United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
- Boundary Delimitation
- Direct Democracy
- Electoral Management
- Electoral Systems
- Legislative Framework
- Media and Elections
- Parties and Candidates
- Vote Counting
- Voter Education
- Voting Operations
- Voter Registration
Boundary Delimitation
BD01 Are constituencies delimited for election purposes?
a. Yes
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, Ch.41, Section 3.
Last updated: Fri, 05 Jul 2002 10:59:38 GMT
BD02 The authority responsible for final approval of the constituency boundaries is:
b. The Boundaries Commission
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, Ch.41, Section 3.
Last updated: Fri, 05 Jul 2002 11:00:13 GMT
BD03 On what criteria are the boundaries drawn?
a. "Equality" of population
b. Respecting natural barriers
f. Communities of interest/cultural concerns
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 15:11:48 GMT
BD04 If population is a criterion, which population figure is used?
c. Number of registered voters
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 15:12:42 GMT
BD05 The body responsible for drawing the boundaries is:
a. Legislature (specify chamber)
Comments: a) House of Commons
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 15:13:42 GMT
BD06 What statistical or other reasons trigger the redrawing of electoral constituency boundaries?
k. Boundaries redrawn every____period of years
Comments: k) 8-12 years
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 15:14:26 GMT
Direct Democracy
DD01 Please provide information about the person completing the questionnaire.
a. Name and Title: Douglas Stewart
b. Job Title: Corporate Programmes Manager
c. Organisation: The Electoral Commission (UK)
d. Contact Address. Trevelyan House, Great Peter Street, London, SW1P 2HW, UK
e. Telephone: 02072710500
g. Email: dstewart@electoralcommission.org.uk
Last updated: 2005-04-18 12:28:08 UTC
DD02 Which forms of direct democracy, if any, are currently possible at the national level?
Please check the glossary for the definition of the following terms:
b. Optional referendum
Comments: Parliament can call for a UK wide, national referendum or English Regional referendums to be held under a generic piece of legislation called the Political Parties Elections and Referendums Act 2000. It is generic legislation for all UK, national and regional referendums. Further subsequent legislation is required before a referendum can actually be held.
Source: Political Parties Elections and Referendums Act 2000, Section 101.
Last updated: 2005-04-18 13:19:17 UTC
DD03 What is the legal basis for mandatory referendums at the national level?
e. Not applicable
Source: Political Parties elections and referendums Act 2000, Part VII. The Conduct Regulations.
Last updated: 2005-06-13 11:11:59 UTC
DD04 What is the legal basis for optional referendums at the national level?
b. Specific laws/legislation
c. Regulations
Source: Political Parties elections and referendums Act 2000, Part VII. The Conduct Regulations.
Last updated: 2005-04-18 13:20:33 UTC
DD05 What is the legal basis for citizens' initiatives at the national level?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-04-18 13:21:16 UTC
DD06 What is the legal basis for agenda initiatives at the national level?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-04-18 13:21:30 UTC
DD07 What is the legal basis for recalls at the national level?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-04-18 13:21:46 UTC
DD08 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for mandatory referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-04-18 13:22:42 UTC
DD09 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for optional referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
b. Specific laws/legislation
c. Regulations
Source: Political Parties elections and referendums Act 2000, Part VII. The Conduct Regulations.
Last updated: 2005-04-18 13:23:28 UTC
DD10 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for citizens' initiatives at the national level?
Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-04-18 13:23:46 UTC
DD108 Which organisation(s), if any, is responsible for running non-partisan information or voter education campaigns to inform voters about the issue being addressed in a recall?
g. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-04-18 14:09:21 UTC
DD109 What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for a referendum?
a. Information booklets
b. Leaflets and pamphlets
c. Radio broadcasts
d. TV broadcasts
e. Press advertisements
Source: Douglas Stewart, Head of Corporate Programmes, The Electoral Commission.
Last updated: 2005-04-18 14:09:51 UTC
DD11 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for agenda initiatives at the national level?
Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-04-18 13:24:02 UTC
DD112 Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in a referendum?
a. Compulsory registration of campaigners and campaign groups
b. Expenditure limits
c. Contribution limits
d. Restrictions on the sources of contributions
e. Disclosure requirements
Source: Political Parties Elections an referendums Act 2000.
Last updated: 2005-04-19 09:13:19 UTC
DD115 What is the period during which these controls apply for a referendum?
a. Fixed time period (specify)
Comments: a. referendum period as defined in the legislation.
