor must be made in accordance with rule 57.

PART 5 U.K. Further Provision: More Than Two Candidates

The second calculation and resolution of equality U.K.

56.—(1) As soon as the GLRO has determined that paragraph 4(1) of Schedule 2 to the 1999 Act applies he must comply with paragraphs 4(5) and (6) of Schedule 2 to the 1999 Act.

(2) As soon as the GLRO has ascertained the result of the second calculation, he must provide such of the election agents for those candidates who remain in the contest as are then present with a copy of the relevant figures and must give them a reasonable opportunity to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the calculation.

(3) In paragraph (2), “the relevant figures” means—

(a) the number of second preference votes given in each of the Assembly constituencies for each of the candidates remaining in the contest, and

(b) the calculation undertaken by the GLRO for the purpose of ascertaining the total number of first and second preference votes given to each of those candidates.

(4) If, after the second calculation, the total number of votes given for two or more candidates is equal, the person to be returned as the Mayor is the person whom the GLRO decides, in accordance with paragraph 4(8) of Schedule 2 to the 1999 Act, is to be returned as the Mayor.

PART 6 U.K. Final Proceedings In Contested And Uncontested Elections

Declaration of result U.K.

57.—(1) The GLRO must declare to be elected as the Mayor of London the candidate who, in accordance with section 4(2) of the 1999 Act or Part I of Schedule 2 to that Act (including those provisions as applied by section 16(4) at an election to fill a vacancy), as the case may be, is to be returned as the Mayor at that election.

(2) The GLRO must give public notice of—

(a) the name of the of the person declared to be elected and his authorised description, if any, within the meaning of rule 6(5) or (7),

(b) the total number of first preference votes given for each candidate,

(c) the total number of second preference votes given for each of the candidates remaining in the contest after the count of the first preference votes,

(d) the number of rejected ballot papers at the election under each head shown in the statement of rejected ballot papers, and

(e) the number of ballot papers on which no second preference vote was counted under each head shown in the statement of rejected ballot papers,

(3) In an uncontested election, the GLRO must as soon as practicable after the latest time for the delivery of notices of withdrawals of candidature—

(a) declare to be elected the candidate remaining validly nominated, and

(b) give public notice of the name of the person declared to be elected and his authorised description, if any, within the meaning of rule 6(5) or (7).

(4) Subject to paragraph (5), after the GLRO complies with paragraphs (1) and (2), he may, in so far as is practicable, give public notice of the information referred to paragraph (2)(b) to (e) so as to set out the number of votes falling under each of those heads, in respect of each ward.

(5) Where the sum of first preference votes given for all candidates in any ward does not exceed 500, the GLRO must not give notice under paragraph (4) in respect of that ward alone, but must amalgamate the figures for that ward with those for any other ward in which more than 500 votes have been given, in the same Assembly constituency.

Return or forfeiture of candidate's deposit U.K.

58.—(1) Unless forfeited in accordance with paragraph (5), the deposit made under rule 9 must be returned to the person making it or his personal representative.

(2) Subject to paragraph (4), the deposit must be returned not later than the next day after that on which the result of the election is declared.

(3) For the purposes of paragraph (2)—

(a) a day must be disregarded if, in accordance with rule 4, it would be disregarded in computing any period of time for the purposes of the timetable for the election, and

(b) the deposit must be treated as being returned on a day if a cheque for the amount of the deposit is posted on that day.

(4) If the candidate is not shown as standing nominated in the statement of persons nominated, or if proof of his death has been given to the GLRO before the first calculation under rule 55, the deposit must be returned as soon as practicable after the publication of the statement or after his death, as the case may be.

(5) Where a poll is taken, if, after the first calculation under rule 55, the candidate is found not to have polled more than one-twentieth of the total number of first preference votes polled by all the candidates, the deposit must be forfeited to the Greater London Authority.

PART 7 U.K. Disposal Of Documents

Sealing up of ballot papers U.K.

59.—(1) On the completion of the counting at a contested election the CRO must seal up in separate packets the counted and rejected ballot papers.

(2) Where some or all of the votes have been counted using the electronic counting system, the CRO must also seal up in a separate packet a complete electronic record (“the electronic record”) of the information stored in the electronic counting system, held in such device as may be suitable for the purpose of its storage.

(3) After making the electronic record under paragraph (2), the CRO must arrange for the original records in the electronic counting system to be removed from it and destroyed in a manner that ensures that the secrecy of those records is preserved.

(4) The CRO must not open the sealed packets of—

(a) tendered ballot papers,

(b) certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll,

(c) the completed corresponding number lists, or

(d) marked copies of the register of electors (including any marked copy notices issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act) and lists of proxies.

Delivery and retention of documents U.K.

60.—(1) The CRO must then forward the following documents to the relevant registration officer—

(a) the packets of ballot papers in his possession,

(b) the packet containing the electronic record (if any),

(c) the ballot paper accounts and the statements of rejected ballot papers and of the result of the verification of the ballot paper accounts,

(d) the tendered votes lists, the lists of voters with disabilities assisted by companions, the lists of votes marked by the presiding officer and the related statements, the lists maintained under rule 44 and the declarations made by the companions of voters with disabilities,

(e) the packets of the completed corresponding number lists,

(f) the packets of certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll, and

(g) the packets containing marked copies of registers (including any marked copy notices issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act) and of the postal voters list, of the lists of proxies and of the proxy postal voters list,

endorsing on each packet a description of its contents, the date of the election to which they relate and the name of the Assembly constituency for which the election was held.

Orders for production of documents U.K.

61.—(1) An order—

(a) for the inspection or production of any rejected ballot papers in the custody of the relevant registration officer, or

(b) for the opening of a packet containing the electronic record or a sealed packet of completed corresponding number lists or certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll or the inspection of any counted ballot papers in the custody of the relevant registration officer,

may be made by a county court, if the court is satisfied by evidence on oath that the order is required for the purpose of instituting or maintaining a prosecution for an offence in relation to ballot papers, or for the purpose of an election petition.

(2) An election court may make an order for the opening of a packet containing the electronic record or a sealed packet of completed corresponding number lists or certificates or for the inspection of any counted ballot papers in the custody of the relevant registration officer.

(3) An order under this rule may be made subject to such conditions as to—

(a) persons,

(b) time,

(c) place and mode of inspection,

(d) production or opening,

as the court making the order thinks expedient; but in making and carrying into effect an order for the opening of a packet containing the electronic record or a packet of completed corresponding number lists or certificates or for the inspection of counted ballot papers, care must be taken that the way in which the vote of any particular elector has been given must not be disclosed until it has been proved—

(i) that his vote was given, and

(ii) that the vote has been declared by a competent court to be invalid.

(4) An appeal lies to the High Court from any order of a county court under this rule.

(5) Any power given under this rule to a county court may be exercised by any judge of the court otherwise than in open court.

(6) Where an order is made for the production by the relevant registration officer of any document in his custody relating to any specified election—

(a) the production by him or his agent of the document or electronic record ordered in such manner as may be directed by that order will be conclusive evidence that the document or electronic record relates to the specified election, and

(b) any endorsement on any packet of ballot papers so produced will be prima facie evidence that the ballot papers are what they are stated to be by the endorsement.

(7) The production from proper custody of—

(a) a ballot paper purporting to have been used at any election, or

(b) a copy of the electronic record which purports to record that a particular ballot paper was used at any election, and

a completed corresponding number list with a number written beside the number of the ballot paper, will be prima facie evidence that the elector whose vote was given by that ballot paper was the person who, at the time of the election, had affixed to his entry in the register of electors or on the notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act, the same number as was written on the completed corresponding number list.

(8) Unless authorised by this rule, no person may be allowed to inspect any rejected or counted ballot papers in the custody of the relevant registration officer or open any sealed packets of completed corresponding number lists, certificates of employment on the day of the poll or containing the electronic record.

Retention and destruction of documents and records U.K.

62.  The relevant registration officer must retain or cause to be retained for one year all documents and, where applicable, electronic records relating to an election forwarded to him in pursuance of these Rules by a CRO, and then, unless otherwise directed by an order of a county court, a Crown Court, a magistrate's court or an election court, must cause them to be destroyed.

PART 8 U.K. Death Of Candidate

Deceased independent candidate U.K.

63.—(1) This rule applies if at a contested election proof is given to the GLRO's satisfaction before the result of the election is declared that one of the persons named or to be named in the ballot papers as an independent candidate has died.

(2) Subject to this rule and rules 65 and 66, these rules apply to the election as if the candidate had not died.

(3) The following provisions of these rules do not apply in relation to the deceased candidate—

(a) rule 33(1)(c) and (d) (admission to polling station),

(b) rule 47(2)(c) to (e) (attendance at count),

(c) rule 58(5) (forfeiture of deposit).

(4) If only two persons are shown as standing nominated in the statement of persons nominated the GLRO must—

(a) if polling has not begun, countermand the notice of poll,

(b) if polling has begun, direct that the poll is abandoned, and

(c) subject to rule 66, treat the election as an uncontested election.

(5) For the purposes of this rule a person is named or to be named on the ballot papers as an independent candidate if the description (if any) on his nomination paper is not authorised as mentioned in rule 6(5) or (7).

Deceased independent candidate wins U.K.

64.—(1) This rule applies if at an election mentioned in rule 63 either—

(a) the deceased candidate is given a majority of votes in accordance with rules 55(5) or (6),

(b) the deceased candidate is given more than half of all the first preference votes in accordance with rule 55(4)(a), or

(c) the deceased candidate is given the greatest total number of votes following the second calculation in accordance with rule 56.

(2) Rule 57 (declaration of result) does not apply but the GLRO must—

(a) declare that the majority or greatest total number of votes has been given to the deceased candidate,

(b) declare that no person is returned, and

(c) give public notice of the relevant figures supplied to election agents in accordance with rules 56(2) and 57(2) together with the number of rejected ballot papers under each head shown in the statement of rejected ballot papers.

(3) The provisions of these Rules as to the inspection, production, retention and destruction of ballot papers and other documents apply to any documents relating to a poll to which paragraph (1) applies as they would if the election had resulted in a declaration under rule 57.

(4) Rule 58 (return or forfeiture of candidate's deposit) does not apply in relation to the remaining candidates.

(5) The election must be commenced afresh within the period of 35 days (computed in accordance with rule 4) beginning with the day of the election to which paragraph (1) applies.

(6) The proceedings with reference to the recommenced election must be conducted in accordance with these Rules as modified by the following provisions of this rule and the provisions in the By-election timetable.

(7) No fresh nomination is necessary in the case of a person shown in the statement of persons nominated for the election to which paragraph (1) applies, and no other nomination may be made for the recommenced election.

(8) Instead of the information required by rule 5(1)(a) (date by which nomination papers must be received), the notice of election issued at the recommenced election must state that no fresh nomination may be made.

(9) Rule 9 (deposit) does not apply.

Deceased party candidate U.K.

65.—(1) This rule applies if—

(a) at a contested election, proof is given to the GLRO's satisfaction before the result of the election is declared that one of the persons named or to be named as a candidate in the ballot paper has died, and

(b) that person is standing in the name of a registered party.

(2) The GLRO must—

(a) countermand notice of the poll, or

(b) if polling has begun, direct that the poll be abandoned,

and the provisions of section 39(1) and (5) (local elections void etc. in England and Wales) of the 1983 Act apply in respect of the unfilled vacancy.

(3) For the purposes of this rule—

(a) a person stands in the name of a registered party if his nomination paper contains a description which is authorised as mentioned in rule 6(5) or (7),

(b) a registered party is a party which is registered under Part 2 of the 2000 Act.

Abandoned poll U.K.

66.—(1) This rule applies to—

(a) a poll which is abandoned in pursuance of rule 63(4)(b) as if it were a poll at a contested election, or

(b) a poll which is abandoned in pursuance of rule 65(2)(b)

(2) The presiding officer at any polling station must take the like steps (so far as not already taken) for the delivery to the CRO of the ballot box and of ballot papers and other documents in his possession as he is required to do on the close of the poll.

(3) The CRO must dispose of the ballot papers and other documents in his possession as he is required to do on the completion of the counting of the votes.

(4) It is not necessary for a ballot paper account to be prepared or verified.

(5) The CRO must take no step or further step for the counting of the ballot papers or of the votes.

(6) The CRO must seal up all the ballot papers (whether the votes on them have been counted or not) and it will not be necessary to seal up counted and rejected ballot papers in separate packets.

(7) The provisions of these Rules as to the inspection, production, retention and destruction of ballot papers and other documents relating to a poll at an election apply subject to the modifications in paragraphs (8) and (9).

(8) Ballot papers on which the votes were neither counted nor rejected must be treated as counted ballot papers.

(9) No order is to be made for—

(a) the production or inspection of any ballot papers, or

(b) for the opening of a sealed packet of completed corresponding number lists or certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll,

unless the order is made by a court with reference to a prosecution.

Rule 4

SCHEDULE 4 U.K. MANUAL COUNT RULES

Citation U.K.

1.  This Schedule may be cited as the Manual Count Rules.

Interpretation U.K.

2.—(1) In this Schedule—

“CMER” means the Constituency Members Election Rules in Schedule 1;

“LMER” means the London Members Election Rules in Schedule 2;

“MER” means the Mayoral Election Rules in Schedule 3.

3.  If the votes at an Authority election are counted without the use of an electronic counting system, the CMER, the LMER and the MER will have effect as if the provisions listed in column (1) of Table 1 were modified as shown in column (2). U.K.

Table 1

(1)Rule(s)	(2)Modification
[F67 CMER rule 17 (ballot papers)	In paragraph (3)(a) omit “, so far as practicable for the purposes of electronic counting,”]
[F67 LMER rule 18 (ballot papers)	In paragraph (4)(a) omit “, so far as practicable for the purposes of electronic counting,”]
[F67 MER rule 17 (ballot papers)	In paragraph (3)(a) omit “, so far as practicable for the purposes of electronic counting,”]
CMER rule 47 (attendance at verification and the counting of votes) LMER rule 48 (attendance at verification and the local count) MER rule 47 (attendance at verification and the local count)	In paragraph (1), before “verification” insert “separation,” and after “begin to” insert “separate,”. In paragraph (2)(a) omit “and technical assistants”. After paragraph (4) insert— “(5) In particular, where the votes are counted by sorting the ballot papers according to the candidate for whom the vote is given and then counting the number of ballot papers for each candidate, the counting agents are entitled to satisfy themselves that the ballot papers are correctly sorted.”.
CMER rule 49 (verification and the count)	For paragraph (1) substitute the following paragraphs— “(1) Where the election is at an ordinary election, the CRO must— (a) in the presence of the counting agents appointed for the purposes of the constituency members election, the London members election and the mayoral election, open each ballot box and record separately the number of ballot papers used in each Authority election, (b) in the presence of the election agents appointed for the purposes of those elections, verify each ballot paper account, (c) count such of the postal ballot papers as have been duly returned and record separately the number counted at each Authority election, (d) separate the ballot papers relating to the election from those relating to the other Authority elections. (1A) Where the election is a not at an ordinary election, the CRO must— (a) in the presence of the counting agents open each ballot box and count and record the number of ballot papers in it, (b) in the presence of the election agents verify each ballot paper account, and (c) count such of the postal ballot papers as have been duly returned and record the number counted.”. For paragraph (4) substitute— “(4) After completing the proceedings under paragraph (1) or (1A), the CRO must mix together all of the ballot papers used in the election in the Assembly constituency and must count the votes given on them.”. In paragraph (5) omit the words “cause the electronic counting system to”. For paragraph (6) substitute— “(6) The CRO must verify each ballot paper account by comparing it with the number of ballot papers recorded by him, the unused and spoilt ballot papers in his possession and the tendered votes list (opening and resealing the packets containing the unused and spoilt ballot papers and the tendered votes list) and must draw up a statement as to the result of the verification, which any election agent may copy.”.
LMER rule 50 (verification and the local count)	For paragraph (1) substitute— “(1) The CRO must— (a) in the presence of the counting agents appointed for the purposes of the constituency members election, the London members election and the mayoral election, open each ballot box and record separately the number of ballot papers used in each Authority election, (b) in the presence of the election agents appointed for the purposes of those elections, verify each ballot paper account, (c) count such of the postal ballot papers as have been duly returned and record separately the number counted at each Authority election, (d) separate the ballot papers relating to the election from those relating to the other Authority elections.”. For paragraph (4) substitute— “(4) After completing the proceedings under paragraph (1), the CRO must mix together all of the ballot papers used in the election in the Assembly constituency and must count the votes given on them.”. In paragraph (5) omit the words “cause the electronic counting system to”. For paragraph (6) substitute— “(6) The CRO must verify each ballot paper account by comparing it with the number of ballot papers recorded by him, the unused and spoilt ballot papers in his possession and the tendered votes list (opening and resealing the packets containing the unused and spoilt ballot papers and the tendered votes list) and must draw up a statement as to the result of the verification, which any election agent may copy.”.
MER rule 49 (verification and the local count)	For paragraph (1) substitute the following paragraphs— “(1) Where the election is held at an ordinary election, the CRO must— (a) in the presence of the counting agents appointed for the purposes of the constituency members election, the London members election and the mayoral election, open each ballot box and record separately the number of ballot papers used in each Authority election, (b) in the presence of the election agents appointed for the purposes of those elections, verify each ballot paper account, (c) count such of the postal ballot papers as have been duly returned and record separately the number counted at each Authority election, (d) separate the ballot papers relating to the election from those relating to the other Authority elections. (1A) Where the election is a not held at an ordinary election, the CRO must— (a) in the presence of the counting agents open each ballot box and count and record the number of ballot papers in it, (b) in the presence of the election agents verify each ballot paper account, and (c) count such of the postal ballot papers as have been duly returned and record the number counted.”. For paragraph (4) substitute— “(4) After completing the proceedings under paragraph (1) or (1A), the CRO must mix together all of the ballot papers used at that election in the Assembly constituency and— (a) where the election is contested by more than two candidates, count the first preference votes given on them, (b) where the election is contested by only two candidates, count the votes given on them.”. In paragraph (5) omit the words “cause the electronic counting system to”. For paragraph (6) substitute— “(6) The CRO must verify each ballot paper account by comparing it with the number of ballot papers recorded by him, and the unused and spoilt ballot papers in his possession and the tendered votes list (opening and resealing the packets containing the unused and spoilt ballot papers and the tendered votes list) and must draw up a statement as to the result of the verification, which any election agent may copy.”.
CMER rule 50 LMER rule 51 (rejected ballot papers)	For paragraph (3) substitute— “(3) The CRO must endorse the word “rejected” on any ballot paper which under this rule is not to be counted, and must add to the endorsement the words “rejection objected to” if any objection to his decision is made by a counting agent.”. Omit paragraphs (4) – (10).
MER rule 50 (rejected ballot papers)	For paragraph (4) substitute— “(4) The CRO must endorse the word “rejected” on any ballot paper which under this rule is not to be counted, and must add to the endorsement the words “rejection objected to” if any objection to his decision is made by a counting agent.”. Omit paragraphs (5) to (12). Omit paragraph (13)(e) and for paragraph (13)(d) substitute— “(d) unmarked or void for uncertainty as to the first preference vote.”.
LMER rule 54 (procedure at conclusion of local count)	For paragraph (2) substitute— “(2) As soon as practicable after the statement is drawn up under paragraph (1), the CRO must inform the GLRO of its contents.”.
MER rule 53 (procedure at conclusion of local count)	Omit paragraph (1)(c)(iii). For paragraph (2) substitute— “(2) As soon as practicable after the statement is drawn up under paragraph (1), the CRO must inform the GLRO of its contents.”.
LMER rule 55 (attendance at allocation of seats)	In paragraph (2)(b) omit “or technical assistant”.
MER rule 54 (attendance at the central calculation)	In paragraph (2)(b) omit “or technical assistant”.
MER rule 55 (the first calculation and resolution of equality)	For paragraph (4)(b) substitute— “(b) if paragraph 4(1) of that Schedule applies (no candidate with overall majority of first preference votes), the GLRO must direct every CRO at the election who has counted manually to count the second preference votes given as mentioned in paragraph 4(5) of that Schedule.”. In Part 5, before rule 56 insert— “The count of second preference votes 56ZA.— (1) As soon as the CRO has received such a direction as is mentioned in rule 55(4)(b) he must count the number of second preference votes for each of the candidates remaining in the contest given by voters who did not give their first preference vote to any of those candidates. (2) A ballot paper which is not otherwise void and on which not more than one second preference vote is marked will be valid as respects that vote and must be counted accordingly if, but only if, a valid first preference vote has also been marked. (3) Rules 47, 49, 50, 53 and 55 will apply in relation to the count of second preference votes as they apply in relation to the count of first preference votes, and as if references to first preference votes were references to second preference votes. (4) The CRO may not be required to re-examine any decision taken under rule 50. (5) As soon as practicable after the second preference votes have been counted, the CRO must inform the GLRO of the number of second preference votes cast for each of the candidates remaining in the contest.”.
MER rule 56 (the second calculation and resolution of equality)	For paragraph (1) substitute— “(1) As soon as the GLRO has received the information required by rule 56ZA(5) from every CRO, he must comply with paragraph 4(5) and (6) of Schedule 2 to the 1999 Act.”.
CMER rule 54 (declaration of result)	Omit paragraphs (2) and (3).
LMER rule 57 (declaration of result)	Omit paragraphs (3) and (4).
MER rule 57 (declaration of result)	Omit paragraphs (2)(e), (4) and (5).

Textual Amendments

F67 Words in Sch. 4 rule 3 Table 1 inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 8(4)

Rule 5(3)

SCHEDULE 5 U.K. THE CONSTITUENCY MEMBERS ELECTION RULES

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C5 Sch. 5 applied (with modifications) (18.2.2012) by The Local Authorities (Conduct of Referendums) (Council Tax Increases) (England) Regulations 2012 (S.I. 2012/444), reg. 1, Sch. 4 para. 1 Table 11 (with reg. 27)

PART 1 U.K. General Provisions

Citation U.K.

1.  This Schedule may be cited as the Constituency Members Election Rules.

Interpretation U.K.

2.—(1) In the rules in this Schedule, unless the context indicates otherwise—

“Combination of Polls Regulations” means the Representation of the People (Combination of Polls) (England and Wales) Regulations 2004 M48 ;

“counting observer” has the same meaning as in regulation 2 of the Referendum Regulations;

“counting officer” has the same meaning as in regulation 9 of the Referendum Regulations;

“election” means an election of a constituency member of the London Assembly;

“electoral area” where the Authority election is held together with a referendum, includes a voting area where the referendum is held;

“European Parliamentary election” has the same meaning as in section 27(1) of the Representation of the People Act 1985 M49 ;

“local authority mayoral election” means an election conducted under the Local Authorities (Mayoral Elections) (England and Wales) Regulations 2007 M50 ;

“local counting area” has the same meaning as in regulation 2(1) of the European Parliamentary Elections Regulations 2004 M51 ;

“petition organiser” has the same meaning as in regulation 3 of the Local Authorities (Referendums) (Petitions and Directions) (England) Regulations 2000 M52 ;

“polling observer” has the same meaning as in regulation 2 of the Referendum Regulations;

“referendum” means a referendum conducted under the Referendum Regulations;

“Referendum Regulations” means the Local Authorities (Conduct of Referendums) (England) Regulations 2007 M53 ;

“relevant election or referendum” means one or more of the following—

(a)

a Parliamentary election,

(b)

a European Parliamentary election,

(c)

a local government election (including another Authority election where more than one is taken together),

(d)

a local authority mayoral election or referendum in accordance with regulations made under sections 44 and 105, or 45 and 105, of the Local Government Act 2000 M54 ;

“voting area” has the same meaning as in regulation 2 of the Referendum Regulations.

(2) In the case of a referendum, a reference to—

(a) a “candidate” shall be construed as a reference to a counting observer,

(b) a “election agent” shall be construed as a reference to a counting observer,

(c) a “polling agent” shall be construed as a reference to polling observer,

(d) a “returning officer” shall be construed as a reference to a counting officer.

(3) Reference to a rule by number alone is a reference to the rule so numbered in this Schedule.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C6 Sch. 5 para. 2 modified (3.8.2012) by The Neighbourhood Planning (Referendums) Regulations 2012 (S.I. 2012/2031), regs. 1, 8, 12, 13, Sch. 4 para. 27(a)(b)

Marginal Citations

M48 S.I. 2004/294. Relevant amendments have been made to those regulations by S.I. 2006/3278.

M49 1985 c. 50. The definition was amended by section 3 of the European Communities (Amendment) Act 1986 (c. 58).

M50 S.I. 2007/1024.

M51 S.I. 2004/293.

M52 S.I. 2000/2852.

M53 S.I. 2007/2089.

M54 2000 c.22. Sections 44 and 45 were amended by the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 (c. 41).

PART 2 U.K. Provisions As To Time

Timetable U.K.

3.  The proceedings at the election must be conducted in accordance with the following timetable:

Timetable

Proceedings	Time
Publication of notice of election	Not later than the thirtieth day before the day of election.
Delivery of nomination papers	Not later than [F68 4 in the afternoon] on the twenty–fourth day before the day of election.
[F69 Delivery of notices of withdrawals of candidature	Not later than 4 in the afternoon on the twenty-fourth day before the day of election]
Publication of statement as to persons nominated	Not later than [F70 4 in the afternoon] on the twenty–second day before the day of election.
F71 . . .	F71 . . .
Notice of poll	Not later than the sixth day before the day of election.
Polling	Between the hours of 7 in the morning and 10 at night on the day of election.

Textual Amendments

F68 Words in Sch. 5 rule 3 substituted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(8)(a)

F69 Words in Sch. 5 rule 3 inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(8)(b)

F70 Words in Sch. 5 rule 3 substituted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(8)(c)

F71 Words in Sch. 5 rule 3 omitted (8.2.2016) by virtue of The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(8)(d)

Computation of time U.K.

4.—(1) In computing any period of time for the purposes of the Timetable—

(a) a Saturday or Sunday,

(b) Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Good Friday or a bank holiday, or

(c) a day appointed for public thanksgiving or mourning,

must be disregarded, and any such day must not be treated as a day for the purpose of any proceedings up to the completion of the poll nor may the CRO be obliged to proceed with the counting of the votes on such a day.

(2) In this rule, “bank holiday” means a day which is a bank holiday under the Banking and Financial Dealings Act 1971 M55 in England and Wales.

Marginal Citations

M55 1971 c. 80

PART 3 U.K. Stages Common To Contested And Uncontested Elections

Notice of election U.K.

5.—(1) The CRO must publish notice of the election stating—

(a) the place and times at which nomination papers are to be delivered, and

(b) the date of the poll in the event of a contest,

and the notice must state that forms of nomination papers may be obtained at that place and those times.

(2) The notice of election must state the arrangements (if any) which apply for the payment of the deposit required by rule 8 by means of the electronic transfer of funds.

(3) The notice of election must state the date by which—

(a) applications to vote by post or by proxy, and

(b) other applications and notices about postal or proxy voting,

must reach the registration officer for local government electors in order that they may be effective for the election.

Nomination of candidates U.K.

6.—(1) Each candidate must be nominated by a separate nomination paper, which must be—

(a) in the appropriate form, and

(b) delivered to the place fixed for the purpose by the CRO, which must be at the offices of a local authority within the Assembly constituency, before the last time for the delivery of nomination papers.

(2) The nomination paper must state the candidate's—

(a) full names,

(b) home address, in full, and

(c) if desired, description,

and the surname must be placed first in the list of names.

(3) If a candidate commonly uses—

(a) a surname which is different from any other surname he has, or

(b) a forename which is different from any other forename he has,

the nomination paper may state the commonly used surname or forename, or both surname and forename, in addition to the other name.

(4) The description (if any) can only be—

(a) one authorised as mentioned in paragraph (5) or (7), or

(b) the word “Independent”.

(5) A nomination paper may not include a description of a candidate that is likely to lead electors to associate the candidate with a registered party unless—

(a) the party is a qualifying party in relation to the electoral area, and

(b) the description is authorised by a certificate—

(i) issued by or on behalf of the registered nominating officer of the party, and

(ii) received by the CRO before the last time for the delivery of nomination papers set out in the timetable in rule 3.

(6) In paragraph (5) an authorised description may be either—

(a) the name of the party registered under section 28 of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 M56 , or

(b) a description of the party registered under section 28A M57 of that Act.

(7) A nomination paper may not include a description of a candidate which is likely to lead electors to associate the candidate with two or more registered political parties unless the parties are each qualifying parties in relation to the electoral area and the description is a registered description authorised by a certificate—

(a) issued by or on behalf of the registered nominating officer of each of the parties, and

(b) received by the CRO before the last time for the delivery of nomination papers set out in the timetable in rule 3.

(8) For the purposes of paragraph (7), a description is a registered description if it is a description registered for use by the parties under section 28B of the 2000 Act M58 .

(9) A person will be guilty of a corrupt practice if he fraudulently purports to be authorised to issue a certificate under paragraph (5) or (7) on behalf of a registered party's nominating officer.

(10) For the purposes of the application of these rules in relation to an election—

(a) “registered party” means a party which was registered under Part 2 of the 2000 Act on the day (“the relevant day”) which is two days before the last day for the delivery of nomination papers at that election,

(b) a registered party is a qualifying party in relation to an electoral area if on the relevant day the party was registered in respect of England in the Great Britain register maintained under that Part of that Act.

(11) For the purposes of paragraph (10)(a), any day falling within rule 4(1) must be disregarded.

Marginal Citations

M56 Section 28 of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 (c.41) was amended by S.I. 2004/366 and by section 48 of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22).

M57 Section 28A of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 (c.41) was inserted by section 49(1) of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22).

M58 Section 28B of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 (c.41) was inserted by section 49(1) of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22).

Consent to nomination U.K.

7.  A person will not be validly nominated unless his consent to nomination—

(a) is given in writing in the appropriate form, or a form to like effect, on or within one month before the last day for the delivery of nomination papers,

(b) is attested by one witness whose name and address must be given, and

(c) is delivered at the place and within the time for delivery of nomination papers.

(2) A candidate's consent given under this rule must—

(a) state the day, month and year of his birth, and

(b) contain a statement that to the best of the candidate's knowledge and belief he is not disqualified from being elected by reason of—

(i) any disqualification set out in section 21 (disqualification from being the Mayor or an Assembly member) of the 1999 Act, F72 ...

[F73 (ii) a decision made under section 78A of the Local Government Act 2000 (decisions of First-tier tribunal), or

(iii) an order made under section 34(4) of the Localism Act 2011 (offences).]

Textual Amendments

F72 Word in Sch. 5 rule 7(2)(b) omitted (8.2.2016) by virtue of The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 7(4)(a)

F73 Sch. 5 rule 7(2)(b)(ii)(iii) substituted for Sch. 5 rule 7(2)(b)(ii) (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 7(4)(b)

Deposits U.K.

8.—(1) A person will not be validly nominated unless the sum of £1,000 is deposited by him or on his behalf with the CRO at the place and within the time for delivery of nomination papers.

(2) The deposit may be made either—

(a) by the deposit of any legal tender, or

(b) by means of a banker's draft, or

(c) with the CRO's consent, in any other manner including by means of a debit or credit card or the electronic transfer of funds,

but the CRO may refuse to accept a deposit sought to be made by means of a banker's draft if he does not know that the drawer carries on business as a banker in the United Kingdom.

(3) Where the deposit is made on behalf of the candidate, the person making the deposit must at the time he makes it give his name and address to the CRO, unless they have previously been given to him under section 67 (appointment of election agent) of the 1983 Act.

Decisions as to validity of nomination papers U.K.

9.—(1) Where a nomination paper and the candidate's consent to it are delivered, and the deposit is made, in accordance with this Part of these Rules, the candidate must be deemed to stand nominated unless and until—

(a) the CRO decides that the nomination paper is invalid, or

(b) proof is given to the CRO's satisfaction of the candidate's death, or

(c) the candidate withdraws.

(2) The CRO is entitled to hold a nomination paper invalid only on the grounds—

(a) that the particulars of the candidate on the nomination paper are not as required by law; or

(b) that the paper breaks rule 6(5) or (7).

(3) Subject to paragraph (4), the CRO must, as soon as practicable after each nomination paper has been delivered, examine it and decide whether the candidate has been validly nominated.

(4) If in the CRO's opinion a nomination paper breaks rule 6(5) or (7), he must give a decision to that effect—

(a) as soon as practicable after the delivery of the nomination paper, and

(b) in any event, before the end of the period of 24 hours starting with the end of the period for the delivery of nomination papers set out in the timetable in rule 3.

(5) Where the CRO decides that a nomination paper is invalid, he must endorse and sign on the paper the fact and the reasons for his decision.

(6) The CRO must, as soon as practicable after making a decision under paragraph (3) or (4) that a nomination paper is valid or invalid, send notice of that decision to the candidate at his home address as given in his nomination paper.

(7) The CRO's decision that a nomination paper is valid is final and must not be questioned in any proceeding whatsoever.

(8) Subject to paragraph (7), nothing in this rule prevents the validity of a nomination being questioned on an election petition.

Publication of statement of persons nominated U.K.

10.—(1) The CRO must prepare and [F74 (subject to paragraph (11))] publish a statement showing the persons who have been and stand nominated and any other persons who have been nominated together with the reason why they no longer stand nominated.

(2) The statement must show the names, addresses and descriptions of the persons nominated as given in their nomination papers.

(3) If a person's nomination paper gives a commonly used surname or forename, or both surname and forename, in addition to another name, the statement must show the person's commonly used surname or forename, or both surname and forename (as the case may be) instead of any other name.

(4) Paragraph (3) does not apply if the CRO thinks—

(a) that the use of the person's commonly used name may be likely to mislead or confuse electors, or

(b) that the commonly used name is obscene or offensive.

(5) If paragraph (4) applies, the CRO must give notice in writing to the candidate of his reasons for refusing to allow the use of a commonly used name.

(6) The statement must show the persons standing nominated arranged alphabetically in the order of their surnames, and if there are two or more of them with the same surname, of their other names.

(7) In the case of a person nominated by more than one nomination paper, the CRO must take the particulars required by the foregoing provisions of this rule from such one of the papers as the candidate (or the CRO in default of the candidate) may select.

[F75 (8) Paragraphs (9) to (11) apply at an ordinary election.

(9) As soon as possible after all decisions under rule 9 which are required to be made have been made, the CRO must arrange for a copy of the statement that the CRO has prepared and proposes to publish to be delivered to the GLRO.

(10) If, after having delivered the statement mentioned in paragraph (9) to the GLRO, the CRO receives notification from the GLRO under rule 13(4) that a candidate is deemed to have withdrawn his or her candidature, the CRO must amend that statement accordingly.

(11) The CRO may not publish the statement under paragraph (1) until—

(a) the CRO has made any amendments required under paragraph (10), or

(b) where no notification under rule 13(4) is received from the GLRO, the time by which the GLRO must give such notification has passed.]

Textual Amendments

F74 Words in Sch. 5 rule 10(1) inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(9)(a)

F75 Sch. 5 rule 10(8)-(11) substituted for Sch. 5 rule 10(8) (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(9)(b)

Correction of minor errors U.K.

11.—(1) A CRO may, if he thinks fit, at any time before the publication under rule 10 of the statement of persons nominated, correct minor errors in a nomination paper.

(2) Errors which may be corrected include—

(a) errors as to a person's electoral number,

(b) obvious errors of spelling in relation to the details of a candidate.

(3) Anything done by a CRO in pursuance of this rule may not be questioned in any proceedings other than proceedings on an election petition.

(4) A CRO must have regard to any guidance issued by the Electoral Commission for the purposes of this rule.

Inspection of nomination papers and consent to nomination U.K.

12.—(1) During ordinary office hours, in the period starting 24 hours after the latest time for the delivery of nomination papers and before the date of the poll, any person may inspect and take copies of, or extracts from, nomination papers and consents to nomination.

(2) Inspection under paragraph (1) may not take place on a day that is specified in rule 4(1).

Nomination in more than one Assembly constituency U.K.

[F76 13.— (1) This rule applies at an ordinary election.

(2) A candidate who is validly nominated in more than one Assembly constituency must withdraw his or her candidature, in accordance with rule 14, in all but one of those constituencies.

(3) Where a candidate does not withdraw his or her candidature as mentioned in paragraph (2), he or she is deemed, after the last time for delivery of notices of withdrawals, to have withdrawn his or her candidature from all the Assembly constituencies in which he or she is, but for this rule, validly nominated.

(4) Where, having reviewed the proposed statements of persons nominated delivered under rule 10(9), it appears to the GLRO that a candidate (“C”) appears (but for this rule) to have been validly nominated in more than one Assembly constituency (“a relevant constituency”), the GLRO must at least one hour before the last time for publication of the statement as to persons nominated as set out in the timetable in rule 3, inform the CRO for each relevant constituency that C’s candidature is deemed to have been withdrawn in that constituency.

(5) A CRO must, as soon as practicable, after receiving the notification mentioned in paragraph (4), notify C that C’s candidature is deemed to have been withdrawn in that constituency.]

Textual Amendments

F76 Sch. 5 rule 13 substituted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(10)

Withdrawal of candidates U.K.

14.—(1) A candidate may withdraw his candidature by notice of withdrawal—

(a) signed by him and attested by one witness, whose name and address must be given, and

(b) delivered to the CRO at the place for delivery of nomination papers,

by the end of the period for the delivery of notices of withdrawals of candidature in the timetable in rule 3.

(2) Where a candidate is outside the United Kingdom, a notice of withdrawal signed by his election agent and accompanied by a written declaration also so signed of the candidate's absence from the United Kingdom will be of the same effect as a notice of withdrawal signed by the candidate; but where the candidate stands nominated by more than one nomination paper a notice of withdrawal under this paragraph will be effective if, and only if, it is accompanied, in addition to that declaration, by a written statement signed by the candidate that the person giving the notice is authorised to do so on the candidate's behalf during his absence from the United Kingdom.

Method of election U.K.

15.—(1) If, after any withdrawals in accordance with [F77 these Rules], the number of persons remaining validly nominated for the Assembly constituency exceeds one, a poll must be taken in accordance with Part 4 of these Rules.

(2) If, after any withdrawals in accordance with [F77 these Rules], only one person remains validly nominated for the Assembly constituency, that person must be declared to be elected in accordance with Part 5.

Textual Amendments

F77 Words in Sch. 5 rule 15 substituted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(11)

PART 4 U.K. Contested Elections

Poll to be taken by ballot U.K.

16.  The votes at the poll must be given by ballot, the result must be ascertained by counting the votes given to each candidate, and the candidate to whom more votes have been given than to the other candidates must be declared to have been elected.

The ballot papers U.K.

17.—(1) The ballot of every voter must consist of a ballot paper which must be in the appropriate form.

(2) Each person remaining validly nominated for the election, after any withdrawals, and no other, is entitled to have their name inserted in the ballot paper.

(3) Every ballot paper—

(a) must [F78 , so far as practicable for the purposes of electronic counting,] be printed in accordance with the directions set out in the Forms Schedule,

(b) must contain the names and other particulars of the candidates as shown in the statement of persons nominated,

(c) must have a number and other unique identifying mark printed on the back, and

(d) may, in the case of ballot papers for use at polling stations, be marked with the words “do not fold”.

(4) If a candidate who is the subject of a party's authorisation under rule 6(5) so requests, the ballot paper must contain, against the candidate's particulars, the party's registered emblem (or, as the case may be, one of the party's registered emblems).

[F79 (4A) If a candidate who is the subject of an authorisation by two or more parties under rule 6(7) so requests, the ballot paper must contain, against the candidate’s particulars, the registered emblem (or, as the case may be, one of the registered emblems) of one of those parties.]

(5) The candidate's request under paragraph (4) [F80 or paragraph (4A)] must—

(a) be made in writing to the CRO, and

(b) be received by him within the period for delivery of nomination papers set out in the timetable in rule 3.

(6) The order of the names in the ballot paper must be the same as in the statement of persons nominated.

(7) At an ordinary election, the GLRO must supply the ballot papers for use at the election to the CRO by such date as may be agreed between them.

(8) The ballot papers supplied under paragraph (7) must be of a different colour from the ballot papers used at any other relevant election or referendum.

Textual Amendments

F78 Words in Sch. 5 rule 17(3)(a) inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 8(5)

F79 Sch. 5 rule 17(4A) inserted (1.3.2012) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2012 (S.I. 2012/198), rules 1(1), 3(2)(a)

F80 Words in Sch. 5 rule 17(5) inserted (1.3.2012) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2012 (S.I. 2012/198), rules 1(1), 3(2)(b)

The corresponding number list U.K.

18.—(1) The CRO must prepare a list containing the numbers and other unique identifying marks of all of the ballot papers to be issued by him in pursuance of rule 23(1) or provided by him in pursuance of rule 28(1).

(2) The list must be in the appropriate form or a form to like effect.

(3) At an ordinary election, the same list may be used for each Authority election with which the election is combined.

The official mark U.K.

19.—(1) Every ballot paper must contain an appropriate security marking (the official mark).

(2) The official mark must be kept secret, and an interval of not less than five years must intervene between the use of the same official mark at any Authority election.

(3) The CRO, or at an ordinary election the GLRO, may use a different official mark for different purposes at the same election.

Prohibition of disclosure of vote U.K.

20.  No person who has voted at the election may, in any legal proceeding to question the election, be required to state for whom he has voted.

Use of schools and public rooms U.K.

21.—(1) The CRO may use, free of charge, for the purpose of taking the poll or counting the votes—

(a) a room in a school maintained or assisted by a [F81 local authority (as defined in the Education Act 1996)] or a school in respect of which grants are made out of moneys provided by Parliament to the person or body of persons responsible for the management of the school,

(b) a room the expense of maintaining which is met by any local authority.

(2) The CRO must make good any damage done to, and defray any expense incurred by the persons having control over, any such room as mentioned in paragraph (1) by reason of its being used for the purpose of taking the poll or counting the votes.

Textual Amendments

F81 Words in Sch. 5 rule 21(1)(a) substituted (5.5.2010) by The Local Education Authorities and Children’s Services Authorities (Integration of Functions) (Local and Subordinate Legislation) Order 2010 (S.I. 2010/1172), art. 1(1), Sch. 3 para. 77(2)

Notice of poll U.K.

22.—(1) The CRO must, in accordance with the timetable in rule 3, publish notice of the poll stating—

(a) the day and hours fixed for the poll, and

(b) the particulars of each candidate remaining validly nominated (the names and other particulars of the candidates, and the order of the candidates' names being the same as in the statement of persons nominated).

(2) The CRO must, not later than the time of the publication of the notice of the poll, also give public notice of—

(a) the situation of each polling station, and

(b) the description of voters entitled to vote there,

and he must as soon as practicable after giving such a notice give a copy of it to each of the election agents.

(3) The notice published under paragraph (2) shall—

(a) state that the poll at the election is to be taken together with the poll at a relevant election or referendum as the case may be,

(b) specify the parliamentary constituency, European Parliamentary local counting area, relevant London borough, or voting area; and in the case of an election to fill a casual vacancy, the electoral area for which the relevant election or referendum is held, and

(c) where the polls are to be taken together in part of the Borough only, specify that part.

(4) At an ordinary election, the notice of poll must include the heading “GREATER LONDON AUTHORITY ELECTION”.

Postal ballot papers U.K.

23.—(1) The CRO must, in accordance with regulations made under the 1983 Act M59 , issue to those entitled to vote by post a ballot paper and a postal voting statement, together with such envelopes for their return as may be prescribed in such regulations.

(2) The postal voting statement must be in the appropriate form or a form to like effect.

(3) The postal voting statement must include provision for the form to be signed and for stating the date of birth of the elector or proxy (as the case may be).

(4) The CRO must also issue to those entitled to vote by post such information as he thinks appropriate about how to obtain—

(a) translations into languages other than English of any directions to or guidance for voters sent with the ballot paper,

(b) a translation into Braille of such directions or guidance,

(c) graphical representations of such directions or guidance,

(d) the directions or guidance in any other form (including any audible form).

(5) In the case of a ballot paper issued to a person at an address in the United Kingdom, the CRO must ensure that the return of the ballot paper and postal voting statement is free of charge to the voter.

(6) Where the proceedings on the issue and receipt of postal ballot papers at the election are taken together with a relevant election or referendum the appropriate form of postal voting statement under paragraph (2) may be the joint postal voting statement which must be in the appropriate form or form to like effect.

Marginal Citations

M59 See the Representation of the People (England and Wales) Regulations 2001 S.I. 2001/341 as amended by S.I. 2002/1871, 2006/752 and S.I. 2006/2910.

Provision of polling stations U.K.

24.—(1) The CRO must provide a sufficient number of polling stations and, subject to the following provisions of this rule, must allot the electors to the polling stations in such manner as he thinks most convenient.

(2) One or more polling stations may be provided in the same room.

(3) The polling station allotted to electors from any parliamentary polling district wholly or partly within the Assembly constituency must, in the absence of special circumstances, be in the parliamentary polling place for that district, unless that place is outside the Assembly constituency.

(4) The CRO must provide each polling station with such number of compartments as may be necessary in which the voters can mark their votes screened from observation.

Appointment of presiding officers and clerks U.K.

25.—(1) The CRO must appoint and pay a presiding officer to attend at each polling station and such clerks and technical assistants as may be necessary for the purposes of the election, but he must not appoint any person who has been employed by or on behalf of a candidate in or about the election.

(2) The CRO may, if he thinks fit, preside at a polling station and the provisions of this Part relating to a presiding officer apply to a CRO so presiding with the necessary modifications as to things to be done by the CRO to the presiding officer or by the presiding officer to the CRO.

(3) A presiding officer may do, by the clerks appointed to assist him, any act (including the asking of questions) which he is required or authorised by this Part to do at a polling station except order the arrest, exclusion or removal of any person from the polling station.

Issue of official poll cards U.K.

26.—(1) The CRO must as soon as practicable after the publication of the notice of election, send to electors and their proxies an official poll card.

(2) An elector's official poll card must be sent or delivered to his qualifying address, and a proxy's to his address as shown in the list of proxies.

(3) The official poll card must be in the appropriate form, or a form to like effect, and must set out–

(a) the name of the Assembly constituency for which a constituency member is to be elected,

(b) the elector's name, qualifying address and number on the register,

(c) the date and hours of the poll and the situation of the elector's polling station, and

(d) such other information as the CRO thinks appropriate,

and different information may be provided in pursuance of sub-paragraph (d) to different electors or descriptions of elector.

(4) In the case of an elector with an anonymous entry, instead of containing the matter mentioned in paragraph (3)(b), the polling card must contain such matter as is specified in the appropriate form.

(5) At an ordinary election, the CRO must issue a combined poll card in the appropriate form.

(6) If the CRO and the returning officer for each relevant election or referendum agree, the poll card issued under this rule may be combined with the official poll card for the relevant election or referendum, with necessary adaptations.

(7) In this rule “elector” means—

(a) an elector with an entry on the register to be used at the election on the last day for the publication of the notice of the election, and

(b) includes a person then shown in the register as below voting age if (but only if) it appears from the register that he will be of voting age on the day fixed for the poll.

Information for voters U.K.

27.—(1) At an ordinary election, the GLRO may, in addition to a statement by him in an election booklet, include in the booklet information for voters that has been agreed by him with the Electoral Commission.

(2) The information for voters given in the election booklet may include information about—

(a) the office of the Mayor and the London Assembly,

(b) the system of voting at each Authority election,

(c) how to vote in a manner that will ensure a vote is regarded as validly cast, and

subject to paragraph (3), may include any other information given in exercise of the GLRO's duty under section 69 (encouraging electoral participation) of the 2006 Act.

(3) The information for voters must not contain—

(a) any advertising material,

(b) any material referring to a candidate or a registered party, other than by reproduction of a ballot paper which refers equally to all candidates and parties at the ordinary election,

(c) any material referring to the holder, at any time, of the office of Mayor or Assembly member, other than under paragraph (b) as a candidate at the ordinary election.

(4) Information published in an election booklet under this rule must be printed on not more than two sides of A5 paper.

Equipment of polling stations U.K.

28.—(1) The CRO must provide each presiding officer with—

(a) such ballot papers as may be necessary, and

(b) such ballot boxes as may be necessary having taken account of any direction made by the GLRO in accordance with paragraph (9).

(2) Every ballot box must be so constructed that the ballot papers can be put in it, but cannot be withdrawn from it, without the box being unlocked or, where the box has no lock, the seal being broken.

(3) The CRO must provide each polling station with—

(a) materials to enable voters to mark the ballot papers,

(b) copies of the register of electors for the Assembly constituency or such part of it as contains the entries relating to the electors allotted to the station,

(c) the parts of any special lists prepared for the election corresponding to the register of electors for the Assembly constituency or the part of it provided under sub-paragraph (b),

(d) a list consisting of that part of the list prepared under rule 18 which contains the numbers (but not the other unique identifying marks) corresponding to those on the ballot papers provided to the presiding officer of the polling station.

(4) The reference in paragraph (3)(b) to the copies of the register of electors includes a reference to copies of any notices issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act M60 in respect of alterations to the register.

(5) The CRO must also provide each polling station with a device for enabling voters who are blind or partially sighted to vote without any need for assistance from the presiding officer or any companion within the meaning of rule 40.

(6) The device referred to in paragraph (5) above must—

(a) allow a ballot paper to be inserted into and removed from or attached to and detached from the device, easily and without damage to the paper,

(b) keep the ballot paper firmly in place during use,

(c) provide suitable means for the voter to—

(i) identify the spaces on the ballot paper on which he may mark his vote,

(ii) identify the candidate to whom each such space refers, and

(iii) mark his vote on the space he has chosen.

(7) The enlarged sample copies of the ballot paper that the CRO is required to provide, or cause to be displayed at every polling station (in accordance with section 199B(5) and (7) of the 1983 Act) must be printed on paper of the same colour as the ballot paper at the election.

(8) The CRO must also provide each polling station with notices for the guidance of voters, which must be exhibited—

(a) outside the polling station,

(b) inside the polling station—

(i) in the communal areas, and

(ii) in every voting compartment.

(9) If the GLRO thinks fit he may, not later than the date of the notice of election, direct the CRO that joint ballot boxes must be used for the ballot papers at the election and any or all relevant elections or referendums with which the election is taken.

(10) Where separate ballot boxes are to be used for the election and every relevant election or referendum, each ballot box shall be clearly marked with—

(a) the election or referendum to which it relates, as shown on the ballot papers for that election or referendum, and

(b) the words “Place the [specify colour of ballot papers in question] ballot paper here”.

(11) Where the CRO does not discharge the functions specified in regulation 5 of the Combination of Polls Regulations, references in this rule to the CRO should be read as references to the returning officer who does discharge those functions.

Marginal Citations

M60 Section 13B of the 1983 Act was inserted by paragraph 3 of Schedule 2 to the Representation of the People Act 2000 (c.2) and amended by section 11(3) of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22). Subsections (3B) and (3D) of section 13B were inserted by section 11(4) of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22).

Notices for the guidance of voters U.K.

29.—(1) The CRO must prepare the notices to be exhibited under rule 28(8).

(2) The CRO may prepare versions of the notices in such other form as he thinks appropriate, in accordance with section 199B (translations etc of certain documents) of the 1983 Act.

(3) Notices for the guidance of voters exhibited under rule 28(8) or paragraph (2) must be in the appropriate form, but may include such alternative information relating to Authority elections as—

(a) meets with the requirements of the Notices Schedule, and

(b) the CRO may decide.

(4) Notices provided under paragraph (2) may, if the CRO agrees, be exhibited at any polling station—

(a) outside the polling station,

(b) inside the polling station—

(i) in the communal areas,

(ii) in every voting compartment.

(5) At an ordinary election, the GLRO must prepare the notices and versions of notices to be exhibited under rule 28(8) and supply them to the CRO, and for paragraph (3)(b) of this rule there is substituted—

“(b) the GLRO may decide.”

(6) Where the CRO does not discharge the functions specified in regulation 5 of the Combination of Polls Regulations, then references to the CRO in this rule must be read as references to the returning officer who does discharge those functions.

Appointment of polling and counting agents U.K.

30.—(1) Before the commencement of the poll, each candidate may appoint—

(a) polling agents to attend at polling stations for the purpose of detecting personation, and

(b) counting agents to attend at the counting of votes.

(2) The same person may be appointed as a polling agent or counting agent by more than one candidate.

(3) For the count, one (but no more than one) counting agent of each candidate may be authorised by the terms of his appointment to require a re-count at that count.

(4) Not more than four polling agents, or such greater number as the CRO may by notice allow, may be permitted to attend at any particular polling station.

(5) If the number of such agents appointed to attend at a particular polling station exceeds that number, the CRO must determine by lot which agents are permitted to attend, and only the agents on whom the lot falls will be deemed to have been duly appointed.

(6) The CRO may limit the number of counting agents, but in doing so must ensure that–

(a) the number is the same in the case of each candidate, and

(b) the number allowed to a candidate must not (except in special circumstances) be less than the number obtained by dividing the number of clerks employed on the counting by the number of candidates.

(7) For the purposes of the calculations required by paragraph (6), a counting agent who has been appointed by more than one candidate is a separate agent for each of the candidates by whom he has been appointed.

(8) Notice in writing of the appointment of polling and counting agents, stating the names and addresses of the persons appointed, must be given by the candidate to the CRO and must be so given not later than the fifth day (computed in accordance with rule 4) before the day of the poll.

(9) If an agent dies, or becomes incapable of acting, the candidate may appoint another agent in his place, and must forthwith give to the CRO notice in writing of the name and address of the agent appointed.

(10) Any appointment authorised by this rule may be made and the notice of appointment given to the CRO by the candidate's election agent, instead of by the candidate.

(11) In the following provisions of this Part references to polling agents and counting agents must be taken as references to agents—

(a) whose appointments have been duly made and notified, and

(b) where the number of agents is restricted, who are within the permitted numbers.

(12) Any notice required to be given to a counting agent by the CRO may be delivered at, or sent by post to, the address stated in the notice of appointment.

(13) A candidate may himself do any act or thing which any polling or counting agent of his, if appointed, would have been authorised to do, or may assist his agent in doing any such act or thing.

(14) A candidate's election agent may do or assist in doing anything which a polling or counting agent of his is authorised to do; and anything required or authorised by these Rules to be done in the presence of the polling or counting agent may be done in the presence of a candidate's election agent instead of his polling agent or counting agent.

(15) Where by these Rules any act or thing is required or authorised to be done in the presence of the polling or counting agents, the non-attendance of any agent or agents at the time and place appointed for the purpose will not, if the act or thing is otherwise duly done, invalidate the act or thing done.

(16) Where the CRO does not discharge the functions specified in regulation 5 of the Combination of Polls Regulations, then notices of the appointment of polling agents and counting agents which are required by this rule to be given to the CRO shall be given to the returning officer who discharges those functions.

Notification of requirement of secrecy U.K.

31.— [F82 (1)] The CRO must make such arrangements as he thinks fit to ensure that—

(a) every person attending a polling station (otherwise than for the purpose of voting or assisting a voter with disabilities to vote or as a constable on duty there) has been given a copy of the provisions of subsections (1), (3) and (6) of section 66 (requirement of secrecy) of the 1983 Act M61 , and

(b) every person attending at the counting of the votes (other than any constable on duty at the counting) has been given a copy of the provisions of subsections (2) and (6) of that section.

[F83 (2) In paragraph (1) a reference to a constable includes a person designated as a community support officer under section 38 of the 2002 Act (police powers for employees).]

Textual Amendments

F82 Sch. 5 rule 31 renumbered as Sch. 5 rule 31(1) (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 5(5)(a)

F83 Sch. 5 rule 31(2) inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 5(5)(a)

Marginal Citations

M61 1983 c. 2; Section 66 of that Act was amended by the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c. 22).

Return of postal ballot papers U.K.

32.—(1) Where—

(a) a postal vote has been returned in respect of a person who is entered on the postal voters list, or

(b) a proxy postal vote has been returned in respect of a proxy who is entered on the proxy postal voters list,

the CRO must mark the list in the manner prescribed by regulations made under the 1983 Act M62 .

(2) Rule 49(5) does not apply for the purpose of determining whether, for the purposes of this rule, a postal vote or a proxy postal vote is returned.

Marginal Citations

M62 1983 c. 2; Regulation 84A of the Representation of the People (England and Wales) Regulations 2001 S.I. 2001/341 as amended by S.I. 2006/2910 provides the circumstances in which a postal vote should be treated as returned for this purpose.

Admission to polling station U.K.

33.—(1) The presiding officer must exclude all persons from the polling station except—

(a) voters,

(b) persons under the age of 18 who accompany voters to the polling station,

(c) the candidates and their election agents,

(d) the polling agents appointed to attend at the polling station,

(e) the clerks appointed to attend at the polling station,

(f) persons who are entitled to attend by virtue of any of sections 6A to 6D of the 2000 Act,

(g) the constables on duty,

(h) the companions of voters with disabilities, and

(i) persons entitled to be admitted to the polling station at a relevant election or referendum.

(2) The presiding officer must regulate the total number of voters and persons under the age of 18 who accompany them to be admitted to the polling station at the same time.

(3) Not more than one polling agent may be admitted at the same time to a polling station on behalf of the same candidate.

(4) A constable or person employed by the CRO must not be admitted to vote in person elsewhere than at his own polling station allotted to him under these Rules, except on production and surrender of a certificate as to his employment which must be in the appropriate form and signed by an officer of the police of or above the rank of inspector or by the CRO, as the case may be.

(5) Any certificate surrendered under this rule must forthwith be cancelled.

[F84 (6) In this rule a reference to a constable includes a person designated as a community support officer under section 38 of the 2002 Act.]

Textual Amendments

F84 Sch. 5 rule 33(6) inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 5(5)(b)

Keeping of order in station U.K.

34.—(1) It is the presiding officer's duty to keep order at his polling station.

(2) If a person misconducts himself in a polling station, or fails to obey the presiding officer's lawful orders, he may immediately, by the presiding officer's order, be removed from the polling station—

(a) by a constable in or near that station, or

(b) by any other person authorised in writing by the CRO to remove him,

and the person so removed must not, without the presiding officer's permission, again enter the polling station during the day.

(3) Any person so removed may, if charged with the commission in the polling station of an offence, be dealt with as a person taken into custody by a constable for an offence without a warrant.

(4) The powers conferred by this rule must not be exercised so as to prevent a voter who is otherwise entitled to vote at a polling station from having an opportunity of voting at that station.

Sealing of ballot boxes U.K.

35.  Immediately before the commencement of the poll, the presiding officer must—

(a) show each ballot box, empty, to such persons, if any, as are present in the polling station, so that they may see that the boxes are empty,

(b) lock up such of the boxes as have locks,

(c) place his seal—

(i) on each lock, and

(ii) on each ballot box which has no lock,

in such a manner as to prevent its being opened without breaking the seal,

(d) place each box in his view for the receipt of ballot papers, and

(e) keep each box locked and sealed or, as the case may be, sealed.

Questions to be put to voters U.K.

36.—(1) At the time of the application (but not afterwards), the questions specified in the second column of the following table—

(a) may be put by the presiding officer to a person who is mentioned in the first column, and

(b) must be put if the letter “R” appears after the question and the candidate or his election or polling agent requires the question to be put.

Q. No.	Person applying for ballot paper	Question
1	A person applying as an elector	(a)—Are you the person registered in the register of local government electors for this election as follows (read the whole entry from the register)? [R] (b)—Have you already voted, here or elsewhere at this election for a constituency member otherwise than as proxy for some other person? [R]
2	A person applying as proxy	(a)—Are you the person whose name appears as A.B. in the list of proxies for this election as entitled to vote as proxy on behalf of C.D.? [R] (b)—Have you already voted here or elsewhere at this election for a constituency member as proxy on behalf of C.D.? [R] (c)—Are you the spouse, civil partner, parent, grandparent, brother, sister, child or grandchild of C.D.? [R]
3	A person applying as proxy for an elector with an anonymous entry (instead of the questions at entry 2)	(a)—Are you the person entitled to vote as proxy on behalf of the elector whose number on the register of electors is (read out the number)? [R] (b)—Have you already voted here or elsewhere as proxy on behalf of the elector whose number on the register of electors is (read out the number)? [R] (c)—Are you the spouse, civil partner, parent, grandparent, brother, sister, child or grandchild of the person whose number on the register of electors is (read out the number)? [R]
4	A person applying as proxy if the question at entry 2(c) or 3(c) is not answered in the affirmative	Have you already voted here or elsewhere at this election for a constituency member, on behalf of two persons of whom you are not the spouse, civil partner, parent, grandparent, brother, sister, child or grandchild? [R]
5	A person applying as an elector in relation to whom there is an entry in the postal voters list	(a)—Did you apply to vote by post? (b)—Why have you not voted by post?
6	A person applying as proxy who is named in the proxy postal voters list	(a)—Did you apply to vote by post as proxy? (b)—Why have you not voted by post as proxy?

(2) In the case of an elector in respect of whom a notice has been issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act, the references in the questions at entries 1(a) and 3(a), (b) and (c) to reading from the register must be taken as references to reading from the notice issued under those subsections.

(3) A ballot paper must not be delivered to any person required to answer any of the above questions unless he has answered each question satisfactorily.

(4) Except as authorised by this rule, no inquiry may be permitted as to the right of any person to vote.

Challenge of voter U.K.

37.  A person must not be prevented from voting because—

(a) a candidate or his election or polling agent declares that he has reasonable cause to believe that the person has committed an offence of personation, or

(b) the person is arrested on the grounds that he is suspected of committing or of being about to commit such an offence.

Voting procedure U.K.

38.—(1) A ballot paper must be delivered to a voter who applies for one, and immediately before delivery—

(a) the number and (unless paragraph (2) applies) name of the elector as stated in the copy of the register of electors must be called out,

(b) the number of the elector must be marked on the list mentioned in rule 28(3)(d) beside the number of the ballot paper to be issued to him,

(c) a mark must be placed in the register of electors against the number of the elector to note that a ballot paper has been applied for but without showing the particular ballot paper which may be delivered,

(d) in the case of a person applying for a ballot paper as proxy, a mark must also be placed against his name in the list of proxies.

(2) In the case of an elector who has an anonymous entry, he must show the presiding officer his official poll card and only his number may be called out in pursuance of paragraph (1)(a).

(3) In the case of an elector who is added to the register in pursuance of a notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act, paragraph (1) is modified as follows—

(a) in sub-paragraph (a), for “copy of the register of electors” substitute “copy of the notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act”,

(b) in sub-paragraph (c), for “in the register of electors” substitute “on the copy of the notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act”.

(4) The voter, on receiving the ballot paper, must forthwith proceed into one of the compartments in the polling station and there secretly mark his paper, and must then show to the presiding officer the back of the paper, so as to disclose the number and other unique identifying mark, and put the ballot paper into the ballot box in the presiding officer's presence, but so as to conceal his vote.

(5) The voter must vote without undue delay, and must leave the polling station as soon as he has put his ballot paper into the ballot box.

(6) A voter who has had a ballot paper delivered to him under paragraph (1), but has decided not to mark it, may return it to the presiding officer and where the voter does so, the presiding officer must—

(a) immediately cancel the ballot paper, and for the purposes of these rules treat it as a spoilt ballot paper,

(b) place a mark beside the number of that ballot paper on the corresponding number list to show that the ballot paper has been cancelled.

(7) The same copy of—

(a) the list of proxies,

(b) the register of electors,

(c) any notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act (marked in the case of an elector who is added to the register in pursuance of such a notice),

may be used for the election and each relevant election and referendum and one mark may be placed in the list, register or notice (as the case may be) to denote that a ballot paper has been delivered in respect of each election and referendum; except that, where a ballot paper has not been issued in respect of any election or referendum, a different mark must be placed in the list, register or notice so as to identify the election or referendum in respect of which a ballot paper was issued.

(8) At an ordinary election, the same copy of the list mentioned in rule 28(3)(d), may be used for each Authority election and one mark may be placed in the list, to denote that a ballot paper has been delivered in respect of each Authority election; except that, where a ballot paper has not been issued in respect of any Authority election, a different mark must be placed in the list, so as to identify the elections in respect of which a ballot paper was issued.

[F85 (9) A voter who at the close of the poll is in the polling station, or in a queue outside the polling station, for the purpose of voting must (despite the close of the poll) be entitled to apply for a ballot paper under paragraph (1); and these rules apply in relation to such a voter accordingly.]

Textual Amendments

F85 Sch. 5 rule 38(9) inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 9(4)(a)

Votes marked by presiding officer U.K.

39.—(1) The presiding officer, on the application of a voter—

(a) who is incapacitated by blindness or other disability from voting in the manner directed by these Rules, or

(b) who declares orally that he is unable to read,

must, in the presence of the polling agents, cause the voter's vote to be marked on a ballot paper in the manner directed by the voter, and the ballot paper to be placed in the ballot box.

(2) The name and number on the register of electors of every voter whose vote is marked in pursuance of this rule, and the reason why it is so marked, must be entered on a list (in these Rules called “the list of votes marked by the presiding officer”). In the case of a person voting as proxy for an elector, the number to be entered together with the voter's name must be the elector's number.

(3) In the case of a person in respect of whom a notice has been issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act M63 , paragraph (2) applies as if for “on the register of electors of every voter” there were substituted “relating to every voter in respect of whom a notice has been issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act”.

(4) The same list may be used for each relevant election or referendum, and where it is so used, an entry in that list must be taken to mean that the ballot papers were so marked in respect of each election or referendum, unless the list identifies the election or referendum at which the ballot paper was so marked.

Marginal Citations

M63 Section 13B of the 1983 Act was inserted by paragraph 3 of Schedule 2 to the Representation of the People Act 2000 (c.2) and amended by section 11(3) of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22). Subsections (3B) and (3D) of section 13B were inserted by section 11(4) of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22).

Voting by persons with disabilities U.K.

40.—(1) If a voter makes an application to the presiding officer to be allowed, on the ground of—

(a) blindness or other disability, or

(b) inability to read,

to vote with the assistance of another person by whom he is accompanied (in these Rules referred to as “the companion”), the presiding officer must require the voter to declare, orally or in writing, whether he is so incapacitated by his blindness or other disability, or by his inability to read, as to be unable to vote without assistance.

(2) If the presiding officer–

(a) is satisfied that the voter is so incapacitated, and

(b) is also satisfied by a written declaration made by the companion (in these Rules referred to as “the declaration made by the companion of a voter with disabilities”) that the companion—

(i) is a qualified person within the meaning of these Rules, and

(ii) has not previously assisted more than one voter with disabilities to vote at the election,

the presiding officer must grant the application, and then anything which is by these Rules required to be done to, or by that voter in connection with the giving of his vote may be done to, or with the assistance of, the companion.

(3) For the purpose of these Rules, a person is a voter with disabilities if he has made such a declaration as is mentioned in paragraph (1) above, and a person may be qualified to assist a voter with disabilities to vote if that person—

(a) is a person who is entitled to vote as an elector at the election, or

(b) is the father, mother, brother, sister, spouse, civil partner, son or daughter of the voter and has attained the age of 18 years.

(4) The name and number in the register of electors of every voter whose vote is given in accordance with this rule and the name and address of the companion must be entered on a list (in these Rules referred to as the “list of voters with disabilities assisted by companions”). In the case of a person voting as proxy for an elector, the number to be entered together with the voter's name must be the elector's number.

(5) In the case of a person in respect of whom a notice has been issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act, paragraph (4) applies as if for “in the register of electors of every voter” there were substituted “relating to every voter in respect of whom a notice has been issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act”.

(6) The declaration made by the companion—

(a) must be in the appropriate form, and

(b) must be made before the presiding officer at the time when the voter applies to vote with the assistance of a companion, and

(c) must forthwith be given to the presiding officer who must attest and retain it.

(7) No fee or other payment may be charged in respect of the declaration.

(8) The same list of voters with disabilities assisted by companions may be used for each relevant election or referendum, and where it is so used, an entry in that list must be taken to mean that the votes were so given in respect of each election and referendum, unless the list identifies the election or referendum for which the vote was so given.

Tendered ballot papers: circumstances where available U.K.

41.—(1) If a person, representing himself to be—

(a) a particular elector named in the register and not named in the absent voters list, or

(b) a particular person named in the list of proxies as proxy for an elector and not entitled to vote by post as proxy,

applies for a ballot paper after another person has voted in person either as the elector or his proxy, the applicant must, on satisfactorily answering the questions permitted by law to be asked at the poll, be entitled, subject to the following provisions of this rule and rule 42, to mark a ballot paper (in these Rules referred to as “a tendered ballot paper”) in the same manner as any other voter.

(2) Paragraph (4) applies if—

(a) a person applies for a ballot paper representing himself to be a particular elector named in the register,

(b) he is also named in the postal voters list, and

(c) he claims that he did not make an application to vote by post at the election.

(3) Paragraph (4) also applies if—

(a) a person applies for a ballot paper representing himself to be a particular person named as a proxy in the list of proxies,

(b) he is also named in the proxy postal voters list, and

(c) he claims that he did not make an application to vote by post as proxy.

(4) The person must, on satisfactorily answering the questions permitted by law to be asked at the poll, be entitled, subject to the following provisions of this rule and rule 42, to mark a ballot paper (in these Rules referred to as a “tendered ballot paper”) in the same manner as any other voter.

(5) Paragraph (6) applies if before the close of the poll but after the last time at which a person may apply for a replacement postal ballot paper, a person represents himself to be—

(a) a particular elector named in the register who is also named in the postal voters list, or

(b) a particular person named as a proxy in the list of proxies and who is also named in the proxy postal voters list,

and claims that he has lost or has not received his postal ballot paper.

(6) The person must, on satisfactorily answering the questions permitted by law to be asked at the poll, be entitled, subject to the provisions of this rule and rule 42, to mark a ballot paper (in these Rules referred to as a “tendered ballot paper”) in the same manner as any other voter.

Tendered ballot papers: general provisions U.K.

42.—(1) A tendered ballot paper must—

(a) be of a colour differing from the other ballot papers,

(b) instead of being put into the ballot box, be given to the presiding officer and endorsed by him with the name of the voter and his number on the register of electors, and set aside in a separate packet.

(2) The name of the voter and his number on the register of electors must be entered on a list (in these Rules referred to as the “tendered votes list”).

(3) In the case of a person voting as proxy for an elector, the number to be endorsed or entered together with the voter's name must be the number of that elector.

(4) In the case of an elector who has an anonymous entry, this rule and rule 41 apply subject to the following modifications—

(a) in paragraphs (1)(b) and (2) above, the references to the name of the voter must be ignored,

(b) otherwise, a reference to a person named on a register or list must be construed as a reference to a person whose number appears in the register or list (as the case may be).

(5) In the case of a person in respect of whom a notice has been issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act, this rule and rule 41 apply as if—

(a) in rule 41(1)(a), (2)(a) and (5)(a), for “named in the register” there were substituted “in respect of whom a notice under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act has been issued”,

(b) in paragraph (1)(b) of this rule for “his number in the register of electors” there were substituted “the number relating to him on a notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act”,

(c) in paragraph (2) of this rule, for “his number in the register of electors” there were substituted “the number relating to him on a notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act”.

(6) The same list may be used for each relevant election or referendum, and where it is so used, an entry in that list must be taken to mean that tendered ballot papers were marked in respect of each election or referendum, unless the list identifies the election or referendum at which a tendered ballot paper was marked.

Spoilt and replacement ballot papers U.K.

43.—(1) A voter who has inadvertently dealt with his ballot paper in such manner that it cannot be conveniently used as a ballot paper may, on delivering it to the presiding officer and proving to his satisfaction the fact of the inadvertence, obtain a replacement for the ballot paper so delivered (in these Rules referred to as “ a spoilt ballot paper”), and the spoilt ballot paper must be immediately cancelled.

(2) If a voter decides, after he has returned his ballot paper and it has been cancelled in accordance with rule 38(6), but before the close of the poll, that he wishes to vote in the election, he may obtain a replacement for the returned ballot paper.

(3) Before a replacement ballot paper is obtained, the presiding officer must mark the corresponding number list that was marked under rule 38(1) (the corresponding number list)—

(a) in the case of a ballot paper being replaced under paragraph (1) or (2), beside the number of the replacement ballot paper obtained to show—

(i) the number of the elector, and

(ii) the number of the ballot paper which is being replaced; and

(b) in the case of a ballot paper being replaced under paragraph (1), beside the number of the spoilt ballot paper to show that the ballot paper was replaced.

(4) Where the election is taken with a relevant election or referendum the voter must only receive a replacement for a spoilt or returned ballot paper.

(5) If the same corresponding number list is used for more than one Authority election in accordance with rule 38(8)—

(a) the marks made under paragraph (3) must identify the election for which a ballot paper has been replaced, and

(b) any ballot paper which the voter has not applied for or obtained as a replacement, but which bears the same ballot paper number as a ballot paper delivered under rule 38(1), or obtained under paragraph (1) or (2) of this rule—

(i) must not be delivered to the voter,

(ii) must be cancelled, and

(iii) for the purposes of these rules, must be treated as a spoilt ballot paper.