Source: The Political Parties Elections and Referendums Act 2000.
Last updated: 2005-04-19 09:14:49 UTC
DD118 Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for a referendum? Specify in the “Comments” section below.
a. Single designated campaign organisation for each side
Source: The Political Parties Elections and Referendums Act 2000.
Last updated: 2005-04-19 09:16:05 UTC
DD12 What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for recalls at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-04-18 13:24:35 UTC
DD121 Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for a referendum?
Specify in the “Comments” section below.
a. Financial grant
b. Free media access
d. Free mailshot
e. Other (specify)
Comments: a. £600K. b. Free air time for broadcasts. d. Free mail delivery to each household/elector in referendum area. e. Free use of public rooms to hold campaign meetings.
Source: The Political Parties Elections and Referendums Act 2000.
Last updated: 2005-04-19 09:18:42 UTC
DD124 If free media access is provided, what are the criteria for allocating broadcast time / printing space?
a. Frequency, length and costs of air time fall to broadcasters, costs of free mail delivery fall to Universal Postal Provider (Royal Mail). Costs of production fall to designated organisations.
Source: The Political Parties Elections and Referendums Act 2000.
Last updated: 2005-04-19 09:19:42 UTC
DD126 What restrictions or controls, if any, are there on media coverage of the campaign and/or issue during the relevant period?
a. The normal restrictions apply to broadcasting balance as at an election.
Source: Douglas Stewart, Head of Corporate Programmes, The Electoral Commission.
Last updated: 2005-04-19 09:22:47 UTC
DD13 When were direct democracy mechanisms first introduced into the legal framework at the national level?
Date (yyyy)
b. Optional referendum 2000
Source: Political Parties Elections and Referendums Act 2000.
Last updated: 2005-04-18 13:25:37 UTC
DD14 When was an administrative framework for direct democracy mechanisms first introduced at the national level? Date (yyyy)
b. Optional referendum 2000
Source: Political Parties Elections and Referendums Act 2000.
Last updated: 2005-04-18 13:26:17 UTC
DD15 Who is responsible for managing the administration of direct democracy mechanisms at the national level?
a. Government (specify department)
b. Independent electoral commission
Comments: a. Department of Constitutional Affairs (produce legislation) Department of Constitutional Affairs responsible for drafting the legislation, local government staff are responsible for physically administering vote, while the independent Electoral Commission provides has a number of other statutory roles surrounding the referendum, including being consulted on the legislation, paying the local authority staff and providing training and guidance to the local authority staff.
Source: Douglas Stewart, Corporate Programmes manager, The Electoral Commission.
Last updated: 2005-04-18 13:28:20 UTC
DD16 Does this agency/department also manage the administration of national elections?
b. No
Comments: Mixed responsibilities as above. However, structure maintains integrity and independence of local authority staff physically running the poll. It also ensures the political impartiality of central govt officials. The Electoral Commission has statutory and advisory roles throughout all processes.
Source: Douglas Stewart, Corporate Programmes manager, The Electoral Commission.
Last updated: 2005-04-18 13:30:15 UTC
DD17 Are mandatory referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2005-04-18 13:31:21 UTC
DD18 Are optional referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
b. Yes, in some regions/states/provinces
Comments: It is possible to hold a referendums under the political partied elections and referendums act in the 9 English regions.
Source: Political Parties Elections and Referendums Act 2000.
Last updated: 2005-04-18 13:32:18 UTC
DD19 Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2005-04-18 13:32:40 UTC
DD20 Are agenda initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2005-04-18 13:32:57 UTC
DD21 Are recalls currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2005-04-18 13:33:12 UTC
DD22 Are mandatory referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2005-04-18 13:34:12 UTC
DD23 Are optional referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
a. Yes, in all municipalities/districts/communes
Source: Local Government Act 2000. Part II & Local Authorities (Conduct of Referendums) (England) Regulations 2001.
Last updated: 2005-04-18 13:35:13 UTC
DD24 Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
a. Yes, in all municipalities/districts/communes
Source: Local Government Act 2000. Part II & Local Authorities (Conduct of Referendums) (England) Regulations 2001.
Last updated: 2005-04-18 13:35:32 UTC
DD25 Are agenda initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2005-04-18 13:35:58 UTC
DD26 Are recalls currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
c. No
Last updated: 2005-04-18 13:36:14 UTC
DD27 What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are mandatory at the national level?
k. None
Source: Douglas Stewart, Head of Corporate Programmes, The Electoral Commission.