Correction of errors on day of poll U.K.

44.—(1) The presiding officer must keep a list of persons to whom ballot papers are delivered in consequence of an alteration to the register made by virtue of section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act which takes effect on the day of the poll.

(2) The same list may be used for each relevant election or referendum, and where it is so used, an entry in that list must be taken to mean that ballot papers were delivered in respect of each election or referendum, unless the list identifies the election or referendum at which a tendered ballot paper was marked.

Adjournment of poll in case of riot U.K.

45.—(1) Where the proceedings at any polling station are interrupted or obstructed by riot or open violence, the presiding officer must adjourn the proceedings till the following day and must forthwith inform the CRO.

(2) Where the poll is adjourned at any polling station—

(a) the hours of polling on the day to which it is adjourned must be the same as for the original day, and

(b) references in these Rules to the close of the poll must be construed accordingly.

(3) As soon as practicable after being informed of the adjournment of a poll, the CRO must inform the GLRO of that fact and of the cause of its adjournment.

(4) If the CRO does not discharge the functions specified in regulation 5 of the Combination of Polls Regulations, then references in this rule to the CRO must be taken as references to the returning officer who discharges those functions.

Procedure on close of poll U.K.

46.—(1) As soon as practicable after the close of the poll, the presiding officer must, in the presence of the polling agents appointed for the purposes of the election and each relevant election or referendum, make up into separate packets, sealed with his own seal and the seals of such polling agents as desire to affix their seals—

(a) each ballot box in use at the station, sealed so as to prevent the introduction of additional ballot papers and unopened, but with any key attached,

(b) the unused and spoilt ballot papers placed together,

(c) the tendered ballot papers,

(d) the marked copies of the register of electors (including any marked copy notices issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act) and of the list of proxies,

(e) the list prepared under rule 18, including the part completed in accordance with rule 38(1)(b) (together referred to in these Rules as “the completed corresponding number list”),

(f) the certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll,

(g) the tendered votes list, the list of voters with disabilities assisted by companions, the list of votes marked by the presiding officer, a statement of the number of voters whose votes are so marked by the presiding officer under the heads “disability” and “unable to read”, the list maintained under rule 44, and the declarations made by the companions of voters with disabilities,

and must deliver the packets or cause them to be delivered to the CRO to be taken charge of by him; but if the packets are not delivered by the presiding officer personally to the CRO, the arrangements for their delivery must be approved by the CRO.

(2) The contents of the packets referred to in paragraph (1)(b), (c) and (f) must not be combined with the contents of the packets made under the corresponding rule that applies at any other relevant election or referendum except for an Authority election.

(3) The marked copies of the register of electors and of the list of proxies must be in one packet but must not be in the same packet as the completed corresponding number list or the certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll.

(4) The packets must be accompanied by a statement (“the ballot paper account”) showing the number of ballot papers entrusted to the presiding officer, and accounting for them under the heads—

(a) ballot papers issued and not otherwise accounted for,

(b) unused ballot papers,

(c) spoilt ballot papers, and

(d) tendered ballot papers.

(5) At an ordinary election, the statement referred to in paragraph (4) may be combined with the statements produced in relation to any other Authority election, but not with those for a relevant election or referendum, and the combined statement must be arranged in such manner as the GLRO may direct.

(6) Where the CRO does not discharge the functions specified in regulation 5 of the Combination of Polls Regulations, references in paragraph (1) to the CRO must be taken as references to the returning officer who discharges those functions.

Attendance at verification and the counting of votes U.K.

47.—(1) Where the CRO discharges the functions specified in regulation 5 of the Combination of Polls Regulations, he must—

(a) make arrangements for —

(i) carrying out the functions in rule 49(1) (separating ballot papers and verifying ballot paper accounts) at the election in the presence of the counting agents appointed for the purposes of the election and each relevant election and referendum as soon as practicable after the close of the poll, and

(ii) for counting the votes in the presence of the counting agents appointed for the purposes of the election,

(b) give to the counting agents appointed for the purposes of the election and each relevant election and referendum, notice in writing of the time and place at which he will begin carrying out the functions in rule 49(1).

(2) Where the CRO does not discharge the functions specified in regulation 5 of the Combination of Polls Regulations he must make arrangements for counting the votes in the presence of the counting agents appointed for the purposes of the election as soon as practicable after the delivery of the ballot papers to him by the returning officer who does discharge those functions; and the CRO must give to the counting agents for the election notice in writing of the time and place at which he will begin to count the votes.

(3) No person other than a person entitled to be present at the counting of the votes at the election and at each relevant election or referendum may be present at the proceedings under rule 49(1) (separating ballot papers and verifying ballot paper accounts) unless permitted by the CRO to attend.

(4) No person other than—

(a) the CRO and his clerks and technical assistants,

(b) the GLRO,

(c) the candidates and one other person chosen by each of them,

(d) the election agents,

(e) the counting agents,

(f) persons who are entitled to attend by virtue of any of sections 6A to 6D of the 2000 Act,

may be present at the counting of the votes in accordance with rule 49(2) to (15), unless permitted by the CRO to attend

(5) A person not entitled to attend at the separation and verification or the counting of the votes must not be permitted to do so by the CRO unless the CRO—

(a) is satisfied that the efficient separation and verification of the ballot paper accounts or, as the case may be, the efficient counting of the votes will not be impeded, and

(b) has either consulted the candidates or thought it impracticable to do so.

(6) The CRO must give the counting agents all such reasonable facilities for overseeing the proceedings, and all such information with respect to them, as he can give them consistently with the orderly conduct of the proceedings and the discharge of his duties in connection with them.

Use of the electronic counting system U.K.

48.—(1) The GLRO may provide the CRO with an electronic counting system consisting of computer hardware, software and other equipment or services, for the purpose of counting the number of ballot papers, to verify the ballot paper accounts and to count the votes cast on them.

(2) Any verification of ballot paper accounts, count or re-count at the election conducted using the electronic counting system must be conducted in accordance with rule 49.

(3) If the GLRO has provided the CRO with an electronic counting system for use at the election, the CRO must obtain the prior written consent of the GLRO before he may conduct the verification of ballot paper accounts or count the votes manually.

(4) If the verification of ballot paper accounts, count or re-count has commenced using the electronic counting system but has not been completed, the CRO may, if he considers it appropriate, discontinue the count and instead count the votes manually.

(5) Where the count or a re-count has been conducted using the electronic counting system, the CRO may, if he considers it appropriate, conduct any re-count without using that system.

(6) Where verification or any count or re-count is conducted using the electronic counting system, any of the steps referred to rule 49, in so far as practicable, may be undertaken—

(a) concurrently with any other of those steps, or

(b) in a different order.

Verification and the count U.K.

49.—(1) Where the CRO discharges the functions specified in regulation 5 of the Combination of Polls Regulations, he must—

(a) in the presence of the counting agents appointed for the purposes of the election and each relevant election or referendum, open each ballot box from each polling station together, and record separately the number of ballot papers used in the election and each relevant election or referendum with which is it is taken,

(b) in the presence of the counting agents appointed for the purposes of the election and each relevant election or referendum, verify each ballot paper account at the election and for each relevant election or referendum,

(c) count such of the postal ballot papers as have been duly returned and record separately the number counted at the election and each relevant election or referendum,

(d) where the same ballot boxes have been used for the election and each relevant election or referendum, separate the ballot papers for all of the Authority elections from those for any other relevant election or referendum.

(e) make up into packets the ballot papers for each relevant election or referendum (not including those for any Authority election) and seal them up in separate containers endorsing on each a description of the area to which the ballot papers relate,

(f) deliver or cause to be delivered to the returning officer for the relevant election or referendum to which the ballot papers relate—

(i) those containers, together with a list of them and of the contents of each, and

(ii) the ballot paper accounts together with a copy of the statement as to the result of their verification in respect of that relevant election or referendum, and

(g) at the same time deliver to that officer the packets that so relate containing–

(i) the unused and spoilt ballot papers,

(ii) the tendered ballot papers, and

(iii) the completed corresponding number lists of the used ballot papers and the certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll.

(2) Where the CRO does not discharge the functions specified in regulation 5 of the Combination of Polls Regulations, and the votes on the ballot papers are not to be counted concurrently with the votes on the ballot papers at a relevant election or referendum, he must—

(a) on receipt of the containers of ballot papers from the returning officer who does discharge those functions, and after the time specified in the notice given by him in writing to the counting agents under rule 47(2), open each container in the presence of the counting agents;

(b) where the proceedings on the issue and receipt of postal ballot papers at the election are not taken together with those proceedings at a relevant election or referendum under regulation 65 of the Representation of the People (England and Wales) Regulations 2001 M64 , or under that regulation as applied by regulations made under sections 44 and 105, or 45 and 105, of the Local Government Act 2000 M65 , count such of the postal ballot papers as have been duly returned and record the number counted,

and paragraph (10) below does not apply to these proceedings.

(3) Where separate ballot boxes are used for the ballots at the election and each relevant election and referendum, no vote for any candidate shall be rendered invalid by the ballot paper being placed in the ballot box used at any relevant election or referendum.

(4) Where the same ballot boxes are used for the election and other Authority elections, but not for other relevant elections or referendums—

(a) the CRO must not mix the ballot papers for Authority elections from any ballot box or container with the contents of any other ballot box or container (including a postal ballot box) during the conduct of verification (where this occurs under paragraph (1)), the count or any re-count;

(b) the ballot boxes from each polling station for the Authority elections shall be opened together and the ballot papers counted (but not necessarily the votes on them) and verified together.

(5) A postal ballot paper must not be taken to be duly returned unless—

(a) it is returned in the manner set out in paragraph (6) and reaches the CRO or any polling station in the appropriate area (as defined in paragraph (7)) before the close of the poll,

(b) the postal voting statement, duly signed, is also returned in the manner set out in paragraph (6) and reaches him or such polling station before that time,

(c) the postal voting statement also states the date of birth of the elector or proxy (as the case may be), and

(d) in a case where the steps for verifying the date of birth and signature of an elector or proxy have been prescribed by regulations made under the 1983 Act M66 , the CRO (having taken such steps) verifies the date of birth and signature of the elector or proxy (as the case may be).

(6) The manner in which any postal paper or postal voting statement may be returned—

(a) to the CRO, is by hand or by post,

(b) to a polling station in the appropriate area, is by hand.

[F86 (6A) A postal ballot paper or postal voting statement that reaches the CRO or a polling station in the appropriate area at or after the close of the poll is treated for the purposes of paragraph (5) as reaching that officer or polling station before the close of the poll if it is delivered by a person who, at the close of the poll, is in the polling station, or in a queue outside the polling station, for the purpose of returning it.]

(7) For the purposes of paragraphs [F87 (5), (6) and (6A)], “polling station in the appropriate area” means a polling station—

(a) in the area which is common to the Assembly constituency, and parliamentary constituency, local counting area, electoral area or voting area, as the case may be, in which the polls at the Authority election and a relevant election or referendum are being taken together, and

(b) in respect of which polls the voter has been issued with a postal ballot paper.

(8) After the completing the proceedings in paragraph (1) or (2), the CRO must cause the electronic counting system to process the ballot papers for the election so as to count—

(a) the number of ballot papers, and

(b) votes given on the ballot papers.

(9) The CRO must not cause the electronic counting system to count any tendered ballot paper.

(10) Subject to paragraph (11), the CRO must verify each ballot paper account by comparing it with the number of ballot papers recorded by him, and the unused and spoilt ballot papers in his possession and the tendered votes list (opening and resealing the packets containing the unused and spoilt ballot papers and the tendered votes list) and must draw up a statement as to the result of the verification, which any election agent may copy.

(11) The CRO may verify each ballot paper account for the election by comparing it with the number of ballot papers processed by the electronic counting system, and the unused and spoilt ballot papers in his possession and the tendered votes list (opening and resealing the packets containing the unused and spoilt ballot papers and the tendered votes list).

(12) The CRO, while verifying the ballot paper accounts and counting the votes, must take all proper precautions for preventing any person from seeing the numbers printed on the back of the papers.

(13) The CRO must so far as practicable proceed continuously with counting the votes, allowing only time for refreshment, except that the hours between 5 in the afternoon and 10 on the following morning may be excluded.

(14) At an ordinary election, the hours between 5 in the afternoon and 10 on the following morning may only be excluded with the prior consent of the GLRO.

(15) During the time so excluded the CRO must—

(a) place the ballot papers and other documents relating to the election under his own seal and the seals of such of the counting agents as desire to affix their seals, and

(b) otherwise take proper precautions for the security of the papers and documents.

Textual Amendments

F86 Sch. 5 rule 49(6A) inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 9(4)(b)(i)

F87 Words in Sch. 5 rule 49(7) substituted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 9(4)(b)(ii)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C7 Sch. 5 para. 49(2)(b) modified (3.8.2012) by The Neighbourhood Planning (Referendums) Regulations 2012 (S.I. 2012/2031), regs. 1, 8, 12, 13, Sch. 4 para. 27(c)

Marginal Citations

M64 S.I. 2001/341.

M65 c. 22. Sections 44 and 45 were amended by the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 (c. 41) and section 105 was amended by section 105 of the Local Government Act 2003 (c. 26).

M66 See regulation 85 and 85A of the Representation of the People (England and Wales) Regulations 2001 (S.I. 2001/341), which were inserted by S.I. 2006/2910.

Rejected ballot papers U.K.

50.—(1) Any ballot paper—

(a) which does not bear the official mark,

(b) on which votes are given for more than one candidate,

(c) on which anything is written or marked by which the voter can be identified except the printed number and other unique identifying mark on the back,

(d) which is unmarked, or

(e) which is void for uncertainty,

is, subject to paragraph (2), void and must not be counted.

(2) A ballot paper on which the vote is marked—

(a) elsewhere than in the proper place, or

(b) otherwise than by means of a cross, or

(c) by more than one mark,

must not for such reason be void if an intention that the vote be given for one only of the candidates clearly appears, and the way the paper is marked does not itself identify the voter and it is not shown that he can be identified by it.

(3) Where the electronic counting system identifies a ballot paper that has been marked, but which appears for whatever reason to be void, it must be examined by a clerk appointed by the CRO in the manner referred to in paragraph (6).

(4) If the clerk, having examined the ballot, considers that the vote is void then the CRO must examine it in the manner referred to in paragraph (6).

(5) After the CRO examines the ballot paper, he must give his decision as to the validity of the vote.

(6) An examination under paragraph (3) or (4) is to be made by the clerk or CRO examining an image of the ballot paper which is shown on a screen so as to be visible to those attending the count.

(7) The CRO may examine any ballot paper that he is not required to examine in accordance with paragraph (4)—

(a) either in the manner referred to in paragraph (6), or

(b) by examining a paper copy,

and where the CRO does so, he must give a decision on that paper in accordance with paragraph (5).

(8) No person attending the count is to be entitled to require the clerk or CRO to examine a ballot paper or to provide a paper copy for inspection.

(9) A record of the CRO's decision must be retained in the electronic counting system together with, in the case of a decision that the ballot paper is void, his reasons by reference to paragraph (1).

(10) If a counting agent objects to the CRO's decision the CRO must record on the electronic counting system that the decision was objected to.

(11) The CRO must draw up a statement showing the number of ballot papers rejected under the several heads of—

(a) want of an official mark,

(b) voting for more than one candidate,

(c) writing or mark by which the voter could be identified,

(d) unmarked ballot paper, or

(e) void for uncertainty.

(12) As soon as practicable after the completion of the statement under paragraph (11) the CRO must inform—

(a) such candidates, election agents and counting agents as are present at the count, and

(b) the GLRO,

of its contents.

Decisions on ballot papers U.K.

51.  The decision of the CRO on any question arising in respect of a ballot paper will be final, but may be subject to review on an election petition.

Re-count U.K.

52.—(1) A candidate or his election agent or a counting agent authorised under rule 30(3) may, if present when the counting or any re-count of the votes, is completed, require the CRO to have the votes re-counted or again re-counted but the CRO may refuse to do so if in his opinion the request is unreasonable.

(2) No step may be taken on the completion of the counting or any re-count of votes until the candidates and election agents present at its completion have been given a reasonable opportunity to exercise the right conferred by this rule.

(3) The CRO may, in his discretion, decide the extent to which any re-count involves the electronic counting of votes.

(4) When the returning officer uses the electronic counting system for the re-counting of votes, he must not re-consider any decision made on any ballot paper under rule 50(5).

Equality of votes U.K.

53.  Where, after the counting of the votes (including any re-count) is completed, an equality of votes is found to exist between any candidates and the addition of a vote would entitle any of those candidates to be declared elected, the CRO must forthwith decide between those candidates by lot, and proceed as if the candidate on whom the lot falls had received an additional vote.

PART 5 U.K. Final Proceedings In Contested And Uncontested Elections

Declaration of result U.K.

54.—(1) In a contested election, when the result of the poll has been ascertained, the CRO must forthwith—

(a) declare to be elected the candidate to whom the majority of votes has been given,

(b) give public notice of—

(i) the name of the person declared to be elected,

(ii) the person's authorised description, if any, within the meaning of rule 6(5) or (7),

(iii) the total number of votes given for each candidate together with the number of rejected ballot papers under each head shown in the statement of rejected ballot papers.

(2) Subject to paragraph (3), after the CRO complies with paragraph (1), he may give public notice of the information referred to paragraph (1)(b)(iii) so as to set out the number of votes falling under each of the heads in that subparagraph, in respect of each ward.

(3) Where the sum of F88 ... votes given for all candidates in any ward does not exceed 500, the GLRO must not give notice under paragraph (2) in respect of that ward alone, but must amalgamate the figures for that ward with those for any other ward in which more than 500 votes have been given, in the same Assembly constituency.

(4) In an uncontested election, the CRO must as soon as practicable after the latest time for the delivery of notices of withdrawals of candidature—

(a) declare to be elected the candidate remaining validly nominated,

(b) give public notice of—

(i) the name of the person declared to be elected, and

(ii) the person's authorised description, if any, within the meaning of rule 6(5) or (7).

(5) The CRO must as soon as practicable notify the GLRO and the proper officer of the Authority of the information in the notice given under (1)(b).

Textual Amendments

F88 Words in Sch. 5 rule 54(3) omitted (1.3.2012) by virtue of The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2012 (S.I. 2012/198), rules 1(1), 3(3)

Return or forfeiture of candidate's deposit U.K.

55.—(1) Unless forfeited in accordance with paragraph (5), the deposit made under rule 8 must be returned to the person making it or his personal representative.

(2) Subject to paragraphs (3) and (4), the deposit must be returned not later than the next day after that on which the result of the election is declared.

(3) For the purposes of paragraph (2)—

(a) a day must be disregarded if, in accordance with rule 4, it would be disregarded in computing any period of time for the purposes of the timetable for the election, and

(b) the deposit must be treated as being returned on a day if a cheque for the amount of the deposit is posted on that day.

(4) If the candidate is not shown as standing nominated in the statement of persons nominated, or if the poll is countermanded or abandoned by reason of his death, the deposit must be returned as soon as practicable after the publication of the statement or after his death, as the case may be.

(5) Where a poll is taken, if, after the counting of the votes by the CRO (including any re-count) is completed, the candidate is found not to have polled more than one-twentieth of the total number of votes polled by all the candidates, the deposit must be forfeited to the Greater London Authority.

PART 6 U.K. Disposal of Documents

Sealing up of ballot papers U.K.

56.—(1) On the completion of the counting at a contested election the CRO must seal up in separate packets the counted and rejected ballot papers.

(2) Where some or all of the votes have been counted using the electronic counting system, the CRO must also seal up in a separate packet a complete electronic record (“the electronic record”) of the information stored in the electronic counting system, held in such device as may be suitable for the purpose of its storage.

(3) After making the electronic record under paragraph (2), the CRO must arrange for the original records in the electronic counting system to be removed from it and destroyed in a manner that ensures that the secrecy of those records is preserved.

(4) The CRO must not open the sealed packets of—

(a) tendered ballot papers, or

(b) certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll.

(5) Where the CRO discharges the functions referred to in regulation 5 of the Combination of Polls Regulations, he must also not open the sealed packets of—

(a) the completed corresponding number lists,

(b) marked copies of the register of electors (including any marked copy notices issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act) and lists of proxies.

Delivery and retention of documents U.K.

57.—(1) The CRO must then forward the following documents to the relevant registration officer—

(a) the packets of ballot papers in his possession,

(b) the packet containing the electronic record (if any),

(c) the ballot paper accounts and the statements of rejected ballot papers and of the result of the verification of the ballot paper accounts,

(d) the tendered votes lists, the lists of voters with disabilities assisted by companions, the lists of votes marked by the presiding officer and the related statements, the lists maintained under rule 44 and the declarations made by the companions of voters with disabilities,

(e) the packets of the completed corresponding number lists,

(f) the packets of certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll, and

(g) the packets containing marked copies of registers (including any marked copy notices issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act) and of the postal voters list, of the lists of proxies and of the proxy postal voters list,

endorsing on each packet a description of its contents, the date of the election to which they relate and the name of the Assembly constituency for which the election was held.

(2) At an election where the returning officer does not discharge the functions referred to in regulation 5 of the Combination of Polls Regulations, paragraph (1) must have effect as if sub paragraphs (d), (e) and (f) were omitted.

Orders for production of documents U.K.

58.—(1) An order—

(a) for the inspection or production of any rejected ballot papers in the custody of the relevant registration officer, or

(b) for the opening of a packet containing the electronic record or a sealed packet of completed corresponding number lists or certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll or the inspection of any counted ballot papers, in the custody of the relevant registration officer,

may be made by a county court, if the court is satisfied by evidence on oath that the order is required for the purpose of instituting or maintaining a prosecution for an offence in relation to ballot papers, or for the purpose of an election petition.

(2) An election court may make an order for the opening of a packet containing the electronic record or a sealed packet of completed corresponding number lists or certificates or for the inspection of any counted ballot papers in the custody of the relevant registration officer.

(3) An order under this rule may be made subject to such conditions as to—

(a) persons,

(b) time,

(c) place and mode of inspection,

(d) production or opening,

as the court making the order thinks expedient; but in making and carrying into effect an order for the opening of a packet containing the electronic record or a packet of completed corresponding number lists or certificates or for the inspection of counted ballot papers, care must be taken that the way in which the vote of any particular elector has been given must not be disclosed until it has been proved—

(i) that his vote was given, and

(ii) that the vote has been declared by a competent court to be invalid.

(4) An appeal lies to the High Court from any order of a county court under this rule.

(5) Any power given under this rule to a county court may be exercised by any judge of the court otherwise than in open court.

(6) Where an order is made for the production by the relevant registration officer of any document or electronic record in his custody relating to any specified election—

(a) the production by him or his agent of the document or electronic record ordered in such manner as may be directed by that order will be conclusive evidence that the document or electronic record relates to the specified election, and

(b) any endorsement on any packet of ballot papers or so produced will be prima facie evidence that the ballot papers are what they are stated to be by the endorsement.

(7) The production from proper custody of —

(a) a ballot paper purporting to have been used at any election, or

(b) a copy of the electronic record which purports to record that a particular ballot paper was used at any election, and

a completed corresponding number list with a number written beside the number of the ballot paper, will be prima facie evidence that the elector whose vote was given by that ballot paper was the person who, at the time of the election, had affixed to his entry in the register of electors or on the notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act, the same number as was written on the completed corresponding number list.

(8) Unless authorised by this rule, no person may be allowed to inspect any rejected or counted ballot papers in the custody of the relevant registration officer or open any sealed packets of completed corresponding number lists, certificates of employment on the day of the poll or containing the electronic record.

Retention and destruction of documents and records U.K.

59.  The relevant registration officer must retain or cause to be retained for one year all documents and, where applicable, the electronic record relating to an election forwarded to him in pursuance of these Rules by a CRO, and then, unless otherwise directed by an order of a county court, a Crown Court, a magistrate's court or an election court, must cause them to be destroyed.

PART 7 U.K. Death Of Candidate

Countermand or abandonment of poll on death of candidate U.K.

60.—(1) If at a contested election proof is given to the CRO's satisfaction before the result of the election is declared that one of the persons named or to be named as candidate in the ballot papers has died, the CRO—

(a) must countermand notice of the poll or, if polling has begun, direct that the poll be abandoned,

(b) must inform the GLRO of the countermand or abandonment of the poll and of the name of the candidate who has died.

(2) Subsection (1) of section 39 (local elections void etc. in England and Wales) of the 1983 Act applies in respect of any vacancy which remains unfilled as if for the reference to the returning officer there were substituted a reference to the CRO.

(3) Where the poll is abandoned by reason of a candidate's death, no further ballot papers may be issued, and the presiding officer at any polling station must take the like steps (so far as not already taken) for the delivery to the CRO of ballot boxes and of ballot papers and other documents in his possession as he is required to take on the close of the poll in due course.

(4) The CRO must dispose of the ballot papers and other documents in his possession as he is required to do on the completion in due course of the counting of the votes, subject to paragraphs (5) and (6).

(5) It is not be necessary for any ballot paper account to be prepared or verified.

(6) The CRO must seal up all the ballot papers, whether the votes on them have been counted or not, and it will not be necessary to seal up counted and rejected ballot papers in separate packets.

(7) The provisions of these Rules as to the inspection, production, retention and destruction of ballot papers and other documents relating to a poll at an election apply to any such documents relating to a poll abandoned by reason of a candidate's death, subject to paragraphs (8) and (9).

(8) Ballot papers on which the votes were neither counted nor rejected must be treated as counted ballot papers.

(9) No order may be made for—

(a) the production or inspection of any ballot papers, or

(b) for the opening of a sealed packet of completed corresponding number lists or certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll,

unless the order is made by a court with reference to a prosecution or election petition.

(10) The countermand of the notice of poll or abandonment of the poll at the election, will not effect the poll at each relevant election or referendum.

Rule 5(4)

SCHEDULE 6 U.K. THE LONDON MEMBERS ELECTION RULES

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C8 Sch. 6 applied (with modifications) (18.2.2012) by The Local Authorities (Conduct of Referendums) (Council Tax Increases) (England) Regulations 2012 (S.I. 2012/444), reg. 1, Sch. 4 para. 1 Table 11 (with reg. 27)

PART 1 U.K. General Provisions

Citation U.K.

1.  This Schedule may be cited as the London Members Election Rules.

Interpretation U.K.

2.—(1) In the rules in this Schedule, unless the context indicates otherwise—

“Combination of Polls Regulations” means the Representation of the People (Combination of Polls) (England and Wales) Regulations 2004 M67 ;

“counting observer” has the same meaning as in regulation 2 of the Referendum Regulations;

“counting officer” has the same meaning as in regulation 9 of the Referendum Regulations;

“election” means an election for the return of the London members;

“electoral area” where the Authority election is held together with a referendum, includes a voting area where the referendum is held;

“European Parliamentary election” has the same meaning as in section 27(1) of the Representation of the People Act 1985 M68 ;

“individual candidate” means a candidate other than a list candidate at an election for the return of London members of the London Assembly;

“list candidate” means a person included on a party list;

“local authority mayoral election” means an election conducted under the Local Authorities (Mayoral Elections) (England and Wales) Regulations 2007 M69 ;

“local count” means the count of the London votes given for a registered party or, as the case may be, an individual candidate, at an election in an Assembly constituency;

“local counting area” has the same meaning as in regulation 2(1) of the European Parliamentary Elections Regulations 2004 M70 ;

“London vote” has the same meaning as in Part 1 of the 1999 Act;

“party list” means a list delivered to the GLRO in accordance with paragraph 5 (party lists and individual candidates) of Part 2 of Schedule 2 to the 1999 Act on behalf of a party registered under Part 2 (registration of political parties) of the 2000 Act M71 ;

“petition organiser” has the same meaning as in regulation 3 of the Local Authorities (Referendums) (Petitions and Directions) (England) Regulations 2000 M72 ;

“polling observer” has the same meaning as in regulation 2 of the Referendum Regulations;

“referendum” means a referendum conducted under the Referendum Regulations;

“Referendum Regulations” means the Local Authorities (Conduct of Referendums) (England) Regulations 2007 M73 ;

“relevant election or referendum” means one or more of the following—

(a)

a Parliamentary election,

(b)

a European Parliamentary election,

(c)

a local government election (including another Authority election where more than one is taken together),

(d)

a local authority mayoral election or referendum in accordance with regulations made under sections 44 and 105, or 45 and 105, of the Local Government Act 2000 M74 ;

“voting area” has the same meaning as in regulation 2 of the Referendum Regulations.

(2) In the case of a referendum, a reference to a—

(a) “candidate” shall be construed as a reference to a counting observer,

(b) “election agent” shall be construed as a reference to a counting observer,

(c) “polling agent” shall be construed as a reference to polling observer,

(d) “returning officer” shall be construed as a reference to a counting officer.

(3) Reference to a rule by number alone is a reference to the rule so numbered in this Schedule.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C9 Sch. 6 para. 2 modified (3.8.2012) by The Neighbourhood Planning (Referendums) Regulations 2012 (S.I. 2012/2031), regs. 1, 8, 12, 13, Sch. 4 para. 28(a)(b)

Marginal Citations

M67 S.I 2004/294. Relevant amendments have been made to those regulations by S.I. 2006/3278.

M68 1985 c. 50. The definition was amended by section 3 of the European Communities (Amendment) Act 1986 (c. 58).

M69 SI 2007/1024

M70 S.I 2004/293

M71 2000 c.41

M72 S.I. 2000/2852

M73 S.I. 2007/2089

M74 2000 c.22. Sections 44 and 45 were amended by the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 (c. 41).

PART 2 U.K. Provisions As To Time

Timetable U.K.

3.  The proceedings at the election must be conducted in accordance with the following timetable:

Timetable

Proceedings	Time
Publication of notice of election	Not later than the thirtieth day before the day of election.
Delivery of nomination papers and party lists	Not later than [F89 4 in the afternoon] on the twenty–fourth day before the day of election.
[F90 Delivery of notices of withdrawals of candidature	Not later than 4 in the afternoon on the twenty-fourth day before the day of election]
Publication of statement as to persons nominated	Not later than [F91 4 in the afternoon] on the twenty-second day before the day of election.
F92 . . .	F92 . . .
Notice of poll	Not later than the sixth day before the day of election.
Polling	Between the hours of 7 in the morning and 10 at night on the day of election.

Textual Amendments

F89 Words in Sch. 6 rule 3 substituted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(12)(a)

F90 Words in Sch. 6 rule 3 inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(12)(b)

F91 Words in Sch. 6 rule 3 substituted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(12)(c)

F92 Words in Sch. 6 rule 3 omitted (8.2.2016) by virtue of The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(12)(d)

Computation of time U.K.

4.—(1) In computing any period of time for the purposes of the timetable–

(a) a Saturday or Sunday,

(b) Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Good Friday or a bank holiday, or

(c) a day appointed for public thanksgiving or mourning,

must be disregarded, and any such day must not be treated as a day for the purpose of any proceedings up to the completion of the poll nor must the CRO be obliged to proceed with the counting of the votes on such a day.

(2) In this rule, “bank holiday” means a day which is a bank holiday under the Banking and Financial Dealings Act 1971 M75 in England and Wales.

Marginal Citations

M75 1971 c. 80

PART 3 U.K. Stages Common To Contested And Uncontested Elections

Notice of election U.K.

5.—(1) The GLRO must publish in each Assembly constituency notice of the election stating—

(a) the place and times at which nomination papers and party lists are to be delivered, and

(b) the date of the poll in the event of a contest,

and the notice must state that forms of nomination papers and party lists may be obtained at that place and those times.

(2) The notice of election must state the arrangements (if any) which apply for the payment of the deposit required by rule 10 by means of the electronic transfer of funds.

(3) The notice of election must state the date by which—

(a) applications to vote by post or proxy, and

(b) other applications and notices about postal or proxy voting,

must reach the registration officer for local government electors in order that they may be effective for the election.

Nomination of candidates: individual candidates U.K.

6.—(1) Each individual candidate must be nominated by a separate nomination paper that must be—

(a) in the appropriate form, and

(b) delivered to the GLRO in accordance with the following provisions of this rule and rule 8.

(2) The nomination paper of an individual candidate must state the candidate's–

(a) full names,

(b) home address, in full, and

(c) if desired, a description consisting of the word “Independent”,

and the surname must be placed first in the list of names.

Nomination of candidates: list candidates U.K.

7.—(1) A registered party which is a qualifying party and is to stand at the election of London members must be nominated by the delivery of a nomination paper that must be—

(a) in the appropriate form, and

(b) delivered to the GLRO, by the party's registered nominating officer or a person authorised in writing by him, in accordance with the following provisions of this rule and rule 8.

(2) The registered party's nomination paper must—

(a) state the authorised description by which the registered party is to stand for election,

(b) include a statement, signed by the person issuing the paper, that it is issued either—

(i) by the party's registered nominating officer, or

(ii) on behalf of the party's registered nominating officer, by a person authorised in writing by him, and

(c) be accompanied by a party list which sets out the full names and home addresses of each candidate included in that list.

(3) An authorised description for the purposes of paragraph (2)(a) must be either—

(a) the name of the party registered under section 28 of the 2000 Act M76 , or

(b) a description of the party, registered under section 28A M77 of that Act.

(4) A person will be guilty of a corrupt practice if he fraudulently purports to be authorised to make the statement required by paragraph (2)(b) by or on behalf of a registered party's nominating officer.

(5) For the purposes of the application of these rules in relation to an election—

(a) “registered party” means a party which was registered under Part 2 of the 2000 Act on the day (“the relevant day”) which is two days before the last day for the delivery of nomination papers and party lists at that election,

(b) a registered party is a qualifying party if on the relevant day the party was registered in respect of England in the Great Britain register maintained under that Part of that Act.

Marginal Citations

M76 Section 28 of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 (c.41) was amended by S.I. 2004/366 and by section 48 of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22).

M77 Section 28A of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 (c.41) was inserted by section 49(1) of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22).

Nomination papers: general provisions U.K.

8.—(1) The following provisions of this rule have effect in relation to nomination papers delivered under rules 6 and 7.

(2) If an individual candidate or a candidate included on a party list commonly uses—

(a) a surname which is different from any other surname he has, or

(b) a forename which is different from any other forename he has,

the nomination paper and party list may state the commonly used surname or forename, or both surname and forename in addition to the other name.

(3) Each nomination paper must be delivered to the GLRO at the place specified by him in the notice of election, which must be at one of the offices of the Greater London Authority, and must be received by the GLRO before the last time for the delivery of nomination papers and party lists.

(4) Where a nomination paper is delivered in respect of—

(a) the same registered party, or

(b) the same individual candidate,

after an earlier nomination paper has been delivered, that later paper must be deemed to supersede the earlier one.

(5) In this rule and in the following provisions of these rules, unless the context requires otherwise—

(a) “nomination paper” includes a reference to—

(i) the nomination paper of a registered party, and

(ii) the nomination paper of an individual candidate;

(b) “nomination paper of a registered party” includes a reference to a party list.

Consent to nomination U.K.

9.—(1) A person will not be validly nominated (whether as an individual candidate or a list candidate) unless his consent to nomination–

(a) is given in writing in the appropriate form, or a form to like effect, on or within one month before the last day for the delivery of nomination papers;

(b) is attested by one witness whose name and address must be given; and

(c) is delivered at the place and within the time for delivery of nomination papers.

(2) A candidate's consent given under this rule must—

(a) state the day, month and year of his birth;

(b) contain a statement that he has read whichever of sub-paragraphs (5) and (6) of paragraph 5 of Schedule 2 to the 1999 Act (persons who many not be candidates) applies in his case; and

(c) contain a statement that to the best of the candidate's knowledge and belief he is not disqualified from being elected by reason of—

(i) any disqualification set out in section 21 (disqualification from being the Mayor or an Assembly member) of the 1999 Act, F93 ...

[F94 (ii) a decision made under section 78A of the Local Government Act 2000 (decisions of First-tier tribunal), or

(iii) an order made under section 34(4) of the Localism Act 2011 (offences).]

Textual Amendments

F93 Word in Sch. 6 rule 9(2)(c) omitted (8.2.2016) by virtue of The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 7(5)(a)

F94 Sch. 6 rule 9(2)(c)(ii)(iii) substituted for Sch. 6 rule 9(2)(c)(ii) (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 7(5)(b)

Deposits U.K.

10.—(1) A person will not be validly nominated as an individual candidate at the election unless the sum of £5,000 is deposited by him or on his behalf with the GLRO at the place and during the time for delivery of nomination papers and party lists.

(2) A registered party (and anyone on its party list) will not be validly nominated unless the sum of £5,000 is deposited on its behalf with the GLRO at the place and during the time for delivery of nomination papers and party lists.

(3) The deposit may be made either—

(a) by the deposit of any legal tender, or

(b) by means of a banker's draft, or

(c) with the GLRO's consent, in any other manner including by means of a debit or credit card or the electronic transfer of funds,

but the GLRO may refuse to accept a deposit sought to be made by means of a banker's draft if he does not know that the drawer carries on business as a banker in the United Kingdom.

(4) Where the deposit is made on behalf of an individual candidate, the person making the deposit must at the time he makes it give his name and address to the GLRO, unless they have previously been given to him under section 67 (appointment of election agent) of the 1983 Act.

Decisions as to validity of nomination papers U.K.

11.—(1) Where, in the case of an individual candidate, a nomination paper (“individual nomination paper”) and the candidate's consent to it are delivered and a deposit is made, in accordance with these Rules, the candidate will be deemed to stand nominated unless and until—

(a) the GLRO decides that the nomination paper is invalid, or

(b) proof is given to the GLRO's satisfaction of the candidate's death, or

(c) the candidate withdraws.

(2) Where, the nomination paper of a registered party and the consent of each candidate included in that party's list are delivered, and a deposit is made, in accordance with these Rules, that party and (subject to paragraph (6)) each candidate on its list must be deemed to stand nominated unless and until the GLRO decides that the nomination paper is invalid.

(3) As soon as practicable after each nomination paper has been delivered, the GLRO must examine it and decide whether the individual candidate, or as the case may be, each registered party and each candidate included in that party's list has been validly nominated.

(4) The GLRO is entitled to hold an individual nomination paper invalid only on the grounds that the particulars of the candidate on the nomination paper are not as required by law.

(5) The GLRO is entitled to hold the nomination paper of a registered party invalid only on one of the following grounds—

(a) that the authorised description stated under rule 7(2)(a) breaches rule 8(3),

(b) that the nomination paper does not contain the statement referred to in rule 7(2)(b),

(c) that the number of candidates on the list is greater than 25.

(6) Where, in respect of a candidate included in a party list—

(a) proof is given to the GLRO's satisfaction of his death,

(b) he withdraws or his candidature is withdrawn in accordance with rule 15,

(c) his particulars in that list are not as required by law, or

(d) the consent to nomination of that candidate is not delivered in accordance with rule 9,

the GLRO must delete the name and address of that candidate from the list.

(7) Where the GLRO has decided under paragraph (3)—

(a) that an individual nomination paper is invalid,

(b) that the nomination paper of a registered party is invalid or that the name and address of a list candidate must be deleted from the list,

he must endorse and sign on the nomination paper to record that decision and the reasons for his decision.

(8) The GLRO must, as soon as practicable after making such a decision under paragraph (3) that a nomination paper is valid or invalid, send notice of that decision—

(a) to the candidate at his home address as given in his nomination paper, and

(b) in the case of a list candidate, also to the nominating officer.

(9) Where in the GLRO's opinion the nomination paper of a registered party is invalid on the grounds in paragraphs (5)(a) or (b), then he must give a decision to that effect—

(a) as soon as practicable after the delivery of the nomination paper, and

(b) in any event, before the end of the period of 24 hours starting with the end of the period for the delivery of nomination papers set out in the timetable in rule 3.

(10) The GLRO's decision that a nomination paper is valid is final and may not be questioned in any proceeding whatsoever.

(11) Subject to paragraph (10), nothing in this rule prevents the validity of a nomination being questioned on an election petition.

Publication of statement of persons nominated U.K.

12.—(1) The GLRO must prepare and publish a statement showing—

(a) each registered party which has been and stands nominated, together with that party's list,

(b) the persons who have been and stand nominated as individual candidates, and

(c) any other parties or persons who have been nominated, together with the reason why they no longer stand nominated.

(2) If an individual's nomination paper or person's entry on a party list gives a commonly used surname or forename, or both surname and forename, in addition to another name, the statement must show the person's commonly used surname or forename, or both surname and forename (as the case may be) instead of any other name.

(3) Paragraph (2) does not apply if the GLRO thinks—

(a) that the use of the person's commonly used name may be likely to mislead or confuse electors, or

(b) that the commonly used name is obscene or offensive.

(4) If paragraph (3) applies, the GLRO must give notice in writing to the candidate of his reasons for refusing to allow the use of a commonly used name.

(5) The statement must show, in the following order—

(a) the registered parties which have been and stand nominated, arranged in alphabetical order according to the authorised descriptions given in the nomination papers,

(b) the names and home addresses of the list candidates as given in party lists, arranged in the order in which their names appear in those lists,

(c) the names, addresses and descriptions (if any) of the persons standing nominated as individual candidates, arranged alphabetically in the order of their surnames and, if there are two or more of them with the same surname, of their other names.

(6) In the case of an individual candidate nominated by more than one nomination paper, the GLRO must take the particulars required by the foregoing provisions of this rule from such one of the papers as the candidate (or the GLRO in default of the candidate) may select.

Correction of minor errors U.K.

13.—(1) The GLRO may, if he thinks fit, at any time before the publication under rule 12 of the statement of parties and persons nominated, correct minor errors in a nomination paper.

(2) Errors which may be corrected include—

(a) errors as to a person's electoral number,

(b) obvious errors of spelling in relation to the details of a party or candidate.

(3) Anything done by the GLRO in pursuance of this rule may not be questioned in any proceedings other than proceedings on an election petition.

(4) The GLRO must have regard to any guidance issued by the Electoral Commission for the purposes of this rule.

Inspection of nomination papers and consent to nomination U.K.

14.—(1) During ordinary office hours, in the period starting 24 hours after the latest time for the delivery of nomination papers and before the date of the poll, any person may inspect and take copies of, or extracts from—

(a) a nomination paper, or

(b) the consents to nomination.

(2) Inspection under paragraph (1) may not take place on a day that is specified in rule 4(1).

Withdrawal or death of candidate U.K.

15.—(1) An individual candidate may withdraw his candidature by notice of withdrawal—

(a) signed by him and attested by one witness, whose name and address must be given, and

(b) delivered to the GLRO at the place for delivery of nomination papers and party lists,

by the end of the period for the delivery of notices of withdrawals of candidature in the timetable in rule 3.

(2) The nominating officer of a registered party, or a person authorised in writing by him may withdraw that party's nomination by a notice of withdrawal signed by him and delivered to the returning officer at the place for delivery of nomination papers and party lists.

(3) Where a candidate is outside the United Kingdom, a notice of withdrawal signed by his election agent and accompanied by a written declaration also so signed of the candidate's absence from the United Kingdom will be of the same effect as a notice of withdrawal signed by the candidate; but where the candidate stands nominated by more than one nomination paper a notice of withdrawal under this paragraph will be effective if, and only if, it is accompanied, in addition to that declaration, by a written statement signed by the candidate that the person giving the notice is authorised to do so on the candidate's behalf during his absence from the United Kingdom.

(4) If before the result of the election is declared, proof is given to the GLRO's satisfaction that an individual candidate who is named (or is to be named) in the ballot papers or a candidate whose name appears on a party list has died, then (in addition to complying with any other requirement of these rules relevant to that event) the GLRO must—

(a) inform each CRO of the death of the candidate;

(b) in the case of a person whose name is included in a party list, remove that person's name from that list.

Method of election U.K.

16.  If, after any withdrawals under rule 15, the number of persons remaining validly nominated exceeds the number of seats available for allocation to London members, then, unless all of those persons are named on the same party list, a poll must be taken in accordance with Part 4 of these Rules.

PART 4 U.K. Contested Elections

Poll to be taken by ballot U.K.

17.  The votes at the poll must be given by ballot to enable the seats for London members to be allocated to registered parties and individual candidates in accordance with paragraphs 7 and 8 of Part 2 of Schedule 2 to the 1999 Act.

The ballot papers U.K.

18.—(1) The ballot of every voter must consist of a ballot paper, which must be in the appropriate form.

(2) Each registered party which remains validly nominated at the election and whose party list includes a person who remains validly nominated as a list candidate, after any withdrawals, and no other, is entitled to have their authorised description inserted in the ballot paper.

(3) Each person remaining validly nominated as an individual candidate at the election, after any withdrawals, and no other, is entitled to have their name inserted in the ballot paper.

(4) Every ballot paper—

(a) must [F95 , so far as practicable for the purposes of electronic counting,] be printed in accordance with the directions set out in the Forms Schedule,

(b) must contain the authorised descriptions of the registered parties; and the names and other particulars of the individual candidates as shown in the statement of persons nominated,

(c) must have a number and other unique identifying mark printed on the back, and

(d) may, in the case of ballot papers for use at polling stations, be marked with the words “do not fold”.

(5) If a request is made by or on behalf of a registered party's nominating officer, the ballot paper must contain, against the party's authorised description, the party's registered emblem (or, as the case may be, one of the party's registered emblems).

(6) The request under paragraph (5) must—

(a) be made in writing to the GLRO, and

(b) be received by him during the period for delivery of nomination papers and party lists set out in the timetable in rule 3.

(7) The order of the authorised descriptions of the registered parties and the names of the individual candidates must be in the same order as in the statement of parties and persons nominated.

(8) The GLRO must supply the ballot papers for use at the election to the CRO by such date as may be agreed between them.

(9) The ballot papers supplied under paragraph (8) must be of a different colour from those used at any relevant election or referendum with which the election is taken.

Textual Amendments

F95 Words in Sch. 6 rule 18(4)(a) inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 8(6)

The corresponding number list U.K.

19.—(1) The CRO must prepare a list containing the numbers and other unique identifying marks of all of the ballot papers to be issued by him in pursuance of rule 24(1) or provided by him in pursuance of rule 29(1).

(2) The list must be in the appropriate form or a form to like effect.

(3) At an ordinary election, the same list may be used for each Authority election with which the election is combined.

The official mark U.K.

20.—(1) Every ballot paper must contain an appropriate security marking (the official mark).

(2) The official mark must be kept secret, and an interval of not less than five years must intervene between the use of the same official mark at any Authority election.

(3) The GLRO may use a different official mark for different purposes at the same election.

Prohibition of disclosure of vote U.K.

21.  No person who has voted at the election may, in any legal proceeding to question the election, be required to state for which candidate or party he has voted.

Use of schools and public rooms U.K.

22.—(1) The CRO may use, free of charge, for the purpose of taking the poll or counting the votes—

(a) a room in a school maintained or assisted by a [F96 local authority (as defined in the Education Act 1996)] or a school in respect of which grants are made out of moneys provided by Parliament to the person or body of persons responsible for the management of the school,

(b) a room the expense of maintaining which is met by any local authority.

(2) The CRO must make good any damage done to, and defray an expense incurred by the persons having control over, any such room as mentioned in paragraph (1) by reason of its being used for the purpose of taking the poll or counting the votes.

Textual Amendments

F96 Words in Sch. 6 rule 22(1)(a) substituted (5.5.2010) by The Local Education Authorities and Children’s Services Authorities (Integration of Functions) (Local and Subordinate Legislation) Order 2010 (S.I. 2010/1172), art. 1(1), Sch. 3 para. 77(2)

Notice of poll U.K.

23.—(1) The GLRO must, in accordance with the timetable in rule 3, publish notice of the poll stating—

(a) the day and hours fixed for the poll,

(b) the number of seats for London members available for allocation at that election,

(c) the authorised description of each registered party whose party list includes persons who remain validly nominated as list candidates, and

(d) the name and description (if any) of each individual candidate remaining validly nominated,

and rule 12(5) applies in relation to the order in which that information appears on the notice of the poll as it applies in relation to the statement of persons nominated.

(2) The CRO must, not later than the time of the publication of the notice of the poll, also give public notice of—

(a) the situation of each polling station, and

(b) the description of voters entitled to vote there,

and he must as soon as practicable after giving such a notice give a copy of it to each of the election agents.

(3) The notice published under paragraph (2) shall—

(a) state that the poll at the election is to be taken together with the poll at a relevant election or referendum as the case may be,

(b) specify the parliamentary constituency, European Parliamentary local counting area, relevant London borough, or voting area; and in the case of an election to fill a casual vacancy, the electoral area for which the relevant election or referendum is held, and

(c) where the polls are to be taken together in part of the Borough only, specify that part.

(4) The notice of poll must include the heading “GREATER LONDON AUTHORITY ELECTION”.

Postal ballot papers U.K.

24.—(1) The CRO must, in accordance with regulations made under the 1983 Act M78 , issue to those entitled to vote by post a ballot paper and a postal voting statement, together with such envelopes for their return as may be prescribed in such regulations.

(2) The postal voting statement must be in the appropriate form or a form to like effect.

(3) The postal voting statement must include provision for the form to be signed and for stating the date of birth of the elector or proxy (as the case may be).

(4) The CRO must also issue to those entitled to vote by post such information as he thinks appropriate about how to obtain—

(a) translations into languages other than English of any directions to or guidance for voters sent with the ballot paper,

(b) a translation into Braille of such directions or guidance,

(c) graphical representations of such directions or guidance,

(d) the directions or guidance in any other form (including any audible form).

(5) In the case of a ballot paper issued to a person at an address in the United Kingdom, the CRO must ensure that the return of the ballot paper and postal voting statement is free of charge to the voter.

(6) Where the proceedings on the issue and receipt of postal ballot papers at the election are taken together with a relevant election or referendum the appropriate form of postal voting statement under paragraph (2) may be the joint postal voting statement which must be in the appropriate form or form to like effect.

Marginal Citations

M78 See the Representation of the People (England and Wales) Regulations 2001 S.I. 2001/341 as amended by S.I. 2002/1871, 2006/752 and S.I. 2006/2910.

Provision of polling stations U.K.

25.—(1) The CRO must provide a sufficient number of polling stations and, subject to the following provisions of this rule, must allot the electors to the polling stations in such manner as he thinks most convenient.

(2) One or more polling stations may be provided in the same room.

(3) The polling station allotted to electors from any parliamentary polling district wholly or partly within the Assembly constituency must, in the absence of special circumstances, be in the parliamentary polling place for that district, unless that place is outside the Assembly constituency.

(4) The CRO must provide each polling station with such number of compartments as may be necessary in which the voters can mark their votes screened from observation.

Appointment of presiding officers and clerks U.K.

26.—(1) The CRO must appoint and pay a presiding officer to attend at each polling station and such clerks and technical assistants as may be necessary for the purposes of the election, but he must not appoint any person who has been employed by or on behalf of a candidate in or about the election.

(2) The CRO may, if he thinks fit, preside at a polling station and the provisions of this Part relating to a presiding officer apply to the CRO so presiding with the necessary modifications as to things to be done by the CRO to the presiding officer or by the presiding officer to the CRO.

(3) A presiding officer may do, by the clerks appointed to assist him, any act (including the asking of questions) which he is required or authorised by this Part to do at a polling station except order the arrest, exclusion or removal of any person from the polling station.

Issue of official poll cards U.K.

27.—(1) The CRO must as soon as practicable after the publication of the notice of election, send to electors and their proxies an official poll card.

(2) An elector's official poll card must be sent or delivered to his qualifying address, and a proxy's to his address as shown in the list of proxies.

(3) The official poll card must be in the appropriate form or a form to like effect, and must set out—

(a) that the election is of London members of the London Assembly at an ordinary election,

(b) the elector's name, qualifying address and number on the register,

(c) the date and hours of the poll and the situation of the elector's polling station, and

(d) such other information as the CRO thinks appropriate,

and different information may be provided in pursuance of sub-paragraph (d) to different electors or descriptions of elector.

(4) In the case of an elector with an anonymous entry, instead of containing the matter mentioned in paragraph (3)(b), the polling card must contain such matter as is specified in the appropriate form.

(5) At an ordinary election, the CRO must issue a combined poll card in the appropriate form.

(6) If the CRO and the returning officer for each relevant election or referendum agree, the poll card issued under this rule may be combined with the official poll card for the relevant election or referendum, with necessary adaptations.

(7) In this rule “elector” means—

(a) an elector with an entry on the register to be used at the election on the last day for the publication of the notice of the election, and

(b) includes a person then shown in the register as below voting age if (but only if) it appears from the register that he will be of voting age on the day fixed for the poll.

Information for voters U.K.

28.—(1) At an ordinary election, the GLRO may, in addition to a statement by him in an election booklet, include in the booklet information for voters that has been agreed by him with the Electoral Commission.

(2) The information for voters given in the election booklet may include information about—

(a) the office of the Mayor and the London Assembly,

(b) the system of voting at each Authority election,

(c) how to vote in a manner that will ensure a vote is regarded as validly cast, and

subject to paragraph (3), may include any other information given in exercise of the GLRO's duty under section 69 (encouraging electoral participation) of the 2006 Act.

(3) The information for voters must not contain—

(a) any advertising material,

(b) any material referring to a candidate or a registered party, other than by reproduction of a ballot paper which refers equally to all candidates and parties at the ordinary election,

(c) any material referring to the holder, at any time, of the office of Mayor or Assembly member, other than under paragraph (b) as a candidate at the ordinary election.

(4) Information published in an election booklet under this rule must be printed on not more than two sides of A5 paper.

Equipment of polling stations U.K.

29.—(1) The CRO must provide each presiding officer with—

(a) such ballot papers as may be necessary, and

(b) such ballot boxes as may be necessary having taken account of any direction made by the GLRO in accordance with paragraph (9).

(2) Every ballot box must be so constructed that the ballot papers can be put in it, but cannot be withdrawn from it, without the box being unlocked or, where the box has no lock, the seal being broken.

(3) The CRO must provide each polling station with—

(a) materials to enable voters to mark the ballot papers,

(b) copies of the register of electors or such part of it as contains the entries relating to the electors allotted to the station,

(c) the parts of any special lists prepared for the election corresponding to the register of electors or the part of it provided under sub-paragraph (b),

(d) a notice of the death of any person of whose death he has been informed as mentioned in rule 15(4),

(e) a list consisting of that part of the list prepared under rule 19 which contains the numbers (but not the other unique identifying marks) corresponding to those on the ballot papers provided to the presiding officer of the polling station.

(4) The reference in paragraph (3)(b) to the copies of the register of electors includes a reference to copies of any notices issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act M79 in respect of alterations to the register.

(5) The CRO must also provide each polling station with a device for enabling voters who are blind or partially sighted to vote without any need for assistance from the presiding officer or any companion within the meaning of rule 41.

(6) The device referred to in paragraph (5) above must—

(a) allow a ballot paper to be inserted into and removed from or attached to and detached from the device, easily and without damage to the paper,

(b) keep the ballot paper firmly in place during use,

(c) provide suitable means for the voter to—

(i) identify the spaces on the ballot paper on which he may mark his vote,

(ii) identify the candidate to whom each such space refers, and

(iii) mark his vote on the space he has chosen.

(7) The enlarged sample copies of the ballot paper that the GLRO is required to provide, or cause to be displayed at every polling station (in accordance with section 199B(5) and (7) of the 1983 Act) must—

(a) be provided to the CRO who will deliver them to the polling stations, and

(b) be printed on paper of the same colour as the ballot paper at the election.

(8) The CRO must also provide each polling station with notices for the guidance of voters, which must be exhibited—

(a) outside the polling station,

(b) inside the polling station—

(i) in the communal areas, and

(ii) in every voting compartment.

(9) If the GLRO thinks fit he may, not later than the date of the notice of election, direct the CRO that joint ballot boxes must be used for the ballot papers at the election and any or all relevant elections or referendums with which the election is taken.

(10) Where separate ballot boxes are to be used for the election and every relevant election or referendum, each ballot box shall be clearly marked with—

(a) the election or referendum to which it relates, as shown on the ballot papers for that election or referendum, and

(b) the words “Place the [specify colour of ballot papers in question] ballot paper here”.

(11) Where the CRO does not discharge the functions specified in regulation 5 of the Combination of Polls Regulations, references in this rule to the CRO should be read as references to the returning officer who does discharge those functions.

Marginal Citations

M79 Section 13B of the 1983 Act was inserted by paragraph 3 of Schedule 2 to the Representation of the People Act 2000 (c.2) and amended by section 11(3) of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22). Subsections (3B) and (3D) of section 13B were inserted by section 11(4) of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22).

Notices for the guidance of voters U.K.

30.—(1) The GLRO must prepare and provide each CRO with the notices to be exhibited under rule 29(8).

(2) The GLRO may also provide each CRO with versions of the notices in such other form as he thinks appropriate, in accordance with section 199B (translations etc of certain documents) of the 1983 Act.

(3) Notices for the guidance of voters exhibited under rule 29(8) or paragraph (2) must be in the appropriate form, but may include such alternative information relating to Authority elections as—

(a) meets with the requirements of the Notices Schedule, and

(b) the GLRO may decide.

(4) Notices provided under paragraph (2) may, if the CRO agrees, be exhibited at any polling station—

(a) outside the polling station,

(b) inside the polling station—

(i) in the communal areas,

(ii) in every voting compartment.

(5) Where the CRO does not discharge the functions specified in regulation 5 of the Combination of Polls Regulations, references in this rule to the CRO should be read as references to the returning officer who does discharge those functions.

Appointment of polling and counting agents U.K.

31.—(1) Before the commencement of the poll—

(a) each individual candidate, and

(b) the election agent of each list candidate,

may appoint—

(i) polling agents to attend at polling stations for the purpose of detecting personation, and

(ii) counting agents to attend at the local count.

(2) The same person may be appointed as a polling agent or counting agent by, or in the case of list candidates on behalf of, more than one candidate.

(3) For each local count, one (but no more than one) counting agent of each registered party standing nominated or individual candidate, as the case may be, may be authorised by the terms of his appointment to require a re-count at that count.

(4) Not more than four polling agents, or such greater number as the CRO may by notice allow, may be permitted to attend at any particular polling station.

(5) If the number of such agents appointed to attend at a particular polling station exceeds that number, the CRO must determine by lot which agents are permitted to attend, and only the agents on whom the lot falls will be deemed to have been duly appointed.

(6) The CRO may limit the number of counting agents, but in doing so must ensure that—

(a) the number is the same in the case of each candidate, and

(b) the number allowed to a candidate must not (except in special circumstances) be less than the number obtained by dividing the number of clerks employed on the counting by the number of candidates.

(7) For the purposes of the calculations required by paragraph (6)–

(a) a counting agent appointed for more than one list candidate must be deemed to be appointed for all the candidates on that list,

(b) a counting agent appointed for more than one candidate (other than a list candidate) is a separate agent for each of the candidates for whom he has been appointed.

(8) Notice in writing of the appointment of polling and counting agents, stating the names and addresses of the persons appointed, must be given by the candidate to the CRO and must be so given not later than the fifth day (computed in accordance with rule 4) before the day of the poll.

(9) If an agent dies, or becomes incapable of acting, the candidate or, as the case may be, the election agent, may appoint another person in his place, and must forthwith give to the CRO notice in writing of the name and address of that other person.

(10) Any appointment authorised by this rule may be made and the notice of appointment given to the CRO by the candidate's election agent, instead of by the candidate.

(11) In the following provisions of these Rules references to polling agents and counting agents must be taken as references to agents—

(a) whose appointments have been duly made and notified, and

(b) where the number of agents is restricted, who are within the permitted numbers.

(12) Any notice required to be given to a counting agent by the CRO may be delivered at, or sent by post to, the address stated in the notice of appointment.

(13) A candidate may himself do any act or thing which any polling or counting agent of his, if appointed, would have been authorised to do, or may assist his agent in doing any such act or thing.

(14) A candidate's election agent may do or assist in doing anything which a polling or counting agent of his is authorised to do; and anything required or authorised by these Rules to be done in the presence of the polling or counting agent may be done in the presence of a candidate's election agent instead of his polling agent or counting agent.

(15) Where by these Rules any act or thing is required or authorised to be done in the presence of the polling or counting agents, the non-attendance of any agent or agents at the time and place appointed for the purpose will not, if the act or thing is otherwise duly done, invalidate the act or thing done.

(16) Where the CRO does not discharge the functions specified in regulation 5 of the Combination of Polls Regulations, then notices of the appointment of polling agents and counting agents which are required by this rule to be given to the CRO shall be given to the returning officer who discharges those functions.

Notification of requirement of secrecy U.K.

32.— [F97 (1)]  The CRO must make such arrangements as he thinks fit to ensure that—

(a) every person attending at a polling station (otherwise than for the purpose of voting or assisting a voter with disabilities to vote or as a constable on duty there) has been given a copy of the provisions of subsections (1), (3) and (6) of section 66 (requirement of secrecy) of the Representation of the People Act 1983 M80 , and

(b) every person attending at the counting of the votes (other than any constable on duty at the counting) has been given a copy of the provisions of subsections (2) and (6) of that section.

[F98 (2) In paragraph (1) a reference to a constable includes a person designated as a community support officer under section 38 of the 2002 Act (police powers for employees).]

Textual Amendments

F97 Sch. 6 rule 32 renumbered as Sch. 6 rule 32(1) (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 5(6)(a)

F98 Sch. 6 rule 32(2) inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 5(6)(a)

Marginal Citations

M80 1983 c. 2; Section 66 of that Act was amended by the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c. 22).

Return of postal ballot papers U.K.

33.—(1) Where—

(a) a postal vote has been returned in respect of a person who is entered on the postal voters list, or

(b) a proxy postal vote has been returned in respect of a proxy who is entered on the proxy postal voters list,

the CRO must mark the list in the manner prescribed by regulations made under the 1983 Act M81 .

(2) Rule 50(5) does not apply for the purpose of determining whether, for the purposes of this rule, a postal vote or a proxy postal vote is returned.

Marginal Citations

M81 1983 c. 2; Regulation 84A of the Representation of the People (England and Wales) Regulations 2001 S.I. 2001/341 as amended by S.I. 2006/2910 provides the circumstances in which a postal vote should be treated as returned for this purpose.

Admission to polling station U.K.

34.—(1) The presiding officer must exclude all persons from the polling station except—

(a) voters,

(b) persons under the age of 18 who accompany voters to the polling station,

(c) the candidates and their election agents,

(d) the polling agents appointed to attend at the polling station,

(e) the clerks appointed to attend at the polling station,

(f) persons who are entitled to attend by virtue of any of sections 6A to 6D of the 2000 Act,

(g) the constables on duty,

(h) the companions of voters with disabilities, and

(i) persons entitled to be admitted to the polling station at a relevant election or referendum.

(2) The presiding officer must regulate the total number of voters and persons under the age of 18 who accompany them to be admitted to the polling station at the same time.

(3) Not more than one polling agent may be admitted at the same time to a polling station on behalf of the same party or individual candidate.

(4) A constable or person employed by the CRO must not be admitted to vote in person elsewhere than at his own polling station allotted to him under these Rules, except on production and surrender of a certificate as to his employment which must be in the appropriate form and signed by an officer of the police of or above the rank of inspector or by the CRO, as the case may be.

(5) Any certificate surrendered under this rule must forthwith be cancelled.

[F99 (6) In this rule a reference to a constable includes a person designated as a community support officer under section 38 of the 2002 Act.]

Textual Amendments

F99 Sch. 6 rule 34(6) inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 5(6)(b)

Keeping of order in station U.K.

35.—(1) It is the presiding officer's duty to keep order at his polling station.

(2) If a person misconducts himself in a polling station, or fails to obey the presiding officer's lawful orders, he may immediately, by the presiding officer's order, be removed from the polling station—

(a) by a constable in or near that station, or

(b) by any other person authorised in writing by the CRO to remove him,

and the person so removed must not, without the presiding officer's permission, again enter the polling station during the day.

(3) Any person so removed may, if charged with the commission in the polling station of an offence, be dealt with as a person taken into custody by a constable for an offence without a warrant.

(4) The powers conferred by this rule must not be exercised so as to prevent a voter who is otherwise entitled to vote at a polling station from having an opportunity of voting at that station.

Sealing of ballot boxes U.K.

36.  Immediately before the commencement of the poll, the presiding officer must—

(a) show each ballot box, empty, to such persons, if any, as are present in the polling station, so that they may see that the boxes are empty,

(b) lock up such of the boxes as have locks,

(c) place his seal—

(i) on each lock, and

(ii) on each ballot box which has no lock,

in such a manner as to prevent its being opened without breaking the seal,

(d) place each box in his view for the receipt of ballot papers, and

(e) keep each box locked and sealed or, as the case may be, sealed.

Questions to be put to voters U.K.

37.—(1) At the time of the application (but not afterwards), the questions specified in the second column of the following table—

(a) may be put by the presiding officer to a person who is mentioned in the first column, and

(b) must be put if the letter “R” appears after the question and the candidate or his election or polling agent requires the question to be put.

Q. No.	Person applying for ballot paper	Question
1	A person applying as an elector	(a)—Are you the person registered in the register of local government electors for this election as follows (read the whole entry from the register)? [R] (b)—Have you already voted, here or elsewhere in Greater London at this election for London members, otherwise than as proxy for some other person? [R]
2	A person applying as proxy	(a)—Are you the person whose name appears as A.B. in the list of proxies for this election as entitled to vote as proxy on behalf of C.D.? [R] (b)—Have you already voted here or elsewhere in Greater London at this election for London members, as proxy on behalf of C.D.? [R] (c)—Are you the spouse, civil partner, parent, grandparent, brother, sister, child or grandchild of C.D.? [R]
3	A person applying as proxy for an elector with an anonymous entry (instead of the questions at entry 2)	(a)—Are you the person entitled to vote as proxy on behalf of the elector whose number on the register of electors is (read out the number)? [R] (b)—Have you already voted here or elsewhere in Greater London as proxy on behalf of the elector whose number on the register of electors is (read out the number)? [R] (c)—Are you the spouse, civil partner, parent, grandparent, brother, sister, child or grandchild of the person whose number on the register of electors is (read out the number)?[R]
4	A person applying as proxy if the question at entry 2(c) or 3(c) is not answered in the affirmative	Have you already voted here or elsewhere in Greater London at this election for London members, on behalf of two persons of whom you are not the spouse, civil partner, parent, grandparent, brother, sister, child or grandchild? [R]
5	A person applying as an elector in relation to whom there is an entry in the postal voters list	(a)—Did you apply to vote by post? (b)—Why have you not voted by post?
6	A person applying as proxy who is named in the proxy postal voters list	(a)—Did you apply to vote by post as proxy? (b)—Why have you not voted by post as proxy?

(2) In the case of an elector in respect of whom a notice has been issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act, the references in the questions at entries 1(a) and 3(a), (b) and (c) to reading from the register must be taken as references to reading from the notice issued under those subsections.

(3) A ballot paper must not be delivered to any person required to answer any of the above questions unless he has answered each question satisfactorily.

(4) Except as authorised by this rule, no inquiry may be permitted as to the right of any person to vote.

Challenge of voter U.K.

38.  A person must not be prevented from voting because—

(a) a candidate or his election or polling agent declares that he has reasonable cause to believe that the person has committed an offence of personation, or

(b) the person is arrested on the grounds that he is suspected of committing or of being about to commit such an offence.

Voting procedure U.K.

39.—(1) A ballot paper must be delivered to a voter who applies for one, and immediately before delivery—

(a) the number and (unless paragraph (2) applies) name of the elector as stated in the copy of the register of electors must be called out,

(b) the number of the elector must be marked on the list mentioned in rule 29(3)(e) beside the number of the ballot paper to be issued to him,

(c) a mark must be placed in the register of electors against the number of the elector to note that a ballot paper has been applied for but without showing the particular ballot paper which may be delivered,

(d) in the case of a person applying for a ballot paper as proxy, a mark must also be placed against his name in the list of proxies.

(2) In the case of an elector who has an anonymous entry, he must show the presiding officer his official poll card and only his number may be called out in pursuance of paragraph (1)(a).

(3) In the case of an elector who is added to the register in pursuance of a notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act, paragraph (1) is modified as follows—

(a) in sub-paragraph (a), for “copy of the register of electors” substitute “copy of the notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act”,

(b) in sub-paragraph (c), for “in the register of electors” substitute “on the copy of the notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act”.

(4) The voter, on receiving the ballot paper, must forthwith proceed into one of the compartments in the polling station and there secretly mark his paper, and must then show to the presiding officer the back of the paper, so as to disclose the number and other unique identifying mark, and put the ballot paper into the ballot box in the presiding officer's presence, but so as to conceal his vote.

(5) The voter must vote without undue delay, and must leave the polling station as soon as he has put his ballot paper into the ballot box.

(6) A voter who has had a ballot paper delivered to him under paragraph (1), but has decided not to mark it, may return it to the presiding officer and where the voter does so, the presiding officer must—

(a) immediately cancel the ballot paper, and for the purposes of these rules treat it as a spoilt ballot paper,

(b) place a mark beside the number of that ballot paper on the corresponding number list to show that the ballot paper has been cancelled.

(7) The same copy of—

(a) the list of proxies,

(b) the register of electors,

(c) any notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act (marked in the case of an elector who is added to the register in pursuance of such a notice),

may be used for the election and each relevant election and referendum and one mark may be placed in the list, register or notice (as the case may be) to denote that a ballot paper has been delivered in respect of each election and referendum; except that, where a ballot paper has not been issued in respect of any election or referendum, a different mark must be placed in the list, register or notice so as to identify the election or referendum in respect of which a ballot paper was issued.

(8) At an ordinary election, the same copy of the list mentioned in rule 29(3)(e), may be used for each Authority election and one mark may be placed in the list, to denote that a ballot paper has been delivered in respect of each Authority election; except that, where a ballot paper has not been issued in respect of any Authority election, a different mark must be placed in the list, so as to identify the elections in respect of which a ballot paper was issued.

[F100 (9) A voter who at the close of the poll is in the polling station, or in a queue outside the polling station, for the purpose of voting must (despite the close of the poll) be entitled to apply for a ballot paper under paragraph (1); and these rules apply in relation to such a voter accordingly.]

Textual Amendments

F100 Sch. 6 rule 39(9) inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 9(5)(a)

Votes marked by presiding officer U.K.

40.—(1) The presiding officer, on the application of a voter—

(a) who is incapacitated by blindness or other disability from voting in the manner directed by these Rules, or

(b) who declares orally that he is unable to read,

must, in the presence of the polling agents, cause the voter's vote to be marked on a ballot paper in the manner directed by the voter, and the ballot paper to be placed in the ballot box.

(2) The name and number on the register of electors of every voter whose vote is marked in pursuance of this rule, and the reason why it is so marked, must be entered on a list (in these Rules called “the list of votes marked by the presiding officer”). In the case of a person voting as proxy for an elector, the number to be entered together with the voter's name must be the elector's number.

(3) In the case of a person in respect of whom a notice has been issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act M82 , paragraph (2) applies as if for “on the register of electors of every voter” there were substituted “relating to every voter in respect of whom a notice has been issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act”.

(4) The same list may be used for each relevant election or referendum, and where it is so used, an entry in that list must be taken to mean that the ballot papers were so marked in respect of each election or referendum, unless the list identifies the election or referendum at which the ballot paper was so marked.

Marginal Citations

M82 Section 13B of the 1983 Act was inserted by paragraph 3 of Schedule 2 to the Representation of the People Act 2000 (c.2) and amended by section 11(3) of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22). Subsections (3B) and (3D) of section 13B were inserted by section 11(4) of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22).

Voting by persons with disabilities U.K.

41.—(1) If a voter makes an application to the presiding officer to be allowed, on the ground of–

(a) blindness or other disability, or

(b) inability to read,

to vote with the assistance of another person by whom he is accompanied (in these Rules referred to as “the companion”), the presiding officer must require the voter to declare, orally or in writing, whether he is so incapacitated by his blindness or other disability, or by his inability to read, as to be unable to vote without assistance.

(2) If the presiding officer—

(a) is satisfied that the voter is so incapacitated, and

(b) is also satisfied by a written declaration made by the companion (in these Rules referred to as “the declaration made by the companion of a voter with disabilities”) that the companion—

(i) is a qualified person within the meaning of these Rules, and

(ii) has not previously assisted more than one voter with disabilities to vote at the election,

the presiding officer must grant the application, and then anything which is by these Rules required to be done to, or by that voter in connection with the giving of his vote may be done to, or with the assistance of, the companion.

(3) For the purpose of these Rules, a person is a voter with disabilities if he has made such a declaration as is mentioned in paragraph (1) above, and a person may be qualified to assist a voter with disabilities to vote if that person–

(a) is a person who is entitled to vote as an elector at the election, or

(b) is the father, mother, brother, sister, spouse, civil partner, son or daughter of the voter and has attained the age of 18 years.