Last updated: 2005-04-18 13:37:07 UTC
DD29 Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of referendums at the national level?
k. None
Comments: An Act of Parliament could bring forward a referendum on any issue at national level.
Source: Douglas Stewart, Head of Corporate Programmes, The Electoral Commission.
Last updated: 2005-04-18 13:38:49 UTC
DD31 Who can initiate a referendum at the national level?
d. Legislative majority
Source: Douglas Stewart, Head of Corporate Programmes, The Electoral Commission & The Political Parties Elections and Referendums Act 2000.
Last updated: 2005-04-18 13:41:15 UTC
DD32 Who is responsible for drafting the mandatory referendum question?
g. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-04-18 13:46:27 UTC
DD33 Who is responsible for drafting the optional referendum question?
a. Government (specify department)
Comments: The Electoral Commission is required to comment on the intelligibility of the referendum and publish a report with its views.
Source: The Political Parties Elections and Referendums Act 2000.
Last updated: 2005-04-18 13:46:54 UTC
DD34 Which of the following, if any, are required to be included in the mandatory referendum question?
f. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-04-18 13:50:21 UTC
DD36 Which institution(s) decides on the final form of the ballot text for mandatory referendums?
f. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-04-18 13:53:25 UTC
DD38 What, if any, are the quorum requirements for a mandatory referendum to be valid? Please specify numbers/percentages.
d. Not applicable (X)
Last updated: 2005-04-18 13:54:50 UTC
DD39 What, if any, are the quorum requirements for a optional referendum to be valid? Please specify numbers/percentages.
c. No quorom required (X)
Comments: No quorum is currently required under the legislation, but it would be possible to one if the Government decided.
Source: Douglas Stewart, Head of Corporate Programmes, The Electoral Commission.
Last updated: 2005-04-18 13:55:45 UTC
DD40 What are the requirements for mandatory referendums to pass?
e. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-04-18 13:57:28 UTC
DD41 What are the requirements for optional referendums to pass?
d. Other (specify below)
Comments: A simple majority is sufficient to pass the referendum. However, it should be noted that all referendums in the UK to date have been advisory. Consequently, the results have not been technically binding. Also, it is possible that a threshold clause may be included in the legislation, although this is rare and has only happened in Scotland in 1975 where 40% of the electorate had to vote in favour of an outcome.
Source: Douglas Stewart, Head of Corporate Programmes, The Electoral Commission.
Last updated: 2005-04-19 10:07:03 UTC
DD43 When is the outcome of a mandatory referendum binding?
d. Not applicable
Last updated: 2005-04-18 13:59:11 UTC
DD44 When is the outcome of an optional referendum binding?
b. Under certain circumstances (specify below)
Comments: When specified in the legislation This has never happened to date, the referendums to date in the UK, even prior to the Political Parties Elections and Referendums Act were all advisory.
Source: Douglas Stewart, Head of Corporate Programmes, The Electoral Commission.
Last updated: 2005-04-18 14:00:13 UTC
DD72 How many verified signatures are required to start the formal decision-making stage for an abrogative referendum (optional)?
Indicate figures in the appropriate boxes. If more than one answer exists for any individual box, explain in the comment section.
e. Not applicable (X)
Comments: There is no facility to initiate a referendum through the collection of signatures at a national level. All UK, national and English regional referendums must be initiated by an act of Parliament.
Last updated: 2005-04-19 10:08:55 UTC
Electoral Management
EM01 Please provide the following contact information for the national electoral management body:
a. Name of Institution Electoral Commission
b. Full Address 30 GT Peter St, London, SW1P 2HW
c. Telephone 0044 207 271 0500
e. Email electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
f. Website Address electoralcommission.org.uk
g. Name and Title of Chairperson/President Chairperson: Mr. Sam Younger
i. Official language of the electoral law governing national elections English
Comments: UK Electoral Commission has the key role in electoral law and process, but does not itself manage elections (except referenda). Elections are managed by independent local Returning Officers (district electoral officers).
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 15:04:19 GMT
EM02 Does this national electoral body have the responsibility for elections at:
d. Other kinds of elections (church, union, etc.) Please specify.
Comments: d) No operational responsibility other than for referenda.