(4) The name and number in the register of electors of every voter whose vote is given in accordance with this rule and the name and address of the companion must be entered on a list (in these Rules referred to as the “list of voters with disabilities assisted by companions”). In the case of a person voting as proxy for an elector, the number to be entered together with the voter's name must be the elector's number.

(5) In the case of a person in respect of whom a notice has been issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act, paragraph (4) applies as if for “in the register of electors of every voter” there were substituted “relating to every voter in respect of whom a notice has been issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act”.

(6) The declaration made by the companion—

(a) must be in the appropriate form,

(b) must be made before the presiding officer at the time when the voter applies to vote with the assistance of a companion, and

(c) must forthwith be given to the presiding officer who must attest and retain it.

(7) No fee or other payment may be charged in respect of the declaration.

(8) The same list of voters with disabilities assisted by companions may be used for each relevant election or referendum, and where it is so used, an entry in that list must be taken to mean that the votes were so given in respect of each election or referendum, unless the list identifies the election or referendum for which the vote was so given.

Tendered ballot papers: circumstances where available U.K.

42.—(1) If a person, representing himself to be—

(a) a particular elector named in the register and not named in the absent voters list, or

(b) a particular person named in the list of proxies as proxy for an elector and not entitled to vote by post as proxy,

applies for a ballot paper after another person has voted in person either as the elector or his proxy, the applicant must, on satisfactorily answering the questions permitted by law to be asked at the poll, be entitled, subject to the following provisions of this rule and rule 43, to mark a ballot paper (in these Rules referred to as “a tendered ballot paper”) in the same manner as any other voter.

(2) Paragraph (4) applies if—

(a) a person applies for a ballot paper representing himself to be a particular elector named in the register,

(b) he is also named in the postal voters list, and

(c) he claims that he did not make an application to vote by post at the election.

(3) Paragraph (4) also applies if—

(a) a person applies for a ballot paper representing himself to be a particular person named as a proxy in the list of proxies,

(b) he is also named in the proxy postal voters list, and

(c) he claims that he did not make an application to vote by post as proxy.

(4) The person must, on satisfactorily answering the questions permitted by law to be asked at the poll, be entitled, subject to the following provisions of this rule and rule 43, to mark a ballot paper (in these Rules referred to as a “tendered ballot paper”) in the same manner as any other voter.

(5) Paragraph (6) applies if before the close of the poll but after the last time at which a person may apply for a replacement postal ballot paper, a person represents himself to be—

(a) a particular elector named in the register who is also named in the postal voters list, or

(b) a particular person named as a proxy in the list of proxies and who is also named in the proxy postal voters list,

and claims that he has lost or has not received his postal ballot paper.

(6) The person must, on satisfactorily answering the questions permitted by law to be asked at the poll, be entitled, subject to the provisions of this rule and rule 43, to mark a ballot paper (in these Rules referred to as a “tendered ballot paper”) in the same manner as any other voter.

Tendered ballot papers: general provisions U.K.

43.—(1) A tendered ballot paper must—

(a) be of a colour differing from the other ballot papers,

(b) instead of being put into the ballot box, be given to the presiding officer and endorsed by him with the name of the voter and his number on the register of electors, and set aside in a separate packet.

(2) The name of the voter and his number on the register of electors must be entered on a list (in these Rules referred to as the “tendered votes list”).

(3) In the case of a person voting as proxy for an elector, the number to be endorsed or entered together with the voter's name must be the number of that elector.

(4) In the case of an elector who has an anonymous entry, this rule and rule 42 apply subject to the following modifications—

(a) in paragraphs (1)(b) and (2) above, the references to the name of the voter must be ignored,

(b) otherwise, a reference to a person named on a register or list must be construed as a reference to a person whose number appears in the register or list (as the case may be).

(5) In the case of a person in respect of whom a notice has been issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act, this rule and rule 42 apply as if—

(a) in rule 42(1)(a), (2)(a) and (5)(a), for “named in the register” there were substituted “in respect of whom a notice under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act has been issued”,

(b) in paragraph (1)(b) of this rule for “his number in the register of electors” there were substituted “the number relating to him on a notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act”,

(c) in paragraph (2) of this rule, for “his number in the register of electors” there were substituted “the number relating to him on a notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act”.

(6) The same list may be used for each relevant election or referendum, and where it is so used, an entry in that list must be taken to mean that tendered ballot papers were marked in respect of each election or referendum, unless the list identifies the election or referendum at which a tendered ballot paper was marked.

Spoilt and replacement ballot papers U.K.

44.—(1) A voter who has inadvertently dealt with his ballot paper in such manner that it cannot be conveniently used as a ballot paper may, on delivering it to the presiding officer and proving to his satisfaction the fact of the inadvertence, obtain a replacement for the ballot paper so delivered (in these Rules referred to as “ a spoilt ballot paper”), and the spoilt ballot paper must be immediately cancelled.

(2) If a voter decides, after he has returned his ballot paper and it has been cancelled in accordance with rule 39(6), but before the close of the poll, that he wishes to vote in the election, he may obtain a replacement for the returned ballot paper.

(3) Before a replacement ballot paper is obtained, the presiding officer must mark the corresponding number list that was marked under rule 39(1) (the corresponding number list)—

(a) in the case of a ballot paper being replaced under paragraph (1) or (2), beside the number of the replacement ballot paper obtained to show—

(i) the number of the elector, and

(ii) the number of the ballot paper which is being replaced; and

(b) in the case of a ballot paper being replaced under paragraph (1), beside the number of the spoilt ballot paper to show that the ballot paper was replaced.

(4) Where the election is taken with a relevant election or referendum the voter must only receive a replacement for a spoilt or returned ballot paper.

(5) If the same corresponding number list is used for more than one Authority election in accordance with rule 39(8)—

(a) the marks made under paragraph (3) must identify the election for which a ballot paper has been replaced, and

(b) any ballot paper which the voter has not applied for or obtained as a replacement, but which bears the same ballot paper number as a ballot paper delivered under rule 39(1), or obtained under paragraph (1) or (2) of this rule—

(i) must not be delivered to the voter,

(ii) must be cancelled, and

(iii) for the purposes of these rules, must be treated as a spoilt ballot paper.

Correction of errors on day of poll U.K.

45.—(1) The presiding officer must keep a list of persons to whom ballot papers are delivered in consequence of an alteration to the register made by virtue of section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act which takes effect on the day of the poll.

(2) The same list may be used for each relevant election or referendum, and where it is so used, an entry in that list must be taken to mean that ballot papers were delivered in respect of each election or referendum, unless the list identifies the election or referendum at which a tendered ballot paper was marked.

Adjournment of poll in case of riot U.K.

46.—(1) Where the proceedings at any polling station are interrupted or obstructed by riot or open violence, the presiding officer must adjourn the proceedings till the following day and must forthwith give notice to the CRO.

(2) Where the poll is adjourned at any polling station–

(a) the hours of polling on the day to which it is adjourned must be the same as for the original day, and

(b) references in these Rules to the close of the poll must be construed accordingly.

(3) As soon as practicable after being informed of the adjournment of a poll, the CRO must inform the GLRO of that fact and of the cause of its adjournment.

(4) If the CRO does not discharge the functions specified in regulation 5 of the Combination of Polls Regulations, then references in this rule to the CRO must be read as references to the returning officer who discharges those functions.

Procedure on close of poll U.K.

47.—(1) As soon as practicable after the close of the poll, the presiding officer must, in the presence of the polling agents appointed for the purposes of the election and each relevant election or referendum, make up into separate packets, sealed with his own seal and the seals of such polling agents as desire to affix their seals—

(a) each ballot box in use at the station, sealed so as to prevent the introduction of additional ballot papers and unopened, but with the key attached,

(b) the unused and spoilt ballot papers placed together,

(c) the tendered ballot papers,

(d) the marked copies of the register of electors (including any marked copy notices issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act) and of the list of proxies,

(e) the list prepared under rule 19, including the part completed in accordance with rule 39(1)(b) (together referred to in these Rules as “the completed corresponding number list”),

(f) the certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll,

(g) the tendered votes list, the list of voters with disabilities assisted by companions, the list of votes marked by the presiding officer, a statement of the number of voters whose votes are so marked by the presiding officer under the heads “disability” and “unable to read”, the list maintained under rule 45, and the declarations made by the companions of voters with disabilities,

and must deliver the packets or cause them to be delivered to the CRO to be taken charge of by him; but if the packets are not delivered by the presiding officer personally to the CRO, the arrangements for their delivery must be approved by the CRO.

(2) The contents of the packets referred to in paragraph (1)(b), (c) and (f) must not be combined with the contents of the packets made under the corresponding rule that applies at any other relevant election or referendum except for an Authority election.

(3) The marked copies of the register of electors and of the list of proxies must be in one packet but must not be in the same packet as the completed corresponding number list or the certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll.

(4) The packets must be accompanied by a statement (“ballot paper account”) showing the number of ballot papers entrusted to the presiding officer, and accounting for them under the heads—

(a) ballot papers issued and not otherwise accounted for,

(b) unused ballot papers,

(c) spoilt ballot papers, and

(d) tendered ballot papers.

(5) The statement referred to in paragraph (4) may be combined with the statements produced in relation to any other Authority election, but not with those for a relevant election or referendum, and the combined statement must be arranged in such manner as the GLRO may direct.

(6) Where the CRO does not discharge the functions specified in regulation 5 of the Combination of Polls Regulations, references in paragraph (1) to the CRO must be taken as references to the returning officer who discharges those functions.

Attendance at verification and the counting of votes U.K.

48.—(1) Where the CRO discharges the functions specified in regulation 5 of the Combination of Polls Regulations, he must—

(a) make arrangements for —

(i) carrying out the functions in rule 50(1) (separating ballot papers and verifying ballot paper accounts) at the election in the presence of the counting agents appointed for the purposes of the election and each relevant election and referendum as soon as practicable after the close of the poll, and

(ii) for counting the votes in the presence of the counting agents appointed for the purposes of the election,

(b) give to the counting agents appointed for the purposes of the election and each relevant election and referendum, notice in writing of the time and place at which he will begin carrying out the functions in rule 50(1).

(2) Where the CRO does not discharge the functions specified in regulation 5 of the Combination of Polls Regulations he must make arrangements for counting the votes in the presence of the counting agents appointed for the purposes of the election as soon as practicable after the delivery of the ballot papers to him by the returning officer who does discharge those functions; and the CRO must give to the counting agents for the election notice in writing of the time and place at which he will begin to count the votes.

(3) No person other than a person entitled to be present at the counting of the votes at the election and at each relevant election or referendum may be present at the proceedings under rule 50(1) (separating ballot papers and verifying ballot paper accounts) unless permitted by the CRO to attend.

(4) No person other than—

(a) the CRO and his clerks and technical assistants,

(b) the GLRO,

(c) the candidates and one other person chosen by each of them,

(d) the election agents,

(e) the counting agents,

(f) persons who are entitled to attend by virtue of any of sections 6A to 6D of the 2000 Act,

may be present at the counting of the votes in accordance with rule 50(2) to (14), unless permitted by the CRO to attend

(5) A person not entitled to attend at the separation and verification or the counting of the votes must not be permitted to do so by the CRO unless the CRO—

(a) is satisfied that the efficient separation and verification of the ballot paper accounts or, as the case may be, the efficient counting of the votes will not be impeded, and

(b) has either consulted the candidates or thought it impracticable to do so.

(6) The CRO must give the counting agents all such reasonable facilities for overseeing the proceedings, and all such information with respect to them, as he can give them consistently with the orderly conduct of the proceedings and the discharge of his duties in connection with them.

Use of the electronic counting system U.K.

49.—(1) The GLRO may provide the CRO with an electronic counting system consisting of computer hardware, software and other equipment or services, for the purpose of counting the number of ballot papers, to verify the ballot paper accounts and to count the votes cast on them.

(2) Any verification of ballot paper accounts, count or re-count at the election conducted using the electronic counting system must be conducted in accordance with rule 50.

(3) If the GLRO has provided the CRO with an electronic counting system for use at the election, the CRO must obtain the prior written consent of the GLRO before he may conduct the verification of ballot paper accounts or count the votes manually.

(4) If the verification of ballot paper accounts, count or re-count has commenced using the electronic counting system but has not been completed, the CRO may, if he considers it appropriate, discontinue the count and instead count the votes manually.

(5) Where the count or a re-count has been conducted using the electronic counting system, the CRO may, if he considers it appropriate, conduct any re-count without using that system.

(6) Where verification or any count or re-count is conducted using the electronic counting system, any of the steps referred to rule 50, in so far as practicable, may be undertaken—

(a) concurrently with any other of those steps, or

(b) in a different order.

Verification and the local count U.K.

50.—(1) Where the CRO discharges the functions specified in regulation 5 of the Combination of Polls Regulations, he must—

(a) in the presence of the counting agents appointed for the purposes of the election and each relevant election or referendum, open each ballot box from each polling station together, and record separately the number of ballot papers used in the election and each relevant election or referendum with which is it is taken,

(b) in the presence of the counting agents appointed for the purposes of the election and each relevant election or referendum, verify each ballot paper account at the election and for each relevant election or referendum,

(c) count such of the postal ballot papers as have been duly returned and record separately the number counted at the election and each relevant election or referendum,

(d) where the same ballot boxes have been used for the election and each relevant election or referendum, separate the ballot papers for all of the Authority elections from those for any other relevant election or referendum.

(e) make up into packets the ballot papers for each relevant election or referendum (not including those for any Authority election) and seal them up in separate containers endorsing on each a description of the area to which the ballot papers relate,

(f) deliver or cause to be delivered to the returning officer for the relevant election or referendum to which the ballot papers relate—

(i) those containers, together with a list of them and of the contents of each, and

(ii) the ballot paper accounts together with a copy of the statement as to the result of their verification in respect of that relevant election or referendum, and

(g) at the same time deliver to that officer the packets that so relate containing–

(i) the unused and spoilt ballot papers,

(ii) the tendered ballot papers, and

(iii) the completed corresponding number lists of the used ballot papers and the certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll.

(2) Where the CRO does not discharge the functions specified in regulation 5 of the Combination of Polls Regulations, and the votes on the ballot papers are not to be counted concurrently with the votes on the ballot papers at a relevant election or referendum, he must—

(a) on receipt of the containers of ballot papers from the returning officer who does discharge those functions, and after the time specified in the notice given by him in writing to the counting agents under rule 48(2), open each container in the presence of the counting agents;

(b) where the proceedings on the issue and receipt of postal ballot papers at the election are not taken together with those proceedings at a relevant election or referendum under regulation 65 of the Representation of the People (England and Wales) Regulations 2001 M83 , or under that regulation as applied by regulations made under sections 44 and 105, or 45 and 105, of the Local Government Act 2000 M84 , count such of the postal ballot papers as have been duly returned and record the number counted,

and paragraph (10) below does not apply to these proceedings.

(3) Where separate ballot boxes are used for the ballots at the election and each relevant election and referendum, no vote for any candidate shall be rendered invalid by the ballot paper being placed in the ballot box used at any relevant election or referendum.

(4) Where the same ballot boxes are used for the election and other Authority elections, but not for other relevant elections or referendums—

(a) the CRO must not mix the ballot papers for Authority elections from any ballot box or container with the contents of any other ballot box or container (including a postal ballot box) during the conduct of verification (where this occurs under paragraph (1)), the count or any re-count;

(b) the ballot boxes from each polling station for the Authority elections shall be opened together and the ballot papers counted (but not necessarily the votes on them) and verified together.

(5) A postal ballot paper must not be taken to be duly returned unless—

(a) it is returned in the manner set out in paragraph (6) and reaches the CRO or any polling station in the appropriate area (as defined in paragraph (7)) F101 ... before the close of the poll,

(b) the postal voting statement, duly signed, is also returned in the manner set out in paragraph (6) and reaches him or such polling station before that time,

(c) the postal voting statement also states the date of birth of the elector or proxy (as the case may be), and

(d) in a case where the steps for verifying the date of birth and signature of an elector or proxy have been prescribed by regulations made under the 1983 Act M85 , the CRO (having taken such steps) verifies the date of birth and signature of the elector or proxy (as the case may be).

(6) The manner in which any postal paper or postal voting statement may be returned—

(a) to the CRO, is by hand or by post,

(b) to a polling station in the appropriate area, is by hand.

[F102 (6A) A postal ballot paper or postal voting statement that reaches the CRO or a polling station in the appropriate area at or after the close of the poll is treated for the purposes of paragraph (5) as reaching that officer or polling station before the close of the poll if it is delivered by a person who, at the close of the poll, is in the polling station, or in a queue outside the polling station, for the purpose of returning it.]

(7) For the purposes of paragraphs [F103 (5), (6) and (6A)], “polling station in the appropriate area” means a polling station—

(a) in the area which is common to the Assembly constituency, and parliamentary constituency, local counting area, electoral area or voting area, as the case may be, in which the polls at the Authority election and a relevant election or referendum are being taken together, and

(b) in respect of which polls the voter has been issued with a postal ballot paper.

(8) After completing the proceedings under paragraph (1) or (2), the CRO must cause the electronic counting system to process the ballot papers for the election so as to count—

(a) the number of ballot papers, and

(b) votes given on the ballot papers.

(9) The CRO must not cause the electronic counting system to count any tendered ballot paper.

(10) Subject to paragraph (11), the CRO must verify each ballot paper account by comparing it with the number of ballot papers recorded by him, and the unused and spoilt ballot papers in his possession and the tendered votes list (opening and resealing the packets containing the unused and spoilt ballot papers and the tendered votes list) and must draw up a statement as to the result of the verification, which any election agent may copy.

(11) The CRO may verify each ballot paper account for the election by comparing it with the number of ballot papers processed by the electronic counting system, and the unused and spoilt ballot papers in his possession and the tendered votes list (opening and resealing the packets containing the unused and spoilt ballot papers and the tendered votes list).

(12) The CRO, while verifying the ballot paper accounts and counting the votes, must take all proper precautions for preventing any person from seeing the numbers and unique identifying marks printed on the back of the papers.

(13) The CRO must so far as practicable proceed continuously with counting the votes, allowing only time for refreshment, except that the hours between 5 in the afternoon and 10 on the following morning may be excluded with the prior consent of the GLRO.

(14) During the time so excluded the CRO must—

(a) place the ballot papers and other documents relating to the election under his own seal and the seals of such of the counting agents as desire to affix their seals, and

(b) otherwise take proper precautions for the security of the papers and documents.

Textual Amendments

F101 Words in Sch. 6 rule 50(5)(a) omitted (8.2.2016) by virtue of The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 9(5)(b)(i)

F102 Sch. 6 rule 50(6A) inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 9(5)(b)(ii)

F103 Words in Sch. 6 rule 50(7) substituted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 9(5)(b)(iii)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C10 Sch. 6 para. 50(2)(b) modified (3.8.2012) by The Neighbourhood Planning (Referendums) Regulations 2012 (S.I. 2012/2031), regs. 1, 8, 12, 13, Sch. 4 para. 28(c)

Marginal Citations

M83 S.I. 2001/341.

M84 c. 22. Sections 44 and 45 were amended by the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 (c. 41) and section 105 was amended by section 105 of the Local Government Act 2003 (c. 26).

M85 See regulation 85 and 85A of the Representation of the People (England and Wales) Regulations 2001 (S.I. 2001/341), which were inserted by S.I. 2006/2910.

Rejected ballot papers U.K.

51.—(1) Any ballot paper—

(a) which does not bear the official mark,

(b) on which votes are given for more than one party or individual candidate,

(c) on which anything is written or marked by which the voter can be identified except the printed number and other unique identifying mark on the back,

(d) which is unmarked, or

(e) which is void for uncertainty,

is, subject to paragraph (2), void and must not be counted.

(2) A ballot paper on which the vote is marked—

(a) elsewhere than in the proper place, or

(b) otherwise than by means of a cross, or

(c) by more than one mark,

must not for such reason be void if an intention that the vote be given for one only of the party or individual candidates clearly appears, and the way the paper is marked does not itself identify the voter and it is not shown that he can be identified by it.

(3) Where the electronic counting system identifies a ballot paper that has been marked, but which appears for whatever reason to be void, it must be examined by a clerk appointed by the CRO in the manner referred to in paragraph (6).

(4) If the clerk, having examined the ballot, considers that the vote is void then the CRO must examine it in the manner referred to in paragraph (6).

(5) After the CRO examines the ballot paper, he must give his decision as to the validity of the vote.

(6) An examination under paragraph (3) or (4) is to be made by the clerk or CRO examining an image of the ballot paper which is shown on a screen so as to be visible to those attending the count.

(7) The CRO may examine any ballot paper that he is not required to examine in accordance with paragraph (4)—

(a) either in the manner referred to in paragraph (6), or

(b) by examining a paper copy,

and where the CRO does so, he must give a decision on that paper in accordance with paragraph (5).

(8) No person attending the count is to be entitled to require the clerk or CRO to examine a ballot paper or to provide a paper copy for inspection.

(9) A record of the CRO's decision must be retained in the electronic counting system together with, in the case of a decision that the ballot paper is void, his reasons by reference to paragraph (1).

(10) Where a counting agent objects to the CRO's decision the CRO must record on the electronic counting system that the decision was objected to.

(11) The CRO must draw up a statement showing the number of ballot papers rejected under the several heads of—

(a) want of an official mark,

(b) voting for more than one party or individual candidate,

(c) writing or mark by which the voter could be identified,

(d) unmarked ballot paper, or

(e) void for uncertainty.

(12) As soon as practicable after the completion of the statement under paragraph (11) the CRO must inform—

(a) such candidates, election agents and counting agents as are present at the count, and

(b) the GLRO,

of its contents.

Decision on ballot papers U.K.

52.  The decision of the CRO on any question arising in respect of a ballot paper is final, but may be subject to review on an election petition.

Re-count U.K.

53.—(1) A candidate or his election agent (including, in the case of a list candidate, the election agent for that list) or a counting agent authorised under rule 31(3) may, if present when the counting or any re-count of the votes is completed, require the CRO to have the votes re-counted or again re-counted but the CRO may refuse to do so if in his opinion the request is unreasonable.

(2) No step may be taken on the completion of the counting or any re-count of votes until the candidates and election agents and counting agents authorised under rule 31(1) present at its completion have been given a reasonable opportunity to exercise the right conferred by this rule.

(3) The CRO may determine the extent to which any re-count involves the electronic counting of votes.

(4) When the returning officer uses the electronic counting system for the re-counting of votes, he must not re-consider any decision made on any ballot paper under rule 51(5).

Procedure at conclusion of local count U.K.

54.—(1) As soon as practicable after the conclusion of the local count (including any re-count), the CRO must draw up a statement showing—

(a) the total number of votes cast,

(b) the total number of votes rejected under rule 51,

(c) the number of votes given for each registered party, and

(d) the number of votes cast for each individual candidate.

(2) As soon as practicable after the statement is drawn up under paragraph (1), the CRO must inform the GLRO of its contents, and if it is practicable to do so, must also provide that information so as to show the total number of votes under each of those heads in each ward.

(3) Where practicable, the CRO must provide the information in the statement under paragraph (1) to the GLRO so as to show and the number of rejected ballot papers in each ward.

(4) As soon as practicable after the GLRO has authorised him to do so, the CRO must—

(a) inform such of the candidates and their election agents as are then present of the content of the statements prepared in accordance with rule 51 and paragraph (1) of this rule, and

(b) give public notice of the contents of those statements.

Attendance at allocation of seats U.K.

55.—(1) The GLRO must make arrangements for making the allocation of seats in the presence of the election agents of the individual candidates (including, in the case of a list candidate, the election agent for that list); and he must give to those agents notice in writing of the time and place at which he will begin the allocation.

(2) No person other than—

(a) the GLRO and his clerks,

(b) the CROs and a clerk or technical assistant chosen by each of them,

(c) the individual candidates and one person chosen by each of them,

(d) candidates included on a party list and one person chosen by each of them,

(e) the election agents,

(f) the nominating officers of those registered parties standing nominated at the election,

(g) persons who are entitled to attend by virtue of any of sections 6A to 6D of the 2000 Act,

(h) persons permitted to be present at the central calculation at the election of the Mayor of London,

may be present at an allocation, unless permitted by the GLRO to attend.

(3) A person not entitled to attend an allocation must not be permitted to do so by the GLRO unless the GLRO—

(a) is satisfied that the efficiency of the allocation will not be impeded, and

(b) has either consulted the election agents or thought it impracticable to do so.

The calculation U.K.

56.—(1) As soon as the GLRO has received from every CRO the information required by rule 54 he must calculate the London figure for each registered party and individual candidate.

(2) As soon as the GLRO has ascertained the result of the calculation, he must inform such of the election agents for the candidates as are then present of the relevant figures and must give them a reasonable opportunity to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the calculation.

(3) Where information of the description mentioned in paragraph (4)(e) is given in accordance with paragraph (2), the GLRO must provide the persons to whom it was given with a statement containing—

(a) the names of the persons concerned, and

(b) with respect to each such person, the name of the party from whose list his name has been omitted or treated as omitted, and the reason therefor.

(4) In this rule, “the relevant figures” means—

(a) the number of London votes given in the Assembly constituencies for each registered party and individual candidate at that election,

(b) in respect of each party, the number of successful candidates to be constituency members, who were the subject of that party's authorisation under rule 6(5) or 6(7) of the Constituency Members Election Rules,

(c) the calculation of the London figure,

(d) any recalculation required by paragraph 8(3), or carried out in the circumstances mentioned in paragraph 8(8), of Schedule 2 to the 1999 Act, and

(e) the number of persons whose names have been omitted from, or (pursuant to paragraph 8(10) of Schedule 2 to the 1999 Act) who are to be treated as ceasing to be on, a party list.

(5) Paragraph (6) applies where the GLRO is notified under rule 54(5) of the Constituency Members Election Rules that a candidate who is returned as a constituency member is the candidate with a description authorised under rule 6(7)(a) of those Rules (a using a description registered by more than one party).

(6) Where this paragraph applies, the GLRO must, in calculating the London figure of each registered party whose nominating officer issued a certificate to which rule 6(7)(a) of the Constituency Members Election Rules refers, include that candidate as a candidate of that party; and in doing so must disregard the fact that for the purposes of calculating the London figure of another registered party, the candidate is also included as the candidate of that other registered party.

PART 5 U.K. Final Proceedings In Contested And Uncontested Elections

Declaration of result U.K.

57.—(1) The GLRO must declare the allocation of the seats for London members and, where seats are allocated to a registered party, the names of the persons on the party list who, in accordance with paragraph 8(5) of Schedule 2 to the 1999 Act, are to fill those seats.

(2) The GLRO must give public notice of—

(a) the registered parties to which seats for London members have been allocated and the names of the list candidates by whom those seats are to be filled,

(b) the names of the successful individual candidates,

(c) the total number of London votes given for each registered party and individual candidate,

(d) the total number of candidates of registered parties returned as constituency members,

(e) the number of rejected ballot papers under each head shown in the statement of rejected ballot papers,

(f) the name of every person included on a party list who has been omitted from, or (pursuant to paragraph 8(10) of Schedule 2 to the 1999 Act) is to be treated as ceasing to be on, that list, together with the reason for the omission or cessation, as the case may be.

(3) Subject to paragraph (4), after the GLRO complies with paragraphs (1) and (2), he may give public notice of the information referred to paragraph (2)(c) and (e) so as to set out the number of votes falling under each of those heads, in respect of each ward.

(4) Where the sum of F104 ... votes given for all registered parties and individual candidates in any ward does not exceed 500, the GLRO must not give notice under paragraph (3) in respect of that ward alone, but must amalgamate the figures for that ward with those for any other ward in which more than 500 votes have been given, in the same Assembly constituency.

Textual Amendments

F104 Words in Sch. 6 rule 57(4) omitted (1.3.2012) by virtue of The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2012 (S.I. 2012/198), rules 1(1), 4(1)

Return or forfeiture of candidate's deposit U.K.

58.—(1) Unless forfeited in accordance with paragraph (5), the deposit made under rule 10 must be returned to the person making it or his personal representative.

(2) Subject to paragraph (4), the deposit must be returned not later than the next day after that on which the result of the election is declared.

(3) For the purposes of paragraph (2)—

(a) a day must be disregarded if, in accordance with rule 4, it would be disregarded in computing any period of time for the purposes of the timetable for the election, and

(b) the deposit will be treated as being returned on a day if a cheque for the amount of the deposit is posted on that day.

(4) If the individual candidate or registered party is not shown as standing nominated in the statement of persons nominated, or if proof has been given to the GLRO before the allocation of seats of the death of an individual candidate, then the deposit must be returned as soon as practicable after the publication of the statement or after the individual candidate's death, as the case may be.

(5) Where a poll is taken, if, after the declaration under rule 57, a candidate or registered party is found not to have polled more than one-fortieth of the total number of votes polled by all the candidates and registered parties, the deposit must be forfeited to the Greater London Authority.

PART 6 U.K. Disposal Of Documents

Sealing up of ballot papers U.K.

59.—(1) On the completion of the counting at a contested election the CRO must seal up in separate packets the counted and rejected ballot papers.

(2) Where some or all of the votes have been counted using the electronic counting system, the CRO must also seal up in a separate packet a complete electronic record (“the electronic record”) of the information stored in the electronic counting system, held in such device as may be suitable for the purpose of its storage.

(3) After making the electronic record under paragraph (2), the CRO must arrange for the original records in the electronic counting system to be removed from it and destroyed in a manner that ensures that the secrecy of those records is preserved.

(4) The CRO must not open the sealed packets of—

(a) tendered ballot papers, or

(b) certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll.

(5) Where the CRO discharges the functions referred to in regulation 5 of the Combination of Polls Regulations, he must also not open the sealed packets of—

(a) the completed corresponding number lists,

(b) marked copies of the register of electors (including any marked copy notices issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act) and lists of proxies.

Delivery and retention of documents U.K.

60.—(1) The CRO must then forward the following documents to the relevant registration officer—

(a) the packets of ballot papers in his possession,

(b) the packet containing the electronic record (if any),

(c) the ballot paper accounts and the statements of rejected ballot papers and of the result of the verification of the ballot paper accounts,

(d) the tendered votes lists, the lists of voters with disabilities assisted by companions, the lists of votes marked by the presiding officer and the related statements, the lists maintained under rule 45 and the declarations made by the companions of voters with disabilities,

(e) the packets of the completed corresponding number lists,

(f) the packets of certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll, and

(g) the packets containing marked copies of registers (including any marked copy notices issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act) and of the postal voters list, of the lists of proxies and of the proxy postal voters list,

endorsing on each packet a description of its contents, the date of the election to which they relate and the name of the Assembly constituency for which the election was held.

(2) At an election where the returning officer does not discharge the functions referred to in regulation 5 of the Combination of Polls Regulations, paragraph (1) must have effect as if sub paragraphs (d), (e) and (f) were omitted.

Orders for production of documents U.K.

61.—(1) An order—

(a) for the inspection or production of any rejected ballot papers in the custody of the relevant registration officer, or

(b) for the opening of a packet containing the electronic record or a sealed packet of completed corresponding number lists or certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll or the inspection of any counted ballot papers in the custody of the relevant registration officer,

may be made by a county court, if the court is satisfied by evidence on oath that the order is required for the purpose of instituting or maintaining a prosecution for an offence in relation to ballot papers, or for the purpose of an election petition.

(2) An election court may make an order for the opening of a packet containing the electronic record or a sealed packet of completed corresponding number lists or certificates or for the inspection of any counted ballot papers in the custody of the relevant registration officer.

(3) An order under this rule may be made subject to such conditions as to—

(a) persons,

(b) time,

(c) place and mode of inspection,

(d) production or opening,

as the court making the order thinks expedient; but in making and carrying into effect an order for the opening of a packet containing the electronic record or a packet of completed corresponding number lists or certificates or for the inspection of counted ballot papers, care must be taken that the way in which the vote of any particular elector has been given must not be disclosed until it has been proved—

(i) that his vote was given, and

(ii) that the vote has been declared by a competent court to be invalid.

(4) An appeal lies to the High Court from any order of a county court under this rule.

(5) Any power given under this rule to a county court may be exercised by any judge of the court otherwise than in open court.

(6) Where an order is made for the production by the relevant registration officer of any document or electronic record in his custody relating to any specified election—

(a) the production by him or his agent of the document or electronic record ordered in such manner as may be directed by that order will be conclusive evidence that the document or electronic record relates to the specified election, and

(b) any endorsement on any packet of ballot papers so produced will be prima facie evidence that the ballot papers are what they are stated to be by the endorsement.

(7) The production from proper custody of —

(a) a ballot paper purporting to have been used at any election, or

(b) a copy of the electronic record which purports to record that a particular ballot paper was used at any election, and

a completed corresponding number list with a number written beside the number of the ballot paper, will be prima facie evidence that the elector whose vote was given by that ballot paper was the person who, at the time of the election, had affixed to his entry in the register of electors or on the notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act, the same number as was written on the completed corresponding number list.

(8) The Electoral Commission may require the production and opening of any sealed packet of ballot papers and of any sealed packet containing an electronic copy of information made pursuant to rule 59(2), but only—

(a) in connection with any review which they are conducting under section 6(2) of the 2000 Act, and

(b) if the request that they undertake that review includes a request that they examine ballot papers.

(9) In their review of any documents or records to which they have access by virtue of paragraph (8), the Electoral Commission must take care to ensure that the way in which a particular elector has given their vote is not ascertained.

(10) At the termination of their review, the Electoral Commission must reseal in their packets the documents and records produced under paragraph (8), return them to the relevant registration officer, and destroy any copies of those documents and records that have been made.

(11) Unless authorised by this rule, no person may be allowed to inspect any rejected or counted ballot papers in the custody of the relevant registration officer or open any sealed packets of completed corresponding number lists, certificates of employment on the day of the poll or containing the electronic record.

Retention and destruction of documents and records U.K.

62.  The relevant registration officer must retain or cause to be retained for one year all documents and, where applicable, the electronic record relating to an election forwarded to him in pursuance of these Rules by a CRO, and then, unless otherwise directed by an order of a county court, a Crown Court, a magistrate's court or an election court, must cause them to be destroyed.

PART 7 U.K. List Candidates And The Filling Of Vacancies

Interpretation of Part 7 U.K.

63.  In this Part—

“dual candidate” means a person–

(a)

whose name, subject to rule 65, falls to be notified as mentioned in subsection (6) of section 11 of the 1999 Act, and

(b)

who is a candidate (otherwise than at an ordinary election) for election—

(i)

as the Mayor of London, or

(ii)

as a constituency member,

“nominating officer”, in relation to a registered party and a vacancy in the office of a London member, means the person who holds that office in the party at the time at which the vacancy arises; and

“paragraph (1) notice” has the meaning given by rule 65(1).

Removal from a party list on election as Mayor or as a constituency member U.K.

64.—(1) Where a person whose name is for the time being included in a party list is elected (otherwise than at an ordinary election)—

(a) as the Mayor of London, or

(b) as a constituency member,

his name must be removed from that list.

(2) For the purposes of this Part, the name of a person to whom paragraph (1) applies must be treated as ceasing to be included in the list from the date on which he is returned as the Mayor or a constituency member, as the case may be (even if his return is void).

(3) Where proof is given to the GLRO's satisfaction that a person whose name is for the time being included in a party list has died, then the GLRO must remove that person's name from that list.

Notification of vacancy U.K.

65.—(1) As soon as the office of a London member who was returned from a registered party's list becomes vacant, the GLRO must simultaneously give or send to—

(a) the party's nominating officer, and

(b) the person whose name would, in accordance with subsection (6) of section 11 of the 1999 Act (filling a vacancy among the London members) (and on the assumption that he satisfies the conditions in subsection (4)), be so notified,

written notice (“paragraph (1) notice”) of the matters specified in paragraph (2).

(2) The matters specified in this paragraph are–

(a) the vacancy,

(b) that the nominating officer may, by notice in writing delivered to the GLRO not later than one month after the date of the paragraph (1) notice, give the notice referred to in subsection (5)(b) of section 11 of the 1999 Act, and

(c) that the person must, by notice in writing delivered to the GLRO not later than one month after the date of the paragraph (1) notice, indicate whichever of the following apply to him—

(i) that he is willing to serve as a London member (“notice of willingness”),

(ii) that he is not willing to serve as a London member, and

(iii) that he is a dual candidate.

(3) The GLRO must not notify the Chair of the London Assembly as mentioned in section 11(3) of the 1999 Act until—

(a) the period mentioned in paragraph (2)(b) has elapsed, and

(b) he has received a notice of willingness, and

(c) if the person by whom notice of willingness has been given is a dual candidate, the result of the election for which he is a Mayoral or constituency member candidate has been declared.

Unwilling candidate or objection by registered party U.K.

66.  Where the GLRO receives a notice under rule 65(2)(c)(ii) or section 11(5)(b) of the 1999 Act he must again send a paragraph (1) notice, but with the substitution, for the name of the person to whom the first such notice was sent, of the name of the person who, on the same assumption, would be the next person whose name would be notified in accordance with section 11(6) of that Act; and so on until, in respect of such a person—

(a) no notice is given under section 11(5)(b) of that Act, and

(b) a notice of willingness has been received.

Acceptance of office and further notification U.K.

67.—(1) As soon as practicable after the GLRO has identified the person who is to fill the vacancy, he must invite him to attend at his office to sign the declaration of acceptance of office.

(2) In a case to which section 11(3) of the 1999 Act applies, as soon as practicable after the declaration of acceptance of office has been signed, the GLRO must notify the Chair of the London Assembly as mentioned in that subsection.

PART 8 U.K. Returns And Declarations As to Election Expenses

Declarations as to election expenses U.K.

68.—(1) Subject to paragraph (2), the form of the declaration required by section 82(1) of the 1983 Act (agent's declaration as to election expenses), in the circumstances mentioned in subsection (2A)(a) of that section, is that set out in part 1 of Form 20 of the Forms Schedule.

(2) In a case to which section 82(5A) of the 1983 Act applies, the declaration referred to in paragraph (1) must be modified as specified in part 2 of Form 20.

(3) Subject to paragraph (4), the form of the declaration required by section 82(2) of the 1983 Act (candidate's declaration as to election expenses), in the circumstances mentioned in subsection (2A)(b) of that section must be that set out in part 1 of the Form 21 of the Forms Schedule.

(4) In a case to which section 82(5A) of the 1983 Act applies, the declaration referred to in paragraph (3) must be modified as specified in part 2 of Form 21.

Rule 5(5)

SCHEDULE 7 U.K. THE MAYORAL ELECTION RULES

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C11 Sch. 7 applied (with modifications) (18.2.2012) by The Local Authorities (Conduct of Referendums) (Council Tax Increases) (England) Regulations 2012 (S.I. 2012/444), reg. 1, Sch. 4 para. 1 Table 11 (with reg. 27)

PART 1 U.K. General Provisions

Citation U.K.

1.  This Schedule may be cited as the Mayoral Election Rules.

Interpretation U.K.

2.—(1) In the rules in this Schedule, unless the context indicates otherwise—

“candidate” means a candidate to be the Mayor;

“Combination of Polls Regulations” means the Representation of the People (Combination of Polls) (England and Wales) Regulations 2004 M86 ;

“counting observer” has the same meaning as in regulation 2 of the Referendum Regulations;

“counting officer” has the same meaning as in regulation 9 of the Referendum Regulations;

“election” mean an election for the return of the Mayor;

“electoral area” where the Authority election is held together with a referendum, includes a voting area where the referendum is held;

“European Parliamentary election” has the same meaning as in section 27(1) of the Representation of the People Act 1985 M87 ;

“local authority mayoral election” means an election conducted under the Local Authorities (Mayoral Elections) (England and Wales) Regulations 2007 M88 ;

“local counting area” has the same meaning as in regulation 2(1) of the European Parliamentary Elections Regulations 2004 M89 ;

“petition organiser” has the same meaning as in regulation 3 of the Local Authorities (Referendums) (Petitions and Directions) (England) Regulations 2000 M90 ;

“polling observer” has the same meaning as in regulation 2 of the Referendum Regulations;

“referendum” means a referendum conducted under the Referendum Regulations;

“Referendum Regulations” means the Local Authorities (Conduct of Referendums) (England) Regulations 2007 M91 ;

“relevant election or referendum” means one or more of the following—

(a)

a Parliamentary election,

(b)

a European Parliamentary election,

(c)

a local government election (including another Authority election where more than one is taken together),

(d)

a local authority mayoral election or referendum in accordance with regulations made under sections 44 and 105, or 45 and 105, of the Local Government Act 2000 M92 ;

“voting area” has the same meaning as in regulation 2 of the Referendum Regulations.

(2) In the case of a referendum, a reference to a—

(a) “candidate” shall be construed as a reference to a counting observer,

(b) “election agent” shall be construed as a reference to a counting observer,

(c) “polling agent” shall be construed as a reference to polling observer,

(d) “returning officer” shall be construed as a reference to a counting officer.

(3) Reference to a rule by number alone is a reference to the rule so numbered in this Schedule.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C12 Sch. 7 para. 2 modified (3.8.2012) by The Neighbourhood Planning (Referendums) Regulations 2012 (S.I. 2012/2031), regs. 1, 8, 12, 13, Sch. 4 para. 29(a)(b)

Marginal Citations

M86 S.I 2004/294. Relevant amendments have been made to those regulations by S.I. 2006/3278.

M87 1985 c. 50. The definition was amended by section 3 of the European Communities (Amendment) Act 1986 (c. 58).

M88 SI 2007/1024

M89 S.I 2004/293

M90 S.I. 2000/2852

M91 S.I. 2007/2089

M92 2000 c.22. Sections 44 and 45 were amended by the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 (c. 41).

PART 2 U.K. Provisions As To Time

Timetable U.K.

3.  The proceedings at the election must be conducted in accordance with the following timetable:

Timetable

Proceedings	Time
Publication of notice of election	Not later than the thirtieth day before the day of election.
Delivery of nomination papers	Not later than [F105 4 in the afternoon] on the twenty-fourth day before the day of election.
[F106 Delivery of notices of withdrawals of candidature	Not later than 4 in the afternoon on the twenty-fourth day before the day of election]
Publication of statement as to persons nominated	Not later than [F107 4 in the afternoon] on the twenty-second day before the day of election.
F108 . . .	F108 . . .
Notice of poll	Not later than the sixth day before the day of election.
Polling	Between the hours of 7 in the morning and 10 at night on the day of election.

Textual Amendments

F105 Words in Sch. 7 rule 3 substituted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(13)(a)

F106 Words in Sch. 7 rule 3 inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(13)(b)

F107 Words in Sch. 7 rule 3 substituted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(13)(c)

F108 Words in Sch. 7 rule 3 omitted (8.2.2016) by virtue of The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 6(13)(d)

Computation of time U.K.

4.—(1) In computing any period of time for the purposes of the timetable—

(a) a Saturday or Sunday,

(b) Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Good Friday or a bank holiday, or

(c) a day appointed for public thanksgiving or mourning,

must be disregarded, and any such day must not be treated as a day for the purpose of any proceedings up to the completion of the poll nor must the CRO be obliged to proceed with the counting of the votes on such a day.

(2) In this rule, “bank holiday” means a day which is a bank holiday under the Banking and Financial Dealings Act 1971 M93 in England and Wales.

Marginal Citations

M93 1971 c. 80

PART 3 U.K. Stages Common To Contested And Uncontested Elections

Notice of election U.K.

5.—(1) The GLRO must publish in each Assembly constituency notice of the election stating—

(a) the place and times at which nomination papers are to be delivered, and

(b) the date of the poll in the event of a contest,

and the notice must state that forms of nomination papers may be obtained at that place and those times.

(2) The notice of election must state the arrangements (if any) which apply for the payment of the deposit required by rule 9 by means of the electronic transfer of funds.

(3) The notice of election must state the date by which—

(a) applications to vote by post or proxy, and

(b) other applications and notices about postal or proxy voting,

must reach the registration officer for local government electors in order that they may be effective for the election.

Nomination of candidates U.K.

6.—(1) Each candidate must be nominated by a separate nomination paper, which must be—

(a) in the appropriate form, and

(b) delivered to the place fixed for the purpose by the GLRO, which must be at one of the offices of the Greater London Authority before the last time for the delivery of nomination papers.

(2) A nomination paper must state the candidate's—

(a) full names,

(b) home address, in full, and

(c) if desired, description,

and the surname must be placed first in the list of names.

(3) If a candidate commonly uses—

(a) a surname which is different from any other surname he has, or

(b) a forename which is different from any other forename he has,

the nomination paper may state the commonly used surname or forename, or both surname and forename, in addition to the other name.

(4) The description (if any) can only be—

(a) one authorised as mentioned in paragraph (5) or (7), or

(b) the word “Independent”.

(5) A nomination paper may not include a description of a candidate that is likely to lead electors to associate the candidate with a registered party unless—

(a) the party is a qualifying party in relation to Greater London, and

(b) the description is authorised by a certificate—

(i) issued by or on behalf of the registered nominating officer of the party, and

(ii) received by the GLRO before the last time for the delivery of nomination papers set out in the timetable in rule 3.

(6) In paragraph (5) an authorised description may be either—

(a) the name of the party registered under section 28 of the 2000 Act M94 , or

(b) a description of the party registered under section 28A M95 of that Act.

(7) A nomination paper may not include a description of a candidate which is likely to lead electors to associate the candidate with two or more registered political parties unless the parties are each qualifying parties in relation to Greater London and the description is a registered description authorised by a certificate—

(a) issued by or on behalf of the registered nominating officer of each of the parties, and

(b) received by the GLRO before the last time for the delivery of nomination papers set out in the timetable in rule 3.

(8) For the purposes of paragraph (7), a description is a registered description if it is a description registered for use by the parties under section 28B of the 2000 Act M96 .

(9) A person will be guilty of a corrupt practice if he fraudulently purports to be authorised to issue a certificate under paragraph (5) or (7) on behalf of a registered party's nominating officer.

(10) For the purposes of the application of these rules in relation to an election—

(a) “registered party” means a party which was registered under Part 2 of the 2000 Act on the day (“the relevant day”) which is two days before the last day for the delivery of nomination papers at that election,

(b) a registered party is a qualifying party in relation to Greater London if on the relevant day the party was registered in respect of England in the Great Britain register maintained under that Part of that Act.

(11) For the purposes of paragraph (10)(a), any day falling within rule 4(1) must be disregarded.

Marginal Citations

M94 Section 28 of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 (c.41) was amended by S.I. 2004/366 and by section 48 of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22).

M95 Section 28A of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 (c.41) was inserted by section 49(1) of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22).

M96 Section 28B of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 (c.41) was inserted by section 49(1) of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22).

Subscription of nomination papers U.K.

7.—(1) The nomination paper of a candidate must be subscribed by at least 330 persons each of whom is entitled to vote at the election; and in relation to each London borough and the City, at least ten of the subscribers must be electors who are ordinarily resident in the borough or, as the case may be, the City.

(2) Where a nomination paper has the signatures of more than the required number of persons as assenting to the nomination of a candidate, the signatures (up to the required number) appearing first on the paper must be taken into account to the exclusion of any others.

(3) The nomination paper must give the electoral number of each person subscribing it.

[F109 (3A) A person must not subscribe more than one nomination paper at the same election.

(3B) Paragraph (3A) does not prevent a person subscribing a further nomination paper where the previously nominated candidate has either died or withdrawn.]

(4) The GLRO—

(a) must supply any elector with as many forms of nomination paper and forms of consent to nomination as may be required at the place and during the time for delivery of nomination papers, and

(b) must, at any elector's request, prepare a nomination paper for signature,

but it is not necessary for a nomination or consent to nomination to be on a form supplied by the GLRO.

(5) In this rule—

“elector” means a person named as a local government elector in the register being used at the election in that Assembly constituency, and includes a person shown in the register as below voting age if it appears from the register that he will be of voting age on the day fixed for the poll, but does not include a person who has an anonymous entry in the register, and

“electoral number” means—

(a)

a person's number in that register, or

(b)

pending publication of the register, his number (if any) in the electors list for that register.

Textual Amendments

F109 Sch. 7 rule 7(3A)(3B) inserted (1.3.2012) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2012 (S.I. 2012/198), rules 1(1), 5(2)

Consent to nomination U.K.

8.—(1) A person will not be validly nominated unless his consent to nomination—

(a) is given in writing in the appropriate form, or a form to like effect, on or within one month before the last day for the delivery of nomination papers;

(b) is attested by one witness whose name and address must be given; and

(c) is delivered at the place and within the time for delivery of nomination papers.

(2) A candidate's consent given under this rule must—

(a) state the day, month and year of his birth; and

(b) contain a statement that to the best of the candidate's knowledge and belief he is not disqualified from being elected by reason of—

(i) any disqualification set out in section 21 (disqualification from being the Mayor or an Assembly member) of the 1999 Act, F110 ...

[F111 (ii) a decision made under section 78A of the Local Government Act 2000 (decisions of First-tier tribunal), or

(iii) an order made under section 34(4) of the Localism Act 2011 (offences).]

Textual Amendments

F110 Word in Sch. 7 rule 8(2)(b) omitted (8.2.2016) by virtue of The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 7(6)(a)

F111 Sch. 7 rule 8(2)(b)(ii)(iii) substituted for Sch. 7 rule 8(2)(b)(ii) (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 7(6)(b)

Deposits U.K.

9.—(1) A person will not be validly nominated as a candidate unless the sum of £10,000 is deposited by him or on his behalf with the GLRO at the place and during the time for delivery of nomination papers.

(2) The deposit may be made either—

(a) by the deposit of any legal tender, or

(b) by means of a banker's draft, or

(c) with the GLRO's consent, in any other manner including by means of a debit or credit card or the electronic transfer of funds,

but the GLRO may refuse to accept a deposit sought to be made by means of a banker's draft if he does not know that the drawer carries on business as a banker in the United Kingdom.

(3) Where the deposit is made on behalf of the candidate, the person making the deposit must at the time he makes it give his name and address to the GLRO, unless they have previously been given to him under section 67 (appointment of election agent) of the 1983 Act.

Decisions as to validity of nomination papers U.K.

10.—(1) Where a nomination paper and the candidate's consent to it are delivered, and the deposit is made, in accordance with these Rules, the candidate must be deemed to stand nominated unless and until—

(a) the GLRO decides that the nomination paper is invalid, or

(b) proof is given to the GLRO's satisfaction of the candidate's death, or

(c) the candidate withdraws.

(2) The GLRO is entitled to hold the nomination paper of a person invalid only on one of the following grounds—

(a) that the particulars of the candidate or of the persons subscribing the paper are not as required by law,

(b) that the paper is not subscribed as so required, and

(c) that the paper breaks rule 6(5) or (7).

[F112 (2A) If, contrary to rule 7(3A), a person subscribes more than one nomination paper the GLRO, in determining whether a paper is subscribed as so required under paragraph (2)(b)—

(a) must only take the person’s signature into account in respect of the first nomination paper delivered under rule 6(1)(b) on which the person’s signature appears,

(b) must, where the person’s signature appears on a nomination paper delivered subsequently, find that the paper is not subscribed as so required if the signature appears within the first 330 signatures on the paper, regardless of whether the paper contains more than 330 signatures.]

(3) Subject to paragraph (4), the GLRO must, as soon as practicable after each nomination paper has been delivered, examine it and decide whether the candidate has been validly nominated.

(4) If in the GLRO's opinion a nomination paper breaks rule 6(5) or (7), he must give a decision to that effect—

(a) as soon as practicable after the delivery of the nomination paper, and

(b) in any event, before the end of the period of 24 hours starting with the end of the period for the delivery of nomination papers set out in the timetable in rule 3.

(5) Where the GLRO decides that a nomination paper is invalid, he must endorse and sign on the paper the fact and the reasons for his decision.

(6) The GLRO must, as soon as practicable after making such a decision in accordance with paragraph (3) or (4) that a [F113 nomination paper] is valid or invalid, send notice of it to the candidate at his home address as given in his nomination paper.

(7) The GLRO's decision that a nomination paper is valid is final and may not be questioned in any proceeding whatsoever.

(8) Subject to paragraph (7), nothing in this rule prevents the validity of a nomination being questioned on an election petition.

Textual Amendments

F112 Sch. 7 rule 10(2A) inserted (1.3.2012) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2012 (S.I. 2012/198), rules 1(1), 5(3)

F113 Words in Sch. 7 rule 10(6) substituted (1.3.2012) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2012 (S.I. 2012/198), rules 1(1), 5(4)

Publication of statement of persons nominated U.K.

11.—(1) The GLRO must prepare and publish a statement showing the persons who have been and stand nominated and any other persons who have been nominated together with the reason why they no longer stand nominated.

(2) The statement must show the names, addresses and descriptions of the persons nominated as given in their nomination papers.

(3) If a person's nomination paper gives a commonly used surname or forename, or both surname and forename in addition to another name, the statement must show the person's commonly used surname or forename, or both surname and forename (as the case may be) instead of any other name.

(4) Paragraph (3) does not apply if the GLRO thinks—

(a) that the use of the person's commonly used name may be likely to mislead or confuse electors, or

(b) that the commonly used name is obscene or offensive.

(5) If paragraph (4) applies, the GLRO must give notice in writing to the candidate of his reasons for refusing to allow the use of a commonly used name.

(6) The statement must show the persons standing nominated arranged alphabetically in the order of their surnames, and if there are two or more of them with the same surname, of their other names.

(7) In the case of a person nominated by more than one nomination paper, the GLRO must take the particulars required by the foregoing provisions of this rule from such one of the papers as the candidate (or the GLRO in default of the candidate) may select.

Correction of minor errors U.K.

12.—(1) The GLRO may, if he thinks fit, at any time before the publication under rule 11 of the statement of persons nominated, correct minor errors in a nomination paper.

(2) Errors which may be corrected include—

(a) errors as to a person's electoral number,

(b) obvious errors of spelling in relation to the details of a candidate.

(3) Anything done by the GLRO in pursuance of this rule may not be questioned in any proceedings other than proceedings on an election petition.

(4) The GLRO must have regard to any guidance issued by the Electoral Commission for the purposes of this rule.

Inspection of nomination papers and consent to nomination U.K.

13.—(1) During ordinary office hours, in the period starting 24 hours after the latest time for the delivery of nomination papers and before the date of the poll, any person may inspect and take copies of, or extracts from, nomination papers and consents to nomination.

(2) Inspection under paragraph (1) may not take place on a day that is specified in rule 4(1).

Withdrawal of candidature U.K.

14.—(1) A candidate may withdraw his candidature by notice of withdrawal—

(a) signed by him and attested by one witness, whose name and address must be given, and

(b) delivered to the GLRO at the place for delivery of nomination papers,

by the end of the period for the delivery of notices of withdrawals of candidature in the timetable in rule 3.

(2) Where a candidate is outside the United Kingdom, a notice of withdrawal signed by his election agent and accompanied by a written declaration also so signed, of the candidate's absence from the United Kingdom will be of the same effect as a notice of withdrawal signed by the candidate; but where the candidate stands nominated by more than one nomination paper a notice of withdrawal under this paragraph will be effective if, and only if, it is accompanied, in addition to that declaration, by a written statement signed by the candidate that the person giving the notice is authorised to do so on the candidate's behalf during his absence from the United Kingdom.

Method of election U.K.

15.  If, after any withdrawals under rule 14—

(a) more than two candidates remain validly nominated, a poll must be taken in accordance with Parts 4 and 5 of these Rules;

(b) only two candidates remain validly nominated, a poll must be taken in accordance with Part 4;

(c) only one candidate remains validly nominated, that person must be declared to be elected in accordance with Part 6.

PART 4 U.K. Contested Elections

Poll to be taken by ballot U.K.

16.  The votes at the poll must be given by ballot.

The ballot papers U.K.

17.—(1) The ballot of every person entitled to a mayoral vote at the election must consist of a ballot paper which must be in the appropriate form.

(2) Each person remaining validly nominated at the election, after any withdrawals, and no other, is entitled to have their name inserted in the ballot paper.

(3) Every ballot paper—

(a) must [F114 , so far as practicable for the purposes of electronic counting,] be printed in accordance with the directions set out in the Forms Schedule,

(b) must contain the names and other particulars of the candidates as shown in the statement of persons nominated,

(c) must have a number and other unique identifying mark printed on the back, and

(d) may, in the case of ballot papers for use at polling stations, be marked with the words “do not fold”.

(4) If a candidate who is the subject of a party's authorisation under rule 6(5) so requests, the ballot paper must contain, against the candidate's particulars, the party's registered emblem (or, as the case may be, one of the party's registered emblems).

[F115 (4A) If a candidate who is the subject of an authorisation by two or more parties under rule 6(7) so requests, the ballot paper must contain, against the candidate’s particulars, the registered emblem (or, as the case may be, one of the registered emblems) of one of those parties.]

(5) The candidate's request under paragraph (4) [F116 or paragraph (4A)] must—

(a) be made in writing to the GLRO, and

(b) be received by him during the period for delivery of nomination papers set out in the timetable in rule 3.

(6) The names of the candidates must be arranged alphabetically in order of their surnames and, if there are two or more of them with the same surname, of their other names.

(7) The GLRO must supply the ballot papers for use at the election to the CRO by such date as may be agreed between them.

(8) The papers supplied under paragraph (7) must be of a different colour from those used at any other relevant election or referendum.

Textual Amendments

F114 Words in Sch. 7 rule 17(3)(a) inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 8(7)

F115 Sch. 7 rule 17(4A) inserted (1.3.2012) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2012 (S.I. 2012/198), rules 1(1), 5(5)(a)

F116 Words in Sch. 7 rule 17(5) inserted (1.3.2012) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2012 (S.I. 2012/198), rules 1(1), 5(5)(b)

The corresponding number list U.K.

18.—(1) The CRO must prepare a list containing the numbers and other unique identifying marks of all of the ballot papers to be issued by him in pursuance of rule 23(1) or provided by him in pursuance of rule 28(1).

(2) The list must be in the appropriate form or a form to like effect.

(3) At an ordinary election, the same list may be used for each Authority election with which the election is combined.

The official mark U.K.

19.—(1) Every ballot paper must contain an appropriate security marking (the official mark).

(2) The official mark must be kept secret, and an interval of not less than five years must intervene between the use of the same official mark at any Authority election.

(3) The GLRO may use a different official mark for different purposes at the same election.

Prohibition of disclosure of vote U.K.

20.  No person who has voted at the election may, in any legal proceeding to question the election, be required to state for whom he has voted.

Use of schools and public rooms U.K.

21.—(1) The CRO may use, free of charge, for the purpose of taking the poll or counting the votes—

(a) a room in a school maintained or assisted by a [F117 local authority (as defined in the Education Act 1996)] or a school in respect of which grants are made out of moneys provided by Parliament to the person or body of persons responsible for the management of the school,

(b) a room the expense of maintaining which is met by any local authority.

(2) In relation to an election to fill a vacancy in the office of the Mayor, the CRO must make good any damage done to, and defray any expense incurred by the persons having control over, any such room as is mentioned in paragraph (1) by reason of its being used for the purpose of taking the poll or counting the votes.

Textual Amendments

F117 Words in Sch. 7 rule 21(1)(a) substituted (5.5.2010) by The Local Education Authorities and Children’s Services Authorities (Integration of Functions) (Local and Subordinate Legislation) Order 2010 (S.I. 2010/1172), art. 1(1), Sch. 3 para. 77(2)

Notice of poll U.K.

22.—(1) The GLRO must, in accordance with the timetable in rule 3, publish notice of the poll stating—

(a) the day and hours fixed for the poll,

(b) particulars of each candidate remaining validly nominated,

and rule 11(2) applies in relation to the order in which names and particulars appear on the notice of the poll as it applies in relation to the statement of persons nominated.

(2) The CRO must, not later than the time of the publication of the notice of the poll, also give public notice of—

(a) the situation of each polling station, and

(b) the description of voters entitled to vote there,

and he must as soon as practicable after giving such a notice give a copy of it to each of the election agents.

(3) The notice published under paragraph (2) shall—

(a) state that the poll at the election is to be taken together with the poll at a relevant election or referendum as the case may be,

(b) specify the parliamentary constituency, European Parliamentary local counting area, relevant London borough, or voting area; and in the case of an election to fill a casual vacancy, the electoral area for which the relevant election or referendum is held, and

(c) where the polls are to be taken together in part of the Borough only, specify that part.

(4) At an ordinary election, the notice of poll must include the heading “GREATER LONDON AUTHORITY ELECTION”.

Postal ballot papers U.K.

23.—(1) The CRO must, in accordance with regulations made under the 1983 Act M97 , issue to those entitled to vote by post a ballot paper and a postal voting statement, together with such envelopes for their return as may be prescribed in such regulations.

(2) The postal voting statement must be in the appropriate form or a form to like effect.

(3) The postal voting statement must include provision for the form to be signed and for stating the date of birth of the elector or proxy (as the case may be).

(4) The CRO must also issue to those entitled to vote by post such information as he thinks appropriate about how to obtain—

(a) translations into languages other than English of any directions to or guidance for voters sent with the ballot paper,

(b) a translation into Braille of such directions or guidance,

(c) graphical representations of such directions or guidance,

(d) the directions or guidance in any other form (including any audible form).

(5) In the case of a ballot paper issued to a person at an address in the United Kingdom, the CRO must ensure that the return of the ballot paper and postal voting statement is free of charge to the voter.

(6) Where the proceedings on the issue and receipt of postal ballot papers at the election are taken together with a relevant election or referendum the appropriate form of postal voting statement under paragraph (2) may be the joint postal voting statement which must be in the appropriate form or form to like effect.

Marginal Citations

M97 See the Representation of the People (England and Wales) Regulations 2001 S.I. 2001/341 as amended by S.I. 2002/1871, 2006/752 and S.I. 2006/2910.

Provision of polling stations U.K.

24.—(1) The CRO must provide a sufficient number of polling stations and, subject to the following provisions of this rule, must allot the electors to the polling stations in such manner as he thinks most convenient.

(2) One or more polling stations may be provided in the same room.

(3) The polling station allotted to electors from any parliamentary polling district wholly or partly within the Assembly constituency must, in the absence of special circumstances, be in the parliamentary polling place for that district, unless that place is outside the Assembly constituency.

(4) The CRO must provide each polling station with such number of compartments as may be necessary in which the voters can mark their votes screened from observation.

Appointment of presiding officers and clerks U.K.

25.—(1) The CRO must appoint and pay a presiding officer to attend at each polling station and such clerks and technical assistants as may be necessary for the purposes of the election, but he must not appoint any person who has been employed by or on behalf of a candidate in or about the election.

(2) The CRO may, if he thinks fit, preside at a polling station and the provisions of this Part relating to a presiding officer apply to the CRO so presiding with the necessary modifications as to things to be done by the CRO to the presiding officer or by the presiding officer to the CRO.

(3) A presiding officer may do, by the clerks appointed to assist him, any act (including the asking of questions) which he is required or authorised by this Part to do at a polling station except order the arrest, exclusion or removal of any person from the polling station.

Issue of official poll cards U.K.

26.—(1) The CRO must as soon as practicable after the publication of the notice of election, send to electors and their proxies an official poll card.

(2) An elector's official poll card must be sent or delivered to his qualifying address, and a proxy's to his address as shown in the list of proxies.

(3) The official poll card must be in the appropriate form or a form to like effect, and must set out—

(a) that the election is a mayoral election,

(b) the elector's name, qualifying address and number on the register,

(c) the date and hours of the poll and the situation of the elector's polling station, and

(d) such other information as the CRO thinks appropriate,

and different information may be provided in pursuance of sub-paragraph (d) to different electors or descriptions of elector.

(4) In the case of an elector with an anonymous entry, instead of containing the matter mentioned in paragraph (3)(b), the polling card must contain such matter as is specified in the appropriate form.

(5) At an ordinary election, the CRO must issue a combined poll card in the appropriate form.

(6) If the CRO and the returning officer for each relevant election or referendum agree, the poll card issued under this rule may be combined with the official poll card for the relevant election or referendum, with necessary adaptations.

(7) In this rule “elector” means—

(a) an elector with an entry on the register to be used at the election on the last day for the publication of the notice of the election, and

(b) includes a person then shown in the register as below voting age if (but only if) it appears from the register that he will be of voting age on the day fixed for the poll.

Information for voters U.K.

27.—(1) At an ordinary election, the GLRO may, in addition to a statement by him in an election booklet, include in the booklet information for voters that has been agreed by him with the Electoral Commission.

(2) The information for voters given in the election booklet may include information about—

(a) the office of the Mayor and the London Assembly,

(b) the system of voting at each Authority election,

(c) how to vote in a manner that will ensure a vote is regarded as validly cast, and

subject to paragraph (3), may include any other information given in exercise of the GLRO's duty under section 69 (encouraging electoral participation) of the 2006 Act.

(3) The information for voters must not contain–

(a) any advertising material,

(b) any material referring to a candidate or a registered party other than by reproduction of a ballot paper which refers equally to all candidates and parties at the ordinary election,

(c) any material referring to the holder, at any time, of the office of Mayor or Assembly member, other than under paragraph (b) as a candidate at the ordinary election.

(4) Information published in an election booklet under this rule must be printed on not more than two sides of A5 paper.

Equipment of polling stations U.K.

28.—(1) The CRO must provide each presiding officer with—

(a) such ballot papers as may be necessary, and

(b) such ballot boxes as may be necessary having taken account of any direction made by the GLRO in accordance with paragraph (9).

(2) Every ballot box must be so constructed that the ballot papers can be put in it, but cannot be withdrawn from it, without the box being unlocked or, where the box has no lock, the seal being broken.

(3) The CRO must provide each polling station with—

(a) materials to enable voters to mark the ballot papers,

(b) copies of the register of electors for such part of it as contains the entries relating to the electors allotted to the station,

(c) the parts of any special lists prepared for the election corresponding to the register of electors or the part of it provided under sub-paragraph (b),

(d) a list consisting of that part of the list prepared under rule 18 which contains the numbers (but not the other unique identifying marks) corresponding to those on the ballot papers provided to the presiding officer of the polling station.

(4) The reference in paragraph (3)(b) to the copies of the register of electors includes a reference to copies of any notices issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act M98 in respect of alterations to the register.

(5) The CRO must also provide each polling station with a device for enabling voters who are blind or partially sighted to vote without any need for assistance from the presiding officer or any companion within the meaning of rule 40.

(6) The device referred to in paragraph (5) above must–

(a) allow a ballot paper to be inserted into and removed from or attached to and detached from the device, easily and without damage to the paper,

(b) keep the ballot paper firmly in place during use, and

(c) provide suitable means for the voter to—

(i) identify the spaces on the ballot paper on which he may mark his vote,

(ii) identify the candidate to whom each such space refers, and

(iii) mark his vote on the space he has chosen.

(7) The enlarged sample copies of the ballot paper that the GLRO is required to provide, or cause to be displayed at every polling station (in accordance with section 199B(5) and (7) of the 1983 Act) must—

(a) be provided to the CRO who will deliver them to the polling stations, and

(b) be printed on paper of the same colour as the ballot paper at the election.

(8) The CRO must also provide each polling station with notices for the guidance of voters, which must be exhibited—

(a) outside the polling station,

(b) inside the polling station—

(i) in the communal areas, and

(ii) in every voting compartment.

(9) If the GLRO thinks fit he may, not later than the date of the notice of election, direct the CRO that joint ballot boxes must be used for the ballot papers at the election and any or all relevant elections or referendums with which the election is taken.

(10) Where separate ballot boxes are to be used for the election and every relevant election or referendum, each ballot box shall be clearly marked with—

(a) the election or referendum to which it relates, as shown on the ballot papers for that election or referendum, and

(b) the words “Place the [specify colour of ballot papers in question] ballot paper here”.

(11) Where the CRO does not discharge the functions specified in regulation 5 of the Combination of Polls Regulations, references in this rule to the CRO should be read as references to the returning officer who does discharge those functions.

Marginal Citations

M98 Section 13B of the 1983 Act was inserted by paragraph 3 of Schedule 2 to the Representation of the People Act 2000 (c.2) and amended by section 11(3) of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22). Subsections (3B) and (3D) of section 13B were inserted by section 11(4) of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22).

Notices for the guidance of voters U.K.

29.—(1) The GLRO must prepare and provide each CRO with the notices to be exhibited under rule 28(8).

(2) The GLRO may provide each CRO with versions of the notices in such other form as he thinks appropriate, in accordance with section 199B (translations etc of certain documents) of the 1983 Act.

(3) Notices for the guidance of voters exhibited under rule 28(8) or paragraph (2) must be in the appropriate form, but may include such alternative information relating to Authority elections as—

(a) meets with the requirements of the Notices Schedule, and

(b) the GLRO may decide.

(4) Notices provided under paragraph (2) may, if the CRO agrees, be exhibited at any polling station—

(a) outside the polling station,

(b) inside the polling station—

(i) in the communal areas,

(ii) in every voting compartment.

(5) Where the CRO does not discharge the functions specified in regulation 5 of the Combination of Polls Regulations, references in this rule to the CRO should be read as references to the returning officer who does discharge those functions.

Appointment of polling and counting agents U.K.

30.—(1) Before the commencement of the poll, each candidate may appoint—

(a) polling agents to attend at polling stations for the purpose of detecting personation, and

(b) counting agents to attend at the mayoral count.

(2) The same person may be appointed as a polling agent or counting agent by more than one candidate.

(3) For each local count, one (but no more than one) counting agent of each candidate may be authorised by the terms of his appointment to require a re-count at that count.

(4) Not more than four polling agents, or such greater number as the CRO may by notice allow, may be permitted to attend at any particular polling station.

(5) If the number of such agents appointed to attend at a particular polling station exceeds that number, the CRO must determine by lot which agents are permitted to attend, and only the agents on whom the lot falls will be deemed to have been duly appointed.

(6) The CRO may limit the number of counting agents, but in doing so must ensure that—

(a) the number is the same in the case of each candidate, and

(b) the number allowed to a candidate must not (except in special circumstances) be less than the number obtained by dividing the number of clerks employed on the counting by the number of candidates.

(7) For the purposes of the calculations required by paragraph (6) a counting agent appointed for more than one candidate is a separate agent for each of the candidates for whom he has been appointed.

(8) Notice in writing of the appointment of polling and counting agents, stating the names and addresses of the persons appointed, must be given by the candidate to the CRO and must be so given not later than the fifth day (computed in accordance with rule 4) before the day of the poll.

(9) If an agent dies, or becomes incapable of acting, the candidate or, as the case may be, the election agent, may appoint another person in his place, and must forthwith give to the CRO notice in writing of the name and address of that other person.

(10) Any appointment authorised by this rule may be made and the notice of appointment given to the CRO by the candidate's election agent, instead of by the candidate.

(11) In the following provisions of this Part references to polling agents and counting agents must be taken as reference to agents—

(a) whose appointments have been duly made and notified, and

(b) where the number of agents is restricted, who are within the permitted numbers.

(12) Any notice required to be given to a counting agent by the CRO may be delivered at, or sent by post to, the address stated in the notice of appointment.

(13) A candidate may himself do any act or thing which any polling or counting agent of his, if appointed, would have been authorised to do, or may assist his agent in doing any such act or thing.

(14) A candidate's election agent may do or assist in doing anything which a polling or counting agent of his is authorised to do; and anything required or authorised by these Rules to be done in the presence of the polling or counting agent may be done in the presence of a candidate's election agent instead of his polling agent or counting agent.

(15) Where by these Rules any act or thing is required or authorised to be done in the presence of the polling or counting agents, the non-attendance of any agent or agents at the time and place appointed for the purpose will not, if the act or thing is otherwise duly done, invalidate the act or thing done.

(16) Where the CRO does not discharge the functions specified in regulation 5 of the Combination of Polls Regulations, then notices of the appointment of polling agents and counting agents which are required by this rule to be given to the CRO shall be given to the returning officer who discharges those functions.

Notification of requirement of secrecy U.K.

31.— [F118 (1)]  The CRO must make such arrangements as he thinks fit to ensure that—

(a) every person attending at a polling station (otherwise than for the purpose of voting or assisting a voter with disabilities to vote or as a constable on duty there) has been given a copy of the provisions of subsections (1), (3) and (6) of section 66 (requirement of secrecy) of the Representation of the People Act 1983 M99 , and

(b) every person attending at the counting of the votes (other than any constable on duty at the counting) has been given a copy of the provisions of subsections (2) and (6) of that section.

[F119 (2) In paragraph (1) a reference to a constable includes a person designated as a community support officer under section 38 of the 2002 Act (police powers for employees).]

Textual Amendments

F118 Sch. 7 rule 31 renumbered as Sch. 7 rule 31(1) (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 5(7)(a)

F119 Sch. 7 rule 31(2) inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 5(7)(a)

Marginal Citations

M99 1983 c. 2; Section 66 of that Act was amended by the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c. 22).

Return of postal ballot papers U.K.