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 15:05:26 GMT
EM03 The national electoral management body reports to:
c. The legislature
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 15:05:54 GMT
EM04 The budget of the national electoral management body is determined by:
c. The legislature
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 15:06:39 GMT
EM05 The expenditures of the national electoral management body are controlled by:
c. The legislature
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 15:07:14 GMT
EM06 The term of the members of the national electoral management body is:
b. For a term of _________ years
Comments: b) For a specified period not exceeding 10 years as determined by parliament.
Source: Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, Ch.41, Section 3.
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 15:08:09 GMT
EM07 The national electoral management body chairperson, or equivalent, is chosen in the following way:
b. Legislative appointment
Source: Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, Ch.41, Section 3.
Last updated: Tue, 21 May 2002 14:16:40 GMT
EM08 According to official sources, what was the estimated overall cost (in US dollars if available) of the most recent national elections?
a. estimated total: 73405000
Comments: 73 405 000 USD 50 million British pounds.Amount from 1997 elections.
Source: Mr. Sam Younger
Last updated: 2008-01-21 14:07:36 UTC
EM09 What was the total number of registered voters or, where there was no voter roll, the estimated number of eligible voters?
a. Total number: 44403238
Comments: 2001 General Election
Source: Mr. Sam Younger
Last updated: 2008-01-21 14:07:36 UTC
EM10 What was the spending (in USD) per registered voter (NOT actual voters) or, where there was no voter roll, the estimated number of eligible voters at the last general elections?
a. USD/registered voter 1.8
b. Exchange rate used 1.46 (exchange rate from 09/2001)
Comments: £1.2 - USD 1.8 (estimated) Based on government estimate of £52.6m for 2001 General Election
Source: Mr. Sam Younger
Last updated: Wed, 08 May 2002 11:16:00 GMT
Electoral Systems
ES01 How is the Head of State selected?
g. Inherited monarchy
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Fri, 05 Jul 2002 10:50:17 GMT
ES02 How is the Head of Government selected?
d. Leader of the party which forms the government becomes Head of Government
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Fri, 05 Jul 2002 10:50:47 GMT
ES03 Does the country have a president?
b. No
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Fri, 05 Jul 2002 10:51:22 GMT
ES04 The national legislature consists of (one/two chambers):
b. Two chambers
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Fri, 05 Jul 2002 11:11:11 GMT
ES05 What is the electoral system for Chamber 1 of the national legislature?
a. Plurality (FPTP)
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Fri, 05 Jul 2002 10:54:23 GMT
ES06 What is the electoral system for Chamber 2 of the national legislature?
j. By appointment
l. Other
Comments: j. Hereditaries do not owe their position to appointment.
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 14:23:58 GMT
ES07 If List PR is used, is a highest average formula used?
h. Not applicable
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 14:25:15 GMT
ES08 What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 1?
b. Specially delimited constituencies
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Fri, 05 Jul 2002 10:55:31 GMT
ES09 What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 2?
d. Not applicable
Source: http://www.parliament.uk/parliament/guide/lords.htm
Last updated: Tue, 21 May 2002 13:48:21 GMT
ES10 Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 1 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
b. No
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 14:29:22 GMT
ES11 If special constituencies or seats are reserved in Chamber 1, specify which interest groups, and the proportion of total seats reserved for:
e. Not applicable Na
Comments: Special constituencies or seats are not reserved in the House of Commons.
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 14:30:50 GMT
ES12 Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 2 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
a. Yes
Comments: a. Places are reserved for 26 Bishops of the Church of England, 28 law lords and 92 hereditary peers elected by their fellows.
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 14:31:46 GMT
ES13 If special constituencies or seats are reserved in Chamber 2, specify which interest groups, and the proportion of total seats reserved:
c. Religious groups - proportion of total seats (%) 4
d. Other - proportion of total seats (%) 17
Comments: Hereditary peers: 13%, Law lords 4% Heredities. Places are reserved for Bishops of the Church of England, law lords and hereditary peers. Though most of the latter, no longer have voting rights.
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 14:32:55 GMT
ES14 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 1?
a. No minimum
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Fri, 05 Jul 2002 10:56:23 GMT
ES15 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 2?
c. Not applicable
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 14:34:09 GMT
ES16 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 1?
a. No minimum
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 14:34:44 GMT
ES17 What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 2?
c. Not applicable
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 14:35:18 GMT
ES18 Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 1, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
b. Elections can be called at any time (specify by whom)
Comments: b) By the monarch on the advice of the Prime Minister.