32.—(1) Where—

(a) a postal vote has been returned in respect of a person who is entered on the postal voters list, or

(b) a proxy postal vote has been returned in respect of a proxy who is entered on the proxy postal voters list,

the CRO must mark the list in the manner prescribed by regulations made under the 1983 Act M100 .

(2) Rule 49(5) does not apply for the purpose of determining whether, for the purposes of this rule, a postal vote or a proxy postal vote is returned.

Marginal Citations

M100 1983 c. 2; Regulation 84A of the Representation of the People (England and Wales) Regulations 2001 S.I. 2001/341 as amended by S.I. 2006/2910 provides the circumstances in which a postal vote should be treated as returned for this purpose.

Admission to polling station U.K.

33.—(1) The presiding officer must exclude all persons from the polling station except—

(a) voters,

(b) persons under the age of 18 who accompany voters to the polling station,

(c) the candidates and their election agents,

(d) the polling agents appointed to attend at the polling station,

(e) the clerks appointed to attend at the polling station,

(f) persons who are entitled to attend by virtue of any of sections 6A to 6D of the 2000 Act,

(g) the constables on duty,

(h) the companions of voters with disabilities, and

(i) persons entitled to be admitted to the polling station at a relevant election or referendum..

(2) The presiding officer must regulate the total number of voters and persons under the age of 18 who accompany them to be admitted to the polling station at the same time.

(3) Not more than one polling agent may be admitted at the same time to a polling station on behalf of the same candidate.

(4) A constable or person employed by the CRO must not be admitted to vote in person elsewhere than at his own polling station allotted to him under these Rules, except on production and surrender of a certificate as to his employment which must be in the appropriate form and signed by an officer of the police of or above the rank of inspector or by the CRO, as the case may be.

(5) Any certificate surrendered under this rule must forthwith be cancelled.

[F120 (6) In this rule a reference to a constable includes a person designated as a community support officer under section 38 of the 2002 Act.]

Textual Amendments

F120 Sch. 7 rule 33(6) inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 5(7)(b)

Keeping of order in station U.K.

34.—(1) It is the presiding officer's duty to keep order at his polling station.

(2) If a person misconducts himself in a polling station, or fails to obey the presiding officer's lawful orders, he may immediately, by the presiding officer's order, be removed from the polling station—

(a) by a constable in or near that station, or

(b) by any other person authorised in writing by the CRO to remove him,

and the person so removed must not, without the presiding officer's permission, again enter the polling station during the day.

(3) Any person so removed may, if charged with the commission in the polling station of an offence, be dealt with as a person taken into custody by a constable for an offence without a warrant.

(4) The powers conferred by this rule must not be exercised so as to prevent a voter who is otherwise entitled to vote at a polling station from having an opportunity of voting at that station.

Sealing of ballot boxes U.K.

35.  Immediately before the commencement of the poll, the presiding officer must—

(a) show each ballot box, empty, to such persons, if any, as are present in the polling station, so that they may see that the boxes are empty,

(b) lock up such of the boxes as have locks,

(c) place his seal—

(i) on each lock, and

(ii) on each ballot box which has no lock,

in such a manner as to prevent its being opened without breaking the seal,

(d) place each box in his view for the receipt of ballot papers, and

(e) keep each box locked and sealed or, as the case may be, sealed.

Questions to be put to voters U.K.

36.—(1) At the time of the application (but not afterwards), the questions specified in the second column of the following Table—

(a) may be put by the presiding officer to a person who is mentioned in the first column, and

(b) must be put if the letter “R” appears after the question and the candidate or his election or polling agent requires the question to be put.

Q. No.	Person applying for ballot paper	Question
1	A person applying as an elector	(a)—Are you the person registered in the register of local government electors for this election as follows (read the whole entry from the register)? [R] (b)—Have you already voted, here or elsewhere in Greater London at this election for the Mayor of London, otherwise than as proxy for some other person? [R]
2	A person applying as proxy	(a)—Are you the person whose name appears as A.B. in the list of proxies for this election as entitled to vote as proxy on behalf of C.D.? [R] (b)—Have you already voted here or elsewhere in Greater London at this election for the Mayor of London, as proxy on behalf of C.D.? [R] (c)—Are you the spouse, civil partner, parent, grandparent, brother, sister, child or grandchild of C.D.? [R]
3	A person applying as proxy for an elector with an anonymous entry (instead of the questions at entry 2)	(a)—Are you the person entitled to vote as proxy on behalf of the elector whose number on the register of electors is (read out the number)? [R] (b)—Have you already voted here or elsewhere in Greater London as proxy on behalf of the elector whose number on the register of electors is (read out the number)? [R] (c)—Are you the spouse, civil partner, parent, grandparent, brother, sister, child or grandchild of the person whose number on the register of electors is (read out the number)? [R]
4	A person applying as proxy if the question at entry 2(c) or 3(c) is not answered in the affirmative	Have you already voted here or elsewhere in Greater London at this election for the Mayor of London, on behalf of two persons of whom you are not the spouse, civil partner, parent, grandparent, brother, sister, child or grandchild?[R]
5	A person applying as an elector in relation to whom there is an entry in the postal voters list	(a)—Did you apply to vote by post? (b)—Why have you not voted by post?
6	A person applying as proxy who is named in the proxy postal voters list	(a)—Did you apply to vote by post as proxy? (b)—Why have you not voted by post as proxy?

(2) In the case of an elector in respect of whom a notice has been issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act, the references in the questions at entries 1(a) and 3(a), (b) and (c) to reading from the register must be taken as references to reading from the notice issued under those subsections.

(3) A ballot paper must not be delivered to any person required to answer any of the above questions unless he has answered each question satisfactorily.

(4) Except as authorised by this rule, no inquiry may be permitted as to the right of any person to vote.

Challenge of voter U.K.

37.  A person must not be prevented from voting because—

(a) a candidate or his election or polling agent declares that he has reasonable cause to believe that the person has committed an offence of personation, or

(b) the person is arrested on the grounds that he is suspected of committing or of being about to commit such an offence.

Voting procedure U.K.

38.—(1) A ballot paper must be delivered to a voter who applies for one, and immediately before delivery—

(a) the number and (unless paragraph (2) applies) name of the elector as stated in the copy of the register of electors must be called out,

(b) the number of the elector must be marked on the list mentioned in rule 28(3)(d) beside the number of the ballot paper to be issued to him,

(c) a mark must be placed in the register of electors against the number of the elector to note that a ballot paper has been applied for but without showing the particular ballot paper which may be delivered,

(d) in the case of a person applying for a ballot paper as proxy, a mark must also be placed against his name in the list of proxies.

(2) In the case of an elector who has an anonymous entry, he must show the presiding officer his official poll card and only his number may be called out in pursuance of paragraph (1)(a).

(3) In the case of an elector who is added to the register in pursuance of a notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act, paragraph (1) is modified as follows—

(a) in sub-paragraph (a), for “copy of the register of electors” substitute “copy of the notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act”,

(b) in sub-paragraph (c), for “in the register of electors” substitute “on the copy of the notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act”.

(4) The voter, on receiving the ballot paper, must forthwith proceed into one of the compartments in the polling station and there secretly mark his paper, and must then show to the presiding officer the back of the paper, so as to disclose the number and other unique identifying mark, and put the ballot paper into the ballot box in the presiding officer's presence, but so as to conceal his vote.

(5) The voter must vote without undue delay, and must leave the polling station as soon as he has put his ballot paper into the ballot box.

(6) A voter who has had a ballot paper delivered to him under paragraph (1), but has decided not to mark it, may return it to the presiding officer and where the voter does so, the presiding officer must—

(a) immediately cancel the ballot paper, and for the purposes of these rules treat it as a spoilt ballot paper,

(b) place a mark beside the number of that ballot paper on the corresponding number list to show that the ballot paper has been cancelled.

(7) The same copy of—

(a) the list of proxies,

(b) the register of electors,

(c) any notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act (marked in the case of an elector who is added to the register in pursuance of such a notice),

may be used for the election and each relevant election and referendum and one mark may be placed in the list, register or notice (as the case may be) to denote that a ballot paper has been delivered in respect of each election and referendum; except that, where a ballot paper has not been issued in respect of any election or referendum, a different mark must be placed in the list, register or notice so as to identify the election or referendum in respect of which a ballot paper was issued.

(8) At an ordinary election, the same copy of the list mentioned in rule 28(3)(d), may be used for each Authority election and one mark may be placed in the list, to denote that a ballot paper has been delivered in respect of each Authority election; except that, where a ballot paper has not been issued in respect of any Authority election, a different mark must be placed in the list, so as to identify the elections in respect of which a ballot paper was issued.

[F121 (9) A voter who at the close of the poll is in the polling station, or in a queue outside the polling station, for the purpose of voting must (despite the close of the poll) be entitled to apply for a ballot paper under paragraph (1); and these rules apply in relation to such a voter accordingly.]

Textual Amendments

F121 Sch. 7 rule 38(9) inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 9(6)(a)

Votes marked by presiding officer U.K.

39.—(1) The presiding officer, on the application of a voter—

(a) who is incapacitated by blindness or other disability from voting in the manner directed by these Rules, or

(b) who declares orally that he is unable to read,

must, in the presence of the polling agents, cause the voter's vote to be marked on a ballot paper in the manner directed by the voter, and the ballot paper to be placed in the ballot box.

(2) The name and number on the register of electors of every voter whose vote is marked in pursuance of this rule, and the reason why it is so marked, must be entered on a list (in these Rules called “the list of votes marked by the presiding officer”). In the case of a person voting as proxy for an elector, the number to be entered together with the voter's name must be the elector's number.

(3) In the case of a person in respect of whom a notice has been issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act M101 , paragraph (2) applies as if for “on the register of electors of every voter” there were substituted “relating to every voter in respect of whom a notice has been issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act”.

(4) The same list may be used for each relevant election or referendum, and where it is so used, an entry in that list must be taken to mean that the ballot papers were so marked in respect of each election or referendum, unless the list identifies the election or referendum at which the ballot paper was so marked.

Marginal Citations

M101 Section 13B of the 1983 Act was inserted by paragraph 3 of Schedule 2 to the Representation of the People Act 2000 (c.2) and amended by section 11(3) of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22). Subsections (3B) and (3D) of section 13B were inserted by section 11(4) of the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c.22).

Voting by persons with disabilities U.K.

40.—(1) If a voter makes an application to the presiding officer to be allowed, on the ground of—

(a) blindness or other disability, or

(b) inability to read,

to vote with the assistance of another person by whom he is accompanied (in these Rules referred to as “the companion”), the presiding officer must require the voter to declare, orally or in writing, whether he is so incapacitated by his blindness or other disability, or by his inability to read, as to be unable to vote without assistance.

(2) If the presiding officer—

(a) is satisfied that the voter is so incapacitated, and

(b) is also satisfied by a written declaration made by the companion (in these Rules referred to as “the declaration made by the companion of a voter with disabilities”) that the companion—

(i) is a qualified person within the meaning of these Rules, and

(ii) has not previously assisted more than one voter with disabilities to vote at the election,

the presiding officer must grant the application, and then anything which is by these Rules required to be done to, or by that voter in connection with the giving of his vote may be done to, or with the assistance of, the companion.

(3) For the purpose of these Rules, a person is a voter with disabilities if he has made such a declaration as is mentioned in paragraph (1) above, and a person may be qualified to assist a voter with disabilities to vote if that person—

(a) is a person who is entitled to vote as an elector at the election, or

(b) is the father, mother, brother, sister, spouse, civil partner, son or daughter of the voter and has attained the age of 18 years.

(4) The name and number in the register of electors of every voter whose vote is given in accordance with this rule and the name and address of the companion must be entered on a list (in these Rules referred to as the “list of voters with disabilities assisted by companions”). In the case of a person voting as proxy for an elector, the number to be entered together with the voter's name must be the elector's number.

(5) In the case of a person in respect of whom a notice has been issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act, paragraph (4) applies as if for “in the register of electors of every voter” there were substituted “relating to every voter in respect of whom a notice has been issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act”.

(6) The declaration made by the companion—

(a) must be in the appropriate form, and

(b) must be made before the presiding officer at the time when the voter applies to vote with the assistance of a companion, and

(c) must forthwith be given to the presiding officer who must attest and retain it.

(7) No fee or other payment may be charged in respect of the declaration.

(8) The same list of voters with disabilities assisted by companions may be used for each relevant election and referendum, and where it is so used, an entry in that list must be taken to mean that the votes were so given in respect of each election and referendum, unless the list identifies the election or referendum for which the vote was so given.

Tendered ballot papers: circumstances where available U.K.

41.—(1) If a person, representing himself to be—

(a) a particular elector named in the register and not named in the absent voters list, or

(b) a particular person named in the list of proxies as proxy for an elector and not entitled to vote by post as proxy,

applies for a ballot paper after another person has voted in person either as the elector or his proxy, the applicant must, on satisfactorily answering the questions permitted by law to be asked at the poll, be entitled, subject to the following provisions of this rule and rule 42, to mark a ballot paper (in these Rules referred to as “a tendered ballot paper”) in the same manner as any other voter.

(2) Paragraph (4) applies if—

(a) a person applies for a ballot paper representing himself to be a particular elector named in the register,

(b) he is also named in the postal voters list, and

(c) he claims that he did not make an application to vote by post at the election.

(3) Paragraph (4) also applies if—

(a) a person applies for a ballot paper representing himself to be a particular person named as a proxy in the list of proxies,

(b) he is also named in the proxy postal voters list, and

(c) he claims that he did not make an application to vote by post as proxy.

(4) The person must, on satisfactorily answering the questions permitted by law to be asked at the poll, be entitled, subject to the following provisions of this rule and rule 42, to mark a ballot paper (in these Rules referred to as a “tendered ballot paper”) in the same manner as any other voter.

(5) Paragraph (6) applies if before the close of the poll but after the last time at which a person may apply for a replacement postal ballot paper, a person represents himself to be—

(a) a particular elector named in the register who is also named in the postal voters list, or

(b) a particular person named as a proxy in the list of proxies and who is also named in the proxy postal voters list,

and claims that he has lost or has not received his postal ballot paper.

(6) The person must, on satisfactorily answering the questions permitted by law to be asked at the poll, be entitled, subject to the provisions of this rule and rule 42, to mark a ballot paper (in these Rules referred to as a “tendered ballot paper”) in the same manner as any other voter.

Tendered ballot papers: general provisions U.K.

42.—(1) A tendered ballot paper must—

(a) be of a colour differing from the other ballot papers,

(b) instead of being put into the ballot box, be given to the presiding officer and endorsed by him with the name of the voter and his number on the register of electors, and set aside in a separate packet.

(2) The name of the voter and his number on the register of electors must be entered on a list (in these Rules referred to as the “tendered votes list”).

(3) In the case of a person voting as proxy for an elector, the number to be endorsed or entered together with the voter's name must be the number of that elector.

(4) In the case of an elector who has an anonymous entry, this rule and rule 41 apply subject to the following modifications—

(a) in paragraphs (1)(b) and (2) above, the references to the name of the voter must be ignored,

(b) otherwise, a reference to a person named on a register or list must be construed as a reference to a person whose number appears in the register or list (as the case may be).

(5) In the case of a person in respect of whom a notice has been issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act, this rule and rule 41 apply as if—

(a) in rule 41(1)(a), (2)(a) and (5)(a), for “named in the register” there were substituted “in respect of whom a notice under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act has been issued”,

(b) in paragraph (1)(b) of this rule, for “his number in the register of electors” there were substituted “the number relating to him on a notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act”,

(c) in paragraph (2) of this rule, for “his number in the register of electors” there were substituted “the number relating to him on a notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act”.

(6) The same list may be used for each relevant election or referendum, and where it is so used, an entry in that list must be taken to mean that tendered ballot papers were marked in respect of each election or referendum, unless the list identifies the election for which a tendered ballot paper was delivered.

Spoilt and replacement ballot papers U.K.

43.—(1) A voter who has inadvertently dealt with his ballot paper in such manner that it cannot be conveniently used as a ballot paper may, on delivering it to the presiding officer and proving to his satisfaction the fact of the inadvertence, obtain a replacement for the ballot paper so delivered (in these Rules referred to as “ a spoilt ballot paper”), and the spoilt ballot paper must be immediately cancelled.

(2) If a voter decides, after he has returned his ballot paper and it has been cancelled in accordance with rule 38(6), but before the close of the poll, that he wishes to vote in the election, he may obtain a replacement for the returned ballot paper.

(3) Before a replacement ballot paper is obtained, the presiding officer must mark the corresponding number list that was marked under rule 38(1) (the corresponding number list)—

(a) in the case of a ballot paper being replaced under paragraph (1) or (2), beside the number of the replacement ballot paper obtained to show—

(i) the number of the elector, and

(ii) the number of the ballot paper which is being replaced; and

(b) in the case of a ballot paper being replaced under paragraph (1), beside the number of the spoilt ballot paper to show that the ballot paper was replaced.

(4) Where the election is taken with a relevant election or referendum the voter must only receive a replacement for a spoilt or returned ballot paper.

(5) If the same corresponding number list is used for more than one Authority election in accordance with rule 38(8)—

(a) the marks made under paragraph (3) must identify the election for which a ballot paper has been replaced, and

(b) any ballot paper which the voter has not applied for or obtained as a replacement, but which bears the same ballot paper number as a ballot paper delivered under rule 38(1), or obtained under paragraph (1) or (2) of this rule—

(i) must not be delivered to the voter,

(ii) must be cancelled, and

(iii) for the purposes of these rules, must be treated as a spoilt ballot paper.

Correction of errors on day of poll U.K.

44.—(1) The presiding officer must keep a list of persons to whom ballot papers are delivered in consequence of an alteration to the register made by virtue of section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act which takes effect on the day of the poll.

(2) The same list may be used for each relevant election or referendum, and where it is so used, an entry in that list must be taken to mean that ballot papers were delivered in respect of each election or referendum, unless the list identifies the election or referendum at which a tendered ballot paper was marked.

Adjournment of poll in case of riot U.K.

45.—(1) Where the proceedings at any polling station are interrupted or obstructed by riot or open violence, the presiding officer must adjourn the proceedings till the following day and must forthwith give notice to the CRO.

(2) Where the poll is adjourned at any polling station—

(a) the hours of polling on the day to which it is adjourned must be the same as for the original day, and

(b) references in these Rules to the close of the poll must be construed accordingly.

(3) As soon as practicable after the CRO has received notice of the adjournment of a poll he must inform the GLRO of that fact and of the cause of its adjournment.

(4) If the CRO does not discharge the functions specified in regulation 5 of the Combination of Polls Regulations, then references in this rule to the CRO must be read as references to the returning officer who discharges those functions.

Procedure on close of poll U.K.

46.—(1) As soon as practicable after the close of the poll, the presiding officer must, in the presence of the polling agents appointed for the purposes of the election and each relevant election or referendum, make up into separate packets, sealed with his own seal and the seals of such polling agents as desire to affix their seals—

(a) each ballot box in use at the station, sealed so as to prevent the introduction of additional ballot papers and unopened, but with the key attached,

(b) the unused and spoilt ballot papers placed together,

(c) the tendered ballot papers,

(d) the marked copies of the register of electors (including any marked copy notices issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act) and of the list of proxies,

(e) the list prepared under rule 18, including the part completed in accordance with rule 38(1)(b) (together referred to in these Rules as “the completed corresponding number list”),

(f) the certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll,

(g) the tendered votes list, the list of voters with disabilities assisted by companions, the list of votes marked by the presiding officer, a statement of the number of voters whose votes are so marked by the presiding officer under the heads “disability” and “unable to read”, the list maintained under rule 44, and the declarations made by the companions of voters with disabilities,

and must deliver the packets or cause them to be delivered to the CRO to be taken charge of by him; but if the packets are not delivered by the presiding officer personally to the CRO, the arrangements for their delivery must be approved by the CRO.

(2) The contents of the packets referred to in paragraph (1)(b), (c) and (f) must not be combined with the contents of the packets made under the corresponding rule that applies at any other relevant election or referendum except for an Authority election.

(3) The marked copies of the register of electors and of the list of proxies must be in one packet but must not be in the same packet as the completed corresponding number list or the certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll.

(4) The packets must be accompanied by a statement (“the ballot paper account”) showing the number of ballot papers entrusted to the presiding officer, and accounting for them under the heads—

(a) ballot papers issued and not otherwise accounted for,

(b) unused ballot papers,

(c) spoilt ballot papers, and

(d) tendered ballot papers.

(5) At an ordinary election, the statement referred to in paragraph (4) may be combined with the statements produced in relation to any other Authority elections, but not with those for a relevant election or referendum, and the combined statement must be arranged in such manner as the GLRO may direct.

(6) Where the CRO does not discharge the functions specified in regulation 5 of the Combination of Polls Regulations, references in paragraph (1) to the CRO must be taken as references to the returning officer who discharges those functions.

Attendance at verification and the counting of votes U.K.

47.—(1) Where the CRO discharges the functions specified in regulation 5 of the Combination of Polls Regulations, he must—

(a) make arrangements for —

(i) carrying out the functions in rule 49(1) (separating ballot papers and verifying ballot paper accounts) at the election in the presence of the counting agents appointed for the purposes of the election and each relevant election and referendum as soon as practicable after the close of the poll, and

(ii) for counting the votes in the presence of the counting agents appointed for the purposes of the election,

(b) give to the counting agents appointed for the purposes of the election and each relevant election and referendum, notice in writing of the time and place at which he will begin carrying out the functions in rule 49(1).

(2) Where the CRO does not discharge the functions specified in regulation 5 of the Combination of Polls Regulations he must make arrangements for counting the votes in the presence of the counting agents appointed for the purposes of the election as soon as practicable after the delivery of the ballot papers to him by the returning officer who does discharge those functions; and the CRO must give to the counting agents for the election notice in writing of the time and place at which he will begin to count the votes.

(3) No person other than a person entitled to be present at the counting of the votes at the election and at each relevant election or referendum may be present at the proceedings under rule 49(1) (separating ballot papers and verifying ballot paper accounts) unless permitted by the CRO to attend.

(4) No person other than—

(a) the CRO and his clerks and technical assistants,

(b) the GLRO,

(c) the candidates and one other person chosen by each of them,

(d) the election agents,

(e) the counting agents,

(f) persons who are entitled to attend by virtue of any of sections 6A to 6D of the 2000 Act,

may be present at the counting of the votes in accordance with rule 49(2) to (14), unless permitted by the CRO to attend

(5) A person not entitled to attend at the separation and verification or the counting of the votes must not be permitted to do so by the CRO unless the CRO—

(a) is satisfied that the efficient separation and verification of the ballot paper accounts or, as the case may be, the efficient counting of the votes will not be impeded, and

(b) has either consulted the candidates or thought it impracticable to do so.

(6) The CRO must give the counting agents all such reasonable facilities for overseeing the proceedings, and all such information with respect to them, as he can give them consistently with the orderly conduct of the proceedings and the discharge of his duties in connection with them.

Use of the electronic counting system U.K.

48.—(1) The GLRO may provide the CRO with an electronic counting system consisting of computer hardware, software and other equipment or services, for the purpose of counting the number of ballot papers, to verify the ballot paper accounts and to count the votes cast on them.

(2) Any verification of ballot paper accounts, count or re-count at the election conducted using the electronic counting system must be conducted in accordance with rule 49.

(3) If the GLRO has provided the CRO with an electronic counting system for use at the election, the CRO must obtain the prior written consent of the GLRO before he may conduct the verification of ballot paper accounts or count the votes manually.

(4) If the verification of ballot paper accounts, count or re-count has commenced using the electronic counting system but has not been completed, the CRO may, if he considers it appropriate, discontinue the count and instead count the votes manually.

(5) Where the count or a re-count has been conducted using the electronic counting system, the CRO may, if he considers it appropriate, conduct any re-count without using that system.

(6) Where verification or any count or re-count is conducted using the electronic counting system, any of the steps referred to rule 49, in so far as practicable, may be undertaken—

(a) concurrently with any other of those steps, or

(b) in a different order.

Verification and the local count U.K.

49.—(1) Where the CRO discharges the functions specified in regulation 5 of the Combination of Polls Regulations, he must—

(a) in the presence of the counting agents appointed for the purposes of the election and each relevant election or referendum, open each ballot box from each polling station together, and record separately the number of ballot papers used in the election and each relevant election or referendum with which is it is taken,

(b) in the presence of the counting agents appointed for the purposes of the election and each relevant election or referendum, verify each ballot paper account at the election and for each relevant election or referendum,

(c) count such of the postal ballot papers as have been duly returned and record separately the number counted at the election and each relevant election or referendum,

(d) where the same ballot boxes have been used for the election and each relevant election or referendum, separate the ballot papers for all of the Authority elections from those for any other relevant election or referendum.

(e) make up into packets the ballot papers for each relevant election or referendum (not including those for any Authority election) and seal them up in separate containers endorsing on each a description of the area to which the ballot papers relate,

(f) deliver or cause to be delivered to the returning officer for the relevant election or referendum to which the ballot papers relate—

(i) those containers, together with a list of them and of the contents of each, and

(ii) the ballot paper accounts together with a copy of the statement as to the result of their verification in respect of that relevant election or referendum, and

(g) at the same time deliver to that officer the packets that so relate containing–

(i) the unused and spoilt ballot papers,

(ii) the tendered ballot papers, and

(iii) the completed corresponding number lists of the used ballot papers and the certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll.

(2) Where the CRO does not discharge the functions specified in regulation 5 of the Combination of Polls Regulations, and the votes on the ballot papers are not to be counted concurrently with the votes on the ballot papers at a relevant election or referendum, he must—

(a) on receipt of the containers of ballot papers from the returning officer who does discharge those functions, and after the time specified in the notice given by him in writing to the counting agents under rule 47(2), open each container in the presence of the counting agents;

(b) where the proceedings on the issue and receipt of postal ballot papers at the election are not taken together with those proceedings at a relevant election or referendum under regulation 65 of the Representation of the People (England and Wales) Regulations 2001 M102 , or under that regulation as applied by regulations made under sections 44 and 105, or 45 and 105, of the Local Government Act 2000 M103 , count such of the postal ballot papers as have been duly returned and record the number counted,

and paragraph (10) below does not apply to these proceedings.

(3) Where separate ballot boxes are used for the ballots at the election and each relevant election and referendum, no vote for any candidate shall be rendered invalid by the ballot paper being placed in the ballot box used at any relevant election or referendum.

(4) Where the same ballot boxes are used for the election and other Authority elections, but not for other relevant elections or referendums—

(a) the CRO must not mix the ballot papers for Authority elections from any ballot box or container with the contents of any other ballot box or container (including a postal ballot box) during the conduct of verification (where this occurs under paragraph (1)), the count or any re-count;

(b) the ballot boxes from each polling station for the Authority elections shall be opened together and the ballot papers counted (but not necessarily the votes on them) and verified together.

(5) A postal ballot paper must not be taken to be duly returned unless—

(a) it is returned in the manner set out in paragraph (6) and reaches the CRO or any polling station in the appropriate area (as defined in paragraph (7)) F122 ... before the close of the poll,

(b) the postal voting statement, duly signed, is also returned in the manner set out in paragraph (6) and reaches him or such polling station before that time,

(c) the postal voting statement also states the date of birth of the elector or proxy (as the case may be), and

(d) in a case where the steps for verifying the date of birth and signature of an elector or proxy have been prescribed by regulations made under the 1983 Act M104 , the CRO (having taken such steps) verifies the date of birth and signature of the elector or proxy (as the case may be).

(6) The manner in which any postal paper or postal voting statement may be returned—

(a) to the CRO, is by hand or by post,

(b) to a polling station in the appropriate area, is by hand.

[F123 (6A) A postal ballot paper or postal voting statement that reaches the CRO or a polling station in the appropriate area at or after the close of the poll is treated for the purposes of paragraph (5) as reaching that officer or polling station before the close of the poll if it is delivered by a person who, at the close of the poll, is in the polling station, or in a queue outside the polling station, for the purpose of returning it.]

(7) For the purposes of paragraphs [F124 (5), (6) and (6A)], “polling station in the appropriate area” means a polling station—

(a) in the area which is common to the Assembly constituency, and parliamentary constituency, local counting area, electoral area or voting area, as the case may be, in which the polls at the Authority election and a relevant election or referendum are being taken together, and

(b) in respect of which polls the voter has been issued with a postal ballot paper.

(8) After completing the proceedings in paragraph (1) or (2), the CRO must cause the electronic counting system to process the ballot papers for the election so as to count—

(a) the number of ballot papers, and

(b) votes given on the ballot papers.

(9) The CRO must not cause the electronic counting system to count any tendered ballot paper.

(10) Subject to paragraph (11), the CRO must verify each ballot paper account by comparing it with the number of ballot papers recorded by him, and the unused and spoilt ballot papers in his possession and the tendered votes list (opening and resealing the packets containing the unused and spoilt ballot papers and the tendered votes list) and must draw up a statement as to the result of the verification, which any election agent may copy.

(11) The CRO may verify each ballot paper account for the election by comparing it with the number of ballot papers processed by the electronic counting system, and the unused and spoilt ballot papers in his possession and the tendered votes list (opening and resealing the packets containing the unused and spoilt ballot papers and the tendered votes list).

(12) The CRO, while verifying the ballot paper accounts and counting the votes, must take all proper precautions for preventing any person from seeing the numbers printed on the back of the papers.

(13) The CRO must so far as practicable proceed continuously with counting the votes, allowing only time for refreshment, except that the hours between 5 in the afternoon and 10 on the following morning may be excluded with the prior consent of the GLRO.

(14) During the time so excluded the CRO must—

(a) place the ballot papers and other documents relating to the election under his own seal and the seals of such of the counting agents as desire to affix their seals, and

(b) otherwise take proper precautions for the security of the papers and documents.

Textual Amendments

F122 Words in Sch. 7 rule 49(5)(a) omitted (8.2.2016) by virtue of The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 9(6)(b)(i)

F123 Sch. 7 rule 49(6A) inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 9(6)(b)(ii)

F124 Words in Sch. 7 rule 49(7) substituted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 9(6)(b)(iii)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C13 Sch. 7 para. 49(2)(b) modified (3.8.2012) by The Neighbourhood Planning (Referendums) Regulations 2012 (S.I. 2012/2031), regs. 1, 8, 12, 13, Sch. 4 para. 29(a)(b)

Marginal Citations

M102 S.I. 2001/341.

M103 c. 22. Sections 44 and 45 were amended by the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 (c. 41) and section 105 was amended by section 105 of the Local Government Act 2003 (c. 26).

M104 See regulation 85 and 85A of the Representation of the People (England and Wales) Regulations 2001 (S.I. 2001/341), which were inserted by S.I. 2006/2910.

Rejected ballot papers U.K.

50.—(1) Any ballot paper—

(a) which does not bear the official mark,

(b) on which anything is written or marked by which the voter can be identified except the printed number and other unique identifying mark on the back,

(c) which is unmarked,

(d) which is void for uncertainty,

is, subject to paragraph (2), void and must not be counted.

(2) A ballot paper on which a vote is marked—

(a) elsewhere than in the proper place, or

(b) otherwise than by means of a cross, or

(c) by more than one mark,

must not for such reason be void if—

(i) at an election at which more than two candidates remain validly nominated, an intention that a first preference vote be given for not more than one of the candidates clearly appears,

(ii) at any other election, an intention that a vote is for one only of the candidates clearly appears.

(3) A ballot paper which—

(a) is not void, and

(b) on which an intention that a second preference vote be given for not more than one of the candidates clearly appears,

will be valid as respects that second preference vote and must be counted accordingly.

(4) Where the electronic counting system identifies a ballot paper that has been marked, but which appears—

(a) to be void, or

(b) to contain a first preference vote that can be counted, and another mark that cannot be counted as a second preference vote,

then that ballot paper must be examined by a clerk appointed by the CRO in the manner referred to in paragraph (7).

(5) If the clerk, having examined the ballot paper, considers that—

(a) it is void, or

(b) that it is marked with a first preference vote that can be counted, but that it is not marked with a second preference vote that can be counted,

then the CRO must examine it in the manner referred to in paragraph (7).

(6) After the CRO examines the ballot paper, he must give his decision as to whether or not—

(a) it is void, or

(b) it is marked with a second preference vote that can be counted.

(7) An examination under paragraph (4) or (5) is to be made by the clerk or CRO examining an image of the ballot paper which is shown on a screen so as to be visible to those attending the count.

(8) The CRO may examine any ballot paper that he is not required to examine in accordance with paragraphs (5)—

(a) either in the manner referred to in paragraph (7), or

(b) by examining a paper copy,

and where the CRO does so, he must give a decision on that paper in accordance with paragraph (6),

(9) No person attending the count is to be entitled to require the clerk or CRO to examine a ballot paper or to provide a paper copy for inspection.

(10) A record of the CRO's decision under paragraph (6) must be retained in the electronic counting system together, in the case of a decision that the ballot is void, with his reasons by reference to paragraph (1).

(11) If a counting agent objects to the CRO's decision that the ballot paper—

(a) is void, or

(b) is marked with a second preference vote that cannot be counted,

the CRO must record on the electronic counting system that the decision was objected to.

(12) A record must be retained in the electronic counting system of the number of ballot papers which are not void, but on which a second preference vote has not been counted because—

(a) a vote has not been marked,

(b) a vote has been given for more than one candidate, or

(c) there is uncertainty as to for whom a vote was given.

(13) The CRO must draw up a statement showing the number of rejected ballot papers under the several heads of—

(a) want of an official mark,

(b) voting for more than one candidate as to first preference vote,

(c) writing or mark by which the voter could be identified,

(d) unmarked as to the first preference vote, and

(e) void for uncertainty.

(14) As soon as practicable after the completion of the statement under paragraph (13) the CRO must inform—

(a) such candidates, election agents and counting agents as are present at the count, and

(b) the GLRO,

of its contents.

(15) The CRO must also include in the statement drawn up under paragraph (13), the numbers of second preference votes for which a record has been retained, set out under the several heads in subparagraphs (12)(a) to (c).

Decisions on ballot papers U.K.

51.  The decision of the CRO on any question arising in respect of a ballot paper is final, but may be subject to review on an election petition.

Re-count U.K.

52.—(1) A candidate or his election agent or a counting agent authorised under rule 30(3) may, if present when the counting or any re-count of the votes, is completed, require the CRO to have the votes re-counted or again re-counted but the CRO may refuse to do so if in his opinion the request is unreasonable.

(2) No step may be taken on the completion of the counting or any re-count of votes, until the candidates and election agents and counting agents authorised under rule 30(1) present at its completion have been given a reasonable opportunity to exercise the right conferred by this rule.

(3) The CRO may determine the extent to which any re-count involves the electronic counting of votes.

(4) When the returning officer uses the electronic counting system for the re-counting of votes, he must not re-consider any decision made on any ballot paper under rule 50(6).

Procedure at conclusion of local count U.K.

53.—(1) As soon as practicable after the conclusion of the local count (including any re-count), the CRO must draw up a statement showing—

(a) the total number of ballot papers used,

(b) the total number of rejected ballot papers,

(c) at an election contested by more than two candidates—

(i) the total number of first preference votes given,

(ii) the number of first preference votes given for each candidate, and

(iii) the total number of second preference votes given for each candidate correlated with the way the first preference votes have been cast.

(d) at an election contested by only two candidates, the number of votes given for each candidate.

(2) As soon as practicable after the statement is drawn up under paragraph (1), the CRO must inform the GLRO of its contents, and if it is practicable to do so, must also provide that information so as to show the total number of votes under each of those heads in each ward.

(3) As soon as practicable after the GLRO has authorised him to do so, the CRO must—

(a) inform such of the candidates and their election agents as are then present of the contents of the statements prepared in accordance with rule 50 and paragraph (1) of this rule, and

(b) give public notice of the contents of those statements.

Attendance at the central calculation U.K.

54.—(1) The GLRO must make arrangements for making the calculations made under rules 55 and 56 in the presence of the election agents and he must give to those agents notice in writing of the time and place at which he will begin the calculation.

(2) No person other than—

(a) the GLRO and his clerks,

(b) the CROs and a clerk or technical assistant chosen by each of them,

(c) the candidates and one person chosen by each of them,

(d) the election agents,

(e) persons who are entitled to attend by virtue of any of sections 6A to 6D of the 2000 Act,

(f) at an ordinary election, the persons permitted to be present at the central calculation at the election of the Mayor of London,

may be present at a calculation, unless permitted by the GLRO to attend.

(3) A person not entitled to attend a calculation must not be permitted to do so by the GLRO unless he—

(a) is satisfied that the efficiency of the calculation will not be impeded, and

(b) has either consulted the election agents or thought it impracticable to do so.

The first calculation and resolution of equality U.K.