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Fri, 05 Jul 2002 10:57:05 GMT
ES19 Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 2, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
e. Not applicable
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 14:42:52 GMT
ES20 Regarding Chamber 1 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
a. Voting takes place on one day
Comments: Voting traditionally takes place on a Thursday, but this is not regulated by law.
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 14:52:52 GMT
Legislative Framework
LF01 What is the status of the electoral law governing national elections?
b. Separate legislation
d. Regulations or administrative rules
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 14:54:15 GMT
LF02 What is the date of the latest version of the national electoral law (including latest amendments)?
a. January 2000 or later
Comments: a) Partially updated in 2000.
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 14:54:45 GMT
LF03 The national electoral law covers:
a. National elections
b. Regional elections
c. Local elections
d. Referendums
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 14:55:20 GMT
LF04 Is voting on the national level voluntary or compulsory?
a. Voting is voluntary
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Fri, 05 Jul 2002 10:58:02 GMT
LF05 Are there provisions in the law which permit or require regional and/ or local election (s) to be held on the same day as national elections?
b. National elections are held on the same day as regional and local elections
Comments: There are provisions in the law which permit (but do not require) regional and/or local elections to be held on the same day as national elections.
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 14:56:19 GMT
LF06 Are there provisions in the law which permit or require presidential election (s) to be held on the same day as national legislative elections?
c. Not applicable
Comments: Presidential elections are not held.
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 14:59:01 GMT
LF07 What are the agency(ies) responsible for first level of formal electoral disputes?
a. Judiciary
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 14:57:28 GMT
LF08 If the agency(ies) which settles formal disputes is/are specially appointed/elected; by whom?
h. Not applicable
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 14:58:04 GMT
LF09 Who has the right to submit cases to the person or agency(ies)which settles formal disputes?
a. Candidates
b. Parties
c. Voters
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 15:00:08 GMT
LF10 What body(ies) is the final appellate authority for formal electoral disputes?
e. Special Electoral Tribunal
Comments: e) Special court that may be appellable to the Lords. Possible application of European law.
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 15:01:10 GMT
LF11 Which body(ies) proposes electoral reforms?
a. Election Management Body
b. Legislative Committee
c. Government
d. Specially Appointed Committee
Comments: The Government department is responsible for the legislation. The new Electoral Commission is expected to propose changes to electoral law.
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 15:03:09 GMT
Media and Elections
ME01 Please provide information about the person completing the questionnaire.
a. Name and Title: Andrew Fraser
b. Job Title: Project Manager - International Policy & Strategy
c. Organisation: The Electoral Commission
d. Contact Address: Trevelyan House , Great Peter Street, London SW1P 2HW
e. Telephone: 020 7271 0721
f. Facsimile: 020 7271 0528
Last updated: 2006-12-08 13:12:19 UTC
ME11 What laws, if any, guarantee freedom of access to public information for representatives of the media?
Last updated: 2006-12-08 13:12:19 UTC
ME13 What are the laws, if any, which govern the operations of the public broadcaster?
Specify the date of the latest version (including latest amendments)
Last updated: 2006-12-08 13:12:19 UTC
ME18 What are the laws, if any, that provide for the safeguards for editorial autonomy in relation to the public broadcaster(s)?
Last updated: 2006-12-08 13:12:19 UTC
ME19 What are the laws, if any, which govern the granting of broadcasting licenses/frequencies to private broadcasters?
Last updated: 2006-12-08 13:12:19 UTC
ME22 What are the legal conditions, if any, under which the activities of a media outlet may be suspended?
Last updated: 2006-12-08 13:12:19 UTC
ME37 What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to political parties?
e. As agreed by special committee
Comments: A group called the Broadcaster’s Liaison Group is responsible for allocating the number of party political broadcasts. It is made up of the television broadcasters and does include discussions with the political parties. There is no free printed advertisement space to political parties but the postage is paid for each candidate to send out a mail-shot in the constituency they are standing in. The candidates, however, must pay for the cost of the printing of the mail-shot.