55.—(1) As soon as the GLRO has received the information required by rule 53 from every CRO he must—

(a) in relation to an election contested by more than two candidates, ascertain the total of the first preference votes given in the Assembly constituencies to each candidate, and

(b) in relation to an election contested by only two candidates, ascertain the total number of votes given in the Assembly constituencies to each candidate.

(2) As soon as the GLRO has ascertained the result of the calculation, he must inform such of the election agents as are then present of the relevant figures and must give them a reasonable opportunity to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the calculation.

(3) In paragraph (2), “the relevant figures” means—

(a) in the case of an election contested by more than two candidates, the number of first preference votes given in each of the Assembly constituencies for each candidate and the calculation undertaken by the GLRO for the purposes of ascertaining whether a candidate is to be returned in accordance with paragraph 3 of Schedule 2 to the 1999 Act (candidate with overall majority of first preference votes),

(b) in the case of an election contested by only two candidates, the number of votes given in each Assembly constituency for each candidate and the total number of votes given for each candidate.

(4) Where an election is contested by more than two candidates—

(a) if paragraph 3 of Schedule 2 to the 1999 Act applies (candidate with overall majority of first preference votes) the declaration of the person to be returned as the Mayor must be made in accordance with rule 58, or

(b) if paragraph 4(1) of that Schedule applies (no candidate with overall majority of first preference votes), the GLRO must proceed with the second calculation in accordance with Part 5.

(5) Where an election is contested by only two candidates and the total number of votes given for each of them is unequal the person to be returned as the Mayor is the candidate to whom the majority of the votes is given.

(6) Where an election is contested by only two candidates and the total number of votes given for each of them is equal, the person to be returned as the Mayor is the person whom the GLRO decides, in accordance with paragraph 4(8) of Schedule 2 to the 1999 Act, is to be returned as the Mayor.

(7) In a case to which paragraph (5) or (6) applies, the declaration of the person to be returned as the Mayor must be made in accordance with rule 58.

PART 5 U.K. Further Provision: More Than Two Candidates

The second calculation and resolution of equality U.K.

56.—(1) As soon as the GLRO has determined that paragraph 4(1) of Schedule 2 to the 1999 Act applies he must comply with paragraphs 4(5) and (6) of Schedule 2 to the 1999 Act.

(2) As soon as the GLRO has ascertained the result of the second calculation, he must provide such of the election agents for those candidates who remain in the contest as are then present with a copy of the relevant figures and must give them a reasonable opportunity to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the calculation.

(3) In paragraph (2), “the relevant figures” means—

(a) the number of second preference votes given in each of the Assembly constituencies for each of the candidates remaining in the contest, and

(b) the calculation undertaken by the GLRO for the purpose of ascertaining the total number of first and second preference votes given to each of those candidates.

(4) If, after the second calculation, the total number of votes given for two or more candidates is equal, the person to be returned as the Mayor is the person whom the GLRO decides, in accordance with paragraph 4(8) of Schedule 2 to the 1999 Act, is to be returned as the Mayor.

PART 6 U.K. Final Proceedings In Contested And Uncontested Elections

Declaration of result U.K.

57.—(1) The GLRO must declare to be elected as the Mayor of London the candidate who, in accordance with section 4(2) of the 1999 Act or Part I of Schedule 2 to that Act (including those provisions as applied by section 16(4) at an election to fill a vacancy), as the case may be, is to be returned as the Mayor at that election.

(2) The GLRO must give public notice of—

(a) the name of the of the person declared to be elected and his authorised description, if any, within the meaning of rule 6(5) or (7),

(b) the total number of first preference votes given for each candidate,

(c) the total number of second preference votes given for each of the candidates remaining in the contest after the count of the first preference votes,

(d) the number of rejected ballot papers at the election under each head shown in the statement of rejected ballot papers, and

(e) the number of ballot papers on which no second preference vote was counted under each head shown in the statement of rejected ballot papers,

(3) In an uncontested election, the GLRO must as soon as practicable after the latest time for the delivery of notices of withdrawals of candidature—

(a) declare to be elected the candidate remaining validly nominated, and

(b) give public notice of the name of the person declared to be elected and his authorised description, if any, within the meaning of rule 6(5) or (7).

(4) Subject to paragraph (5), after the GLRO complies with paragraphs (1) and (2), he may in so far as is practicable, give public notice of the information referred to paragraph (2)(b) to (e) so as to set out the number of votes falling under each of those heads, in respect of each ward.

(5) Where the sum of first preference votes given for all candidates in any ward does not exceed 500, the GLRO must not give notice under paragraph (4) in respect of that ward alone, but must amalgamate the figures for that ward with those for any other ward in which more than 500 votes have been given, in the same Assembly constituency.

Return or forfeiture of candidate's deposit U.K.

58.—(1) Unless forfeited in accordance with paragraph (5), the deposit made under rule 9 must be returned to the person making it or his personal representative.

(2) Subject to paragraph (4), the deposit must be returned not later than the next day after that on which the result of the election is declared.

(3) For the purposes of paragraph (2)—

(a) a day must be disregarded if, in accordance with rule 4, it would be disregarded in computing any period of time for the purposes of the timetable for the election, and

(b) the deposit must be treated as being returned on a day if a cheque for the amount of the deposit is posted on that day.

(4) If the candidate is not shown as standing nominated in the statement of persons nominated, or if proof of his death has been given to the GLRO before the first calculation under rule 55, the deposit must be returned as soon as practicable after the publication of the statement or after his death, as the case may be.

(5) Where a poll is taken, if, after the first calculation under rule 55, the candidate is found not to have polled more than one-twentieth of the total number of first preference votes polled by all the candidates, the deposit must be forfeited to the Greater London Authority.

PART 7 U.K. Disposal Of Documents

Sealing up of ballot papers U.K.

59.—(1) On the completion of the counting at a contested election the CRO must seal up in separate packets the counted and rejected ballot papers.

(2) Where some or all of the votes have been counted using the electronic counting system, the CRO must also seal up in a separate packet a complete electronic record (“the electronic record”) of the information stored in the electronic counting system, held in such device as may be suitable for the purpose of its storage.

(3) After making the electronic record under paragraph (2), the CRO must arrange for the original records in the electronic counting system to be removed from it and destroyed in a manner that ensures that the secrecy of those records is preserved.

(4) The CRO must not open the sealed packets of—

(a) tendered ballot papers, or

(b) certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll.

(5) Where the CRO discharges the functions referred to in regulation 5 of the Combination of Polls Regulations, he must also not open the sealed packets of—

(a) the completed corresponding number lists,

(b) marked copies of the register of electors (including any marked copy notices issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act) and lists of proxies.

Delivery and retention of documents U.K.

60.—(1) The CRO must then forward the following documents to the relevant registration officer—

(a) the packets of ballot papers in his possession,

(b) the packet containing the electronic record (if any),

(c) the ballot paper accounts and the statements of rejected ballot papers and of the result of the verification of the ballot paper accounts,

(d) the tendered votes lists, the lists of voters with disabilities assisted by companions, the lists of votes marked by the presiding officer and the related statements, the lists maintained under rule 44 and the declarations made by the companions of voters with disabilities,

(e) the packets of the completed corresponding number lists,

(f) the packets of certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll, and

(g) the packets containing marked copies of registers (including any marked copy notices issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act) and of the postal voters list, of the lists of proxies and of the proxy postal voters list,

endorsing on each packet a description of its contents, the date of the election to which they relate and the name of the Assembly constituency for which the election was held.

(2) At an election where the returning officer does not discharge the functions referred to in regulation 5 of the Combination of Polls Regulations, paragraph (1) must have effect as if sub paragraphs (d), (e) and (f) were omitted.

Orders for production of documents U.K.

61.—(1) An order—

(a) for the inspection or production of any rejected ballot papers in the custody of the relevant registration officer, or

(b) for the opening of a packet containing the electronic record or a sealed packet of completed corresponding number lists or certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll or the inspection of any counted ballot papers in the custody of the relevant registration officer,

may be made by a county court, if the court is satisfied by evidence on oath that the order is required for the purpose of instituting or maintaining a prosecution for an offence in relation to ballot papers, or for the purpose of an election petition.

(2) An election court may make an order for the opening of a packet containing the electronic record or a sealed packet of completed corresponding number lists or certificates or for the inspection of any counted ballot papers in the custody of the relevant registration officer.

(3) An order under this rule may be made subject to such conditions as to—

(a) persons,

(b) time,

(c) place and mode of inspection,

(d) production or opening,

as the court making the order thinks expedient; but in making and carrying into effect an order for the opening of a packet containing the electronic record or a packet of completed corresponding number lists or certificates or for the inspection of counted ballot papers, care must be taken that the way in which the vote of any particular elector has been given must not be disclosed until it has been proved—

(i) that his vote was given, and

(ii) that the vote has been declared by a competent court to be invalid.

(4) An appeal lies to the High Court from any order of a county court under this rule.

(5) Any power given under this rule to a county court may be exercised by any judge of the court otherwise than in open court.

(6) Where an order is made for the production by the relevant registration officer of any document in his custody relating to any specified election—

(a) the production by him or his agent of the document or electronic record ordered in such manner as may be directed by that order will be conclusive evidence that the document or electronic record relates to the specified election, and

(b) any endorsement on any packet of ballot papers so produced will be prima facie evidence that the ballot papers are what they are stated to be by the endorsement.

(7) The production from proper custody of —

(a) a ballot paper purporting to have been used at any election, or

(b) a copy of the electronic record which purports to record that a particular ballot paper was used at any election, and

a completed corresponding number list with a number written beside the number of the ballot paper, will be prima facie evidence that the elector whose vote was given by that ballot paper was the person who, at the time of the election, had affixed to his entry in the register of electors or on the notice issued under section 13B(3B) or (3D) of the 1983 Act, the same number as was written on the completed corresponding number list.

(8) Unless authorised by this rule, no person may be allowed to inspect any rejected or counted ballot papers in the custody of the relevant registration officer or open any sealed packets of completed corresponding number lists, certificates of employment on the day of the poll or containing the electronic record.

Retention and destruction of documents and records U.K.

62.  The relevant registration officer must retain or cause to be retained for one year all documents and, where applicable, electronic records relating to an election forwarded to him in pursuance of these Rules by a CRO, and then, unless otherwise directed by an order of a county court, a Crown Court, a magistrate's court or an election court, must cause them to be destroyed.

PART 8 U.K. Death Of Candidate

Deceased independent candidate U.K.

63.—(1) This rule applies if at a contested election proof is given to the GLRO's satisfaction before the result of the election is declared that one of the persons named or to be named in the ballot papers as an independent candidate has died.

(2) Subject to this rule and rules 65 and 66, these rules apply to the election as if the candidate had not died.

(3) The following provisions of these rules do not apply in relation to the deceased candidate—

(a) rule 33(1)(c) and (d) (admission to polling station),

(b) rule 47(3)(c) to (e) (attendance at count),

(c) rule 58(5) (forfeiture of deposit).

(4) If only two persons are shown as standing nominated in the statement of persons nominated the GLRO must—

(a) if polling has not begun, countermand the notice of poll,

(b) if polling has begun, direct that the poll is abandoned, and

(c) subject to rule 66, treat the election as an uncontested election.

(5) For the purposes of this rule a person is named or to be named on the ballot papers as an independent candidate if the description (if any) on his nomination paper is not authorised as mentioned in rule 6(5) or (7).

Deceased independent candidate wins U.K.

64.—(1) This rule applies if at an election mentioned in rule 63 either—

(a) the deceased candidate is given a majority of votes in accordance with rules 55(5) or (6),

(b) the deceased candidate is given more than half of all the first preference votes in accordance with rule 55(4)(a), or

(c) the deceased candidate is given the greatest total number of votes following the second calculation in accordance with rule 56.

(2) Rule 57 (declaration of result) does not apply but the GLRO must—

(a) declare that the majority or greatest total number of votes has been given to the deceased candidate,

(b) declare that no person is returned, and

(c) give public notice of the relevant figures supplied to election agents in accordance with rules 56(2) and 57(2) together with the number of rejected ballot papers under each head shown in the statement of rejected ballot papers.

(3) The provisions of these Rules as to the inspection, production, retention and destruction of ballot papers and other documents apply to any documents relating to a poll to which paragraph (1) applies as they would if the election had resulted in a declaration under rule 57.

(4) Rule 58 (return or forfeiture of candidate's deposit) does not apply in relation to the remaining candidates.

(5) The election must be commenced afresh within the period of 35 days (computed in accordance with rule 4) beginning with the day of the election to which paragraph (1) applies.

(6) The proceedings with reference to the recommenced election must be conducted in accordance with these Rules as modified by the following provisions of this rule and the provisions in the By-election timetable.

(7) No fresh nomination is necessary in the case of a person shown in the statement of persons nominated for the election to which paragraph (1) applies, and no other nomination may be made for the recommenced election.

(8) Instead of the information required by rule 5(1)(a) (date by which nomination papers must be received), the notice of election issued at the recommenced election must state that no fresh nomination may be made.

(9) Rule 9 (deposit) does not apply.

Party candidate U.K.

65.—(1) This rule applies if—

(a) at a contested election, proof is given to the GLRO's satisfaction before the result of the election is declared that one of the persons named or to be named as a candidate in the ballot paper has died, and

(b) that person is standing in the name of a registered party.

(2) The GLRO must—

(a) countermand notice of the poll, or

(b) if polling has begun, direct that the poll be abandoned,

and the provisions of section 39(1) and (5) (local elections void etc. in England and Wales) of the 1983 Act apply in respect of the unfilled vacancy.

(3) For the purposes of this rule—

(a) a person stands in the name of a registered party if his nomination paper contains a description which is authorised as mentioned in rule 6(5) or (7).

(b) a registered party is a party which is registered under Part 2 of the 2000 Act.

Abandoned poll U.K.

66.—(1) This rule applies to—

(a) a poll which is abandoned in pursuance of rule 63(4)(b) as if it were a poll at a contested election, or

(b) a poll which is abandoned in pursuance of rule 65(2)

(2) The presiding officer at any polling station must take the like steps (so far as not already taken) for the delivery to the CRO of the ballot box and of ballot papers and other documents in his possession as he is required to do on the close of the poll.

(3) The CRO must dispose of the ballot papers and other documents in his possession as he is required to do on the completion of the counting of the votes.

(4) It is not necessary for a ballot paper account to be prepared or verified.

(5) The CRO must take no step or further step for the counting of the ballot papers or of the votes.

(6) The CRO must seal up all the ballot papers (whether the votes on them have been counted or not) and it will not be necessary to seal up counted and rejected ballot papers in separate packets.

(7) The provisions of these Rules as to the inspection, production, retention and destruction of ballot papers and other documents relating to a poll at an election apply subject to the modifications in paragraphs (8) and (9).

(8) Ballot papers on which the votes were neither counted nor rejected must be treated as counted ballot papers.

(9) No order is to be made for—

(a) the production or inspection of any ballot papers, or

(b) for the opening of a sealed packet of completed corresponding number lists or certificates as to employment on duty on the day of the poll,

unless the order is made by a court with reference to a prosecution.

(10) The countermand of the notice of poll or abandonment of the poll at the election, will not effect the poll at each relevant election or referendum.

Rule 6

SCHEDULE 8 U.K. COMBINED MANUAL COUNT RULES

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C14 Sch. 8 applied (with modifications) (18.2.2012) by The Local Authorities (Conduct of Referendums) (Council Tax Increases) (England) Regulations 2012 (S.I. 2012/444), reg. 1, Sch. 4 para. 1 Table 11 (with reg. 27)

Citation U.K.

1.  This Schedule may be cited as the Combined Manual Count Rules.

Interpretation U.K.

2.—(1) In this Schedule—

“CMER” means the Constituency Members Election Rules in Schedule 5;

“LMER” means the London Members Election Rules in Schedule 6;

“MER” means the Mayoral Election Rules in Schedule 7;

“relevant election or referendum” means one or more of the following—

(a)

a Parliamentary election,

(b)

a European Parliamentary election,

(c)

a local government election (including another Authority election where more than one is taken together),

(d)

a local authority mayoral election or referendum in accordance with regulations made under sections 44 and 105, or 45 and 105, of the Local Government Act 2000 M105 .

(2) If the votes at an Authority election, which is combined with a relevant election or referendum, are counted without the use of an electronic counting system, the CMER, the LMER and the MER, will have effect as if the provisions listed in column (1) of Table 1 were modified as shown in column (2).

Table 1

(1)Rule(s)	(2)Modification
[F125 CMER rule 17 (ballot papers)	In paragraph (3)(a) omit “, so far as practicable for the purposes of electronic counting,”]
[F125 LMER rule 18 (ballot papers)	In paragraph (4)(a) omit “, so far as practicable for the purposes of electronic counting,”]
[F125 MER rule 17 (ballot papers)	In paragraph (3)(a) omit “, so far as practicable for the purposes of electronic counting,”]
CMER rule 47 (attendance at verification and the Counting of votes) LMER rule 48 (attendance at verification and the local count) MER rule 47 (attendance at verification and the local count)	In paragraph (4)(a) omit the words “and technical assistants”. After paragraph (6) insert— “(7) In particular, where the votes are counted by sorting the ballot papers according to the candidate for whom the vote is given and then counting the number of ballot papers for each candidate, the counting agents must be entitled to satisfy themselves that the ballot papers are correctly sorted.”.
CMER rule 49 (verification and the count) LMER rule 50 (verification and the local count)	After paragraph (1)(d) insert— “(da) separate the ballot papers relating to the election from those relating to the other Authority elections.”. After paragraph (2)(b) insert— “(c) mix together the postal ballot papers and the ballot papers from all of the containers and count the votes given on them,”. Omit paragraph (4). For paragraph (8) substitute— “(8) After completing the proceedings under paragraph (1) or (2), the CRO must mix together the ballot papers used at the election and count the votes given on them.” In paragraph (9) omit “cause the electronic counting system to”. Omit paragraph (11).
MER rule 49 (verification and the local count)	After paragraph (1)(d) insert— “(da) separate the ballot papers relating to the election from those relating to the other Authority elections.”. After paragraph (2)(b) insert— “(c) mix together the postal ballot papers and the ballot papers from all of the containers and count the votes given on them,”. Omit paragraph (4). For paragraph (8) substitute— “(8) After completing the proceedings under paragraph (1) and (2), the CRO must mix together all of the ballot papers used at the election in the Assembly constituency and— (a) where the election is contested by more than two candidates, count the first preference votes given on them, (b) where the election is contested by only two candidates, count the votes given on them.”. In paragraph (9) omit “cause the electronic counting system to”. Omit paragraph (11).
CMER rule 50 LMER rule 51 (rejected ballot papers)	For paragraph (3) substitute— “(3) The CRO must endorse the word “rejected” on any ballot paper which under this rule is not to be counted, and must add to the endorsement the words “rejection objected to” if any objection to his decision is made by a counting agent.”. Omit paragraphs (4) – (10).
MER rule 50 (rejected ballot Papers)	For paragraph (4) substitute— “(4) The CRO must endorse the word “rejected” on any ballot paper which under this rule is not to be counted, and must add to the endorsement the words “rejection objected to” if any objection to his decision is made by a counting agent.” Omit paragraphs (5) to (12). Omit subparagraph (13)(e) and for sub-paragraph (13)(d) substitute— “(d) unmarked or void for uncertainty as to the first preference vote.”.
LMER rule 54 (procedure at conclusion of local count)	For paragraph (2) substitute— “(2) As soon as practicable after the statement is drawn up under paragraph (1), the CRO must inform the GLRO of its contents.”.
MER rule 53 (procedure at Conclusion of local count)	Omit paragraph (1)(c)(iii). For paragraph (2) substitute— “(2) As soon as practicable after the statement is drawn up under paragraph (1), the CRO must inform the GLRO of its contents.”.
LMER rule 55 (attendance at allocation of seats) MER rule 54 (attendance at the central calculation)	In paragraph (2)(b) omit “or technical assistant”.
MER rule 55 (the first calculation and resolution of equality)	For paragraph (4)(b) substitute— “(b) if paragraph 4(1) of that Schedule applies (no candidate with overall majority of first preference votes), the GLRO must direct every CRO at the election who has counted manually to count the second preference votes given as mentioned in paragraph 4(5) of that Schedule.”. In Part 5, before rule 56 insert— “The count of second preference votes 56ZA.— (1) As soon as the CRO has received such a direction as is mentioned in rule 55(4)(b) he must count the number of second preference votes for each of the candidates remaining in the contest given by voters who did not give their first preference vote to any of those candidates. (2) A ballot paper which is not otherwise void and on which not more than one second preference vote is marked will be valid as respects that vote and must be counted accordingly if, but only if, a valid first preference vote has also been marked. (3) Rules 47, 49, 50, 53 and 55 will apply in relation to the count of second preference votes as they apply in relation to the count of first preference votes, and as if references to first preference votes were references to second preference votes. (4) The CRO may not be required to re-examine any decision taken under rule 50. (5) As soon as practicable after the second preference votes have been counted, the CRO must inform the GLRO of the number of second preference votes cast for each of the candidates remaining in the contest.”.
MER rule 56 (the second calculation and resolution of equality)	For paragraph (1) substitute— “(1) As soon as the GLRO has received the information required by rule 56ZA(5) from every CRO he must comply with paragraph 4(5) and (6) of Schedule 2 to the 1999 Act.”.
CMER rule 54 (declaration of result)	Omit paragraphs (2) and (3).
LMER rule 57 (declaration of result)	Omit paragraphs (3) and (4).
MER rule 57 (declaration of result)	Omit paragraphs (2)(e), (4) and (5).

Textual Amendments

F125 Words in Sch. 8 rule 2(1) Table 1 inserted (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 8(8)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C15 Sch. 8 para. 2(1) modified (3.8.2012) by The Neighbourhood Planning (Referendums) Regulations 2012 (S.I. 2012/2031), regs. 1, 8, 12, 13, Sch. 4 para. 30

Marginal Citations

M105 2000 c.22. Sections 44 and 45 were amended by the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 (c. 41).

Rule 9

SCHEDULE 9 U.K. REQUIREMENTS FOR NOTICES FOR GUIDANCE OF VOTERS

Interpretation U.K.

1.  In this Schedule—

“CMER” means the Constituency Members Election Rules in Schedule 1 or 5;

“LMER” means the London Members Election Rules in Schedule 2 or 6;

“MER” means the Mayoral Election Rules in Schedule 3 or 7.

Requirement relating to all notices U.K.

2.  Notices must be provided by the GLRO for the guidance of voters in accordance with the CMER, LMER, MER.

3.  Notices for the guidance of voters to be exhibited— U.K.

(a) outside the polling station,

(b) inside the polling station—

(i) in the communal areas, and

(ii) in a voting compartment,

may differ depending on where they are to be displayed.

4.  Notices provided must be of the same description and appearance or in a form to the like effect for use at all polling stations in all Assembly constituencies. U.K.

5.  Notices may contain any information providing guidance to voters as to how to exercise their vote in a manner that will ensure that it is regarded as validly cast and can be efficiently processed by the electronic counting system if one is in use, but must not contain— U.K.

(a) any material referring to or promoting any candidate or party at the election, other than such name and particulars of such candidate or registered party as may appear on a ballot paper at the election, or

(b) any example or illustration referring to a candidate or a registered party that does not equally refer to all candidates and registered parties (as the case may be) at the election.

Requirements relating to specific notices U.K.

6.  Notices for display inside a polling station must contain information explaining—

(a) which election each ballot paper is for,

(b) how many votes a voter has in each election,

(c) the marks to be used, and the manner in which they should be used, in order to ensure that a vote is counted for any candidate or party (as the case may be),

(d) whether or not the voter should fold the ballot paper in two before showing the presiding officer the number and the other unique identifying mark on the back and putting it in the ballot box,

(e) which ballot box the voter is to put their ballot paper into after recording their vote, and

(f) what to do if the voter spoils a ballot paper.

7.  Notices for display inside a polling station may also contain information giving examples or illustrating of any of the kinds of information in paragraph 5 of this Schedule. U.K.

8.  Notices for display inside a voting compartment shall contain information explaining— U.K.

(a) which election each ballot paper is for,

(b) how many votes a voter has in each election.

9.  Notices for display inside a polling booth may also contain— U.K.

(a) the information mentioned in paragraph 6(c) to (f) of this Schedule, and

(b) information giving examples or illustration of any of the information mentioned in paragraph 6(a) to (f) of this Schedule.

10.  All notices shall be easily legible. U.K.

SCHEDULE 10 U.K. Schedule of Forms

Interpretation U.K.

1.  In this Schedule—

“CMER” means the Constituency Members Election Rules in Schedule 1 or 5;

“LMER” means the London Members Election Rules in Schedule 2 or 6;

“MER” means the Mayoral Election Rules in Schedule 3 or 7.

2.  The forms in this Schedule may be adapted so far as circumstances require [F126 (and in particular, for the purposes of electronic counting)], but any adaptation made by the CRO must, where appropriate, be in compliance with any direction issued by the GLRO under rule 11. U.K.

Forms

Form 1: Nomination paper (constituency and individual London member candidates)

Form 2: Nomination paper (London member party list candidates)

Form 3: Nomination paper (Mayor of London candidates)

Form 4: Candidates consent to nomination

Form 5: Ballot paper for constituency member elections

   Directions as to printing the ballot paper

Form 6: Ballot paper for London members elections

   Directions as to printing the ballot paper

Form 7: Ballot paper for mayoral elections

   Directions as to printing the ballot paper

Form 8: Corresponding number list L1

Form 9: Corresponding number list L2

F127 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

[F128 Form 11: postal voting statement (ordinary elections or constituency member or mayoral by-election)]

[F129 Form 11A: Postal voting statement: for use at a combined election where issue and receipt of postal ballot papers are taken together]

[F129 Form 11B: Postal voting statement: for use at a combined election where issue and receipt of postal ballot papers are not taken together]

Form 12: Official poll card

Form 13: Official postal poll card

Form 14: Official proxy poll card

Form 15: Official proxy postal poll card

Form 16: Notices for the guidance of voters at by –elections and Ordinary elections

Form 17: Notices for guidance of voters at Authority elections combined with another election

Form 18: Certificate of employment

Form 19: Declaration to be made by the companion of a voter with disabilities

[F130 Form 19A: Declaration to be made by the companion of a voter with disabilities: combined election]

Form 20: Election agent's declaration as to election expenses (list candidates)

Form 21: List candidate's declaration as to election expenses

Textual Amendments

F126 Words in Sch. 10 rule 2 inserted (with application in accordance with rule 1(3) of the amending S.I.) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 10(2)

F127 Words in Sch. 10 omitted (with application in accordance with rule 1(3) of the amending S.I.) by virtue of The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 10(3)(a)

F128 Words in Sch. 10 substituted (with application in accordance with rule 1(3) of the amending S.I.) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 10(3)(b)

F129 Words in Sch. 10 inserted (with application in accordance with rule 1(3) of the amending S.I.) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 10(3)(c)

F130 Words in Sch. 10 inserted (with application in accordance with rule 1(3) of the amending S.I.) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 10(3)(d)

F131 Form 1

Textual Amendments

F131 Sch. 10 Form 1 substituted (1.3.2012) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2012 (S.I. 2012/198), rules 1(1), 7(a), Sch. 1

F132 Form 2

Textual Amendments

F132 Sch. 10 Form 2 substituted (1.3.2012) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2012 (S.I. 2012/198), rules 1(1), 7(b), Sch. 2

F133 Form 3

Textual Amendments

F133 Sch. 10 Form 3 substituted (1.3.2012) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2012 (S.I. 2012/198), rules 1(1), 7(c), Sch. 3

F134 F135 F136 Form 4

Textual Amendments

F134 Sch. 10 Form 4: in the paragraph beginning “I declare that on the day…”, words “European Union” substituted for "European Community" (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 7(7)(a)

F135 Sch. 10 Form 4: in the paragraph beginning “I declare to the best of my knowledge”, words “a decision made under section 78A of the Local Government Act 2000, or an order made under section 34(4) of the Localism Act 2011,” substituted for “or any decision made under section 79 the Local Government Act 2000,” (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 7(7)(b)

F136 Sch. 10 Form 4: on the back of the form, words “, 78A of the Local Government Act 2000 and 34 of the Localism Act 2011” substituted for “and section 79 of the Local Government Act 2000” (8.2.2016) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 7(7)(c)

F137 Form 5 – Ballot paper for constituency member elections
	CMER rule 17

Textual Amendments

F137 Sch. 10 Form 5 substituted (with application in accordance with rule 1(3) of the amending S.I.) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 10(4)(a), Sch. Pt. 1

F138 Form 6 – Ballot paper for London members elections
	LMER rule 18

Textual Amendments

F138 Sch. 10 Form 6 substituted (with application in accordance with rule 1(3) of the amending S.I.) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 10(4)(b), Sch. Pt. 1

F139 Form 7 – Ballot paper for mayoral elections
	MER rule 17

Textual Amendments

F139 Sch. 10 Form 7 substituted (with application in accordance with rule 1(3) of the amending S.I.) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 10(4)(c), Sch. Pt. 1

F140 ...

Textual Amendments

F140 Sch. 10 Form 10 omitted (with application in accordance with rule 1(3) of the amending S.I.) by virtue of The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 10(5)

Form 11 – form of postal voting statement: ordinary elections or F141 constituency member or mayoral by-election
	CMER rule 23, LMER 24, MER 23

Textual Amendments

F141 Sch. 10 Form 11 substituted (with application in accordance with rule 1(3) of the amending S.I.) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 10(6), Sch. Pt. 2

F142 Form 11A – form of postal voting statement: combined elections where issue and receipt of postal ballot papers are taken together
	CMER rule 23, LMER 24, MER 23

Textual Amendments

F142 Sch. 10 Form 11A inserted (with application in accordance with rule 1(3) of the amending S.I.) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 10(7)(a), Sch. Pt. 2

F143 Form 11B – form of postal voting statement: combined elections where issue and receipt of postal ballot papers are not taken together
	CMER rule 23, LMER 24, MER 23

Textual Amendments

F143 Sch. 10 Form 11B inserted (with application in accordance with rule 1(3) of the amending S.I.) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 10(7)(b), Sch. Pt. 2

F144 Form 12 – Official poll card
	CMER rule 26, LMER rule 27, MER rule 26

Textual Amendments

F144 Sch. 10 Form 12 substituted (with application in accordance with rule 1(3) of the amending S.I.) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 10(4)(d), Sch. Pt. 1

Front of card

Back of card

F145 Form 13 – Official postal poll card
	CMER rule 26, LMER rule 27, MER rule 26

Textual Amendments

F145 Sch. 10 Form 13 substituted (with application in accordance with rule 1(3) of the amending S.I.) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 10(4)(e), Sch. Pt. 1

Front of card

Back of card

F146 Form 14 – Official proxy poll card
	CMER rule 26, LMER rule 27, MER rule 26

Textual Amendments

F146 Sch. 10 Form 14 substituted (with application in accordance with rule 1(3) of the amending S.I.) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 10(4)(f), Sch. Pt. 1

Front of card

Back of card

F147 Form 15 – Official proxy postal poll card
	CMER rule 26, LMER rule 27, MER rule 26

Textual Amendments

F147 Sch. 10 Form 15 substituted (with application in accordance with rule 1(3) of the amending S.I.) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 10(4)(g), Sch. Pt. 1

Front of card

Back of card

Form 16 – Notices for guidance of voters at ordinary day elections (or filling of a vacancy in an Assembly constituency or filling of a vacancy in the office of Mayor)
	CMER rule 29, LMER rule 30, MER rule 29

F148 Notice A – Notice for guidance of voters for display inside and outside polling stations

Textual Amendments

F148 Sch. 10 Form 16 Notice A substituted (with application in accordance with rule 1(3) of the amending S.I.) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 10(8)(a), Sch. Pt. 3

F149 Notice AA – Notice for guidance of voters for display inside polling stations and inside polling booths

Textual Amendments

F149 Sch. 10 Form 16 Notice AA inserted (with application in accordance with rule 1(3) of the amending S.I.) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 10(8)(b), Sch. Pt. 3

F150 Notice B – Notice for guidance of voters for display inside polling stations

Textual Amendments

F150 Sch. 10 Form 16 Notice B omitted (with application in accordance with rule 1(3) of the amending S.I.) by virtue of The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 10(8)(c)

Notice C – Notice for guidance of voters for display inside polling stations

F151 Notice D1– Notice for guidance of voters for display inside polling booths

Textual Amendments

F151 Sch. 10 Form 16 Notice D1 omitted (with application in accordance with rule 1(3) of the amending S.I.) by virtue of The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 10(8)(d)

F152 Notice D2– Notice for guidance of voters for display inside polling stations

Textual Amendments

F152 Sch. 10 Form 16 Notice D2 omitted (with application in accordance with rule 1(3) of the amending S.I.) by virtue of The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 10(8)(e)

Form 17 – Notices for guidance of voters at GLA election combined with another election or referendum
	CMER rule 29, LMER rule 30, MER rule 29

Notice A1 – Notice for guidance of voters for display inside and outside polling stationsF153

Textual Amendments

F153 Sch. 10 Form 17 Notice A1 substituted (with application in accordance with rule 1(3) of the amending S.I.) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 10(9)(a), Sch. Pt. 3

Notice AA1 – Notice for guidance of voters for display inside polling stations and inside polling boothsF154

Textual Amendments

F154 Sch. 10 Form 17 Notice AA1 inserted (with application in accordance with rule 1(3) of the amending S.I.) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 10(9)(b), Sch. Pt. 3

Notice C1 – Notice for guidance of voters for display inside polling stationsF155

Textual Amendments

F155 Sch. 10 Form 17 Notice C1 omitted (with application in accordance with rule 1(3) of the amending S.I.) by virtue of The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 10(9)(c)

Notice D3– Notice for guidance of voters for display inside polling boothsF156

Textual Amendments

F156 Sch. 10 Form 17 Notice D3 omitted (with application in accordance with rule 1(3) of the amending S.I.) by virtue of The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 10(9)(d)

Form 18 – Certificate of EmploymentF157
	CMER rule 33(4), LMER rule 34(4), MER rule 33(4)

Textual Amendments

F157 Sch. 10 Form 18 substituted (with application in accordance with rule 1(3) of the amending S.I.) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 10(4)(h), Sch. Pt. 1

Form 19 – Declaration to be made by the companion of a voter with disabilitiesF158
	CMER rule 40, LMER rule 41, MER rule 40

Textual Amendments

F158 Sch. 10 Form 19 substituted (with application in accordance with rule 1(3) of the amending S.I.) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 10(10), Sch. Pt. 4

Form 19A – Declaration to be made by the companion of a voter with disabilities: combined electionF159
	CMER rule 40, LMER rule 41, MER rule 40

Textual Amendments

F159 Sch. 10 Form 19A inserted (with application in accordance with rule 1(3) of the amending S.I.) by The Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2016 (S.I. 2016/24), rules 1(2), 10(11), Sch. Pt. 4

Explanatory Note

(This note is not part of the Order)

The Greater London Authority Act 1999 (“the 1999 Act”) provides for there to be a Greater London Authority, comprising the Mayor of London and the London Assembly. The latter consists of 25 members of whom 14 are “constituency members” and 11 are “London members”.

Provision is made in section 4 of, and Schedule 2 to the 1999 Act, concerning the type of electoral system to be used at elections for the return of the Mayor, and of constituency and London members of the Assembly (“Authority elections”).

These rules make provision for the conduct of those Authority elections and reflect changes made to the rules for the conduct of Parliamentary elections, by the Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c. 22). These rules revoke and replace the Greater London Authority Elections (No. 2) Rules 2000 (S.I. 2000/427) and the Greater London Authority Elections (Amendment) Rules 2004 (S.I. 2004/227).

The rules set out in Schedules 1 to 3 apply to Authority elections (whether held to fill a vacancy in accordance with section 10 or 16 of the 1999 Act, or at an ordinary election) that are not combined with any other type of election or referendum. The rules in Schedules 1 to 3 apply subject to the modifications set out in Schedule 4 if an electronic counting system is not used at those elections.

The rules set out in Schedules 5 to 7 apply to Authority elections (whether held to fill a vacancy in accordance with section 10 or 16 of the 1999 Act or at an ordinary election) that are not combined with any other type of election or referendum. The rules in Schedules 5 to 7 apply subject to the modifications set out in Schedule 8 if an electronic counting system is not used at those elections.

Schedule 9 contains provisions governing the contents of notices for the guidance of voters to be used at Authority elections.

Schedule 10 contains the forms that, in accordance with the rules in Schedules 1 to 9, are to be used at Authority elections.