Source: Andrew Fraser, Project Manager - International Policy & Strategy, The Electoral Commission, UK
Last updated: 2006-12-08 13:16:08 UTC
ME38 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a political party is permitted to spend on paid advertising during a campaign period?
b. The law does not specify any limits on paid advertising X
Comments: Political parties are prohibited from buying advertising in the broadcast media – however there is no maximum that they can spend on other forms of advertising (as long as it is below their overall expenditure limit)
Source: Andrew Fraser, Project Manager - International Policy & Strategy, The Electoral Commission, UK
Last updated: 2006-12-08 13:15:22 UTC
ME55 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a presidential candidate is permitted to spend on paid advertising?
Last updated: 2006-12-08 13:12:19 UTC
ME56 What are the laws, if any, which govern the disclosure of campaign advertising expenditures by political parties and candidates?
Last updated: 2006-12-08 13:12:19 UTC
ME57 What, if any, is the maximum amount that a media outlet can charge parties/candidates for advertising during the campaign?
Last updated: 2006-12-08 13:12:19 UTC
ME58 How does this maximum amount (identified in question C.15.1) affect the political participation of smaller or newly formed parties?
Last updated: 2006-12-08 13:12:19 UTC
ME59 Are televised debates between candidates or party representatives normally conducted?
c. No
Source: Andrew Fraser, Project Manager - International Policy & Strategy, The Electoral Commission, UK
Last updated: 2006-12-08 13:15:35 UTC
ME60 What legal requirements, if any, regulate the participation of candidates or party representatives in media debates?
Last updated: 2006-12-08 13:12:19 UTC
ME62 What is the blackout period, if any, during which results of pre-election opinion polls may not be released to the public?
g. Not applicable
Comments: Opinion polls may be published up to and including polling day, but exit polls can only be published after the close of poll.
Source: Andrew Fraser, Project Manager - International Policy & Strategy, The Electoral Commission, UK
Last updated: 2006-12-08 13:16:08 UTC
Parties and Candidates
PC01 What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 1)?
b. Deposit requirement (specify amount)
Comments: b) USD 730 for individual members. Political parties must register with the Electoral Commission if they wish their party name and emblem to appear on the ballot paper. Otherwise a candidate can be on the paper either as a "independent candidate" or with no description.
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 15:31:32 GMT
PC02 What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 2)?
g. Not applicable
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 15:32:20 GMT
PC03 What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
a. Age
b. Citizenship
Comments: a) 21 years old
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Fri, 05 Jul 2002 11:05:13 GMT
PC04 What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
k. Not applicable
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 15:33:55 GMT
PC05 What are the legal qualifications for becoming a candidate at presidential elections?
k. Not applicable
Comments: Presidential elections are not held.
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 15:35:04 GMT
PC06 What can disqualify a candidate at legislative elections?
a. Current criminal incarceration
e. Offences against electoral law
f. Holding of military office
g. Holding of government office
h. Bankruptcy or Insolvency
k. Mental health problems
n. Holding of other public offices (police etc.)
o. Other
Comments: k) Idiocy and lunacy n) Members of Chamber 2 o) As defined in House of Commons Disqualification Act 1975
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 15:37:53 GMT
PC07 What can disqualify a candidate at presidential elections?
o. Not applicable
Comments: Presidential elections are not held.
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 15:39:47 GMT
PC08 Can independent candidates compete in presidential or legislative elections?
c. In legislative elections (Chamber 1)
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 15:40:27 GMT
PC09 If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 1), what are the registration requirements?
a. Signature requirement (specify)
b. Deposit requirement (specify)
d. Other
Comments: a. sign nomination paper (supported by signatures of 10 electors) b. £ 500 (USD 730) d. must be Commonwealth or Irish citizen, aged 21 or over and not disqualified.
Source: Mr. Sam Younger
Last updated: Fri, 19 Oct 2001 10:24:48 GMT
PC10 If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 2), what are the registration requirements?
e. Not applicable
Source: Mr. Sam Younger
Last updated: Tue, 18 Sep 2001 08:35:52 GMT
PC11 If independent candidates can compete in presidential elections, what are the registration requirements?
e. Not Applicable
Source: Mr. Sam Younger
Last updated: Tue, 18 Sep 2001 08:36:34 GMT
PC12 Do political parties receive direct/indirect public funding?
b. Direct
c. Indirect
Comments: Public funding is provided; (a) to opposition parties to facilitate their parliamentary opposition functions (b) From July 1, 2002 parties in Parliament are entitled to £2m between them as "Policy Development Grant". Private funding is unlimited provided the donor is "permissible" under the law (foreign donors not allowed).
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, Ch.41, Section 12.
Last updated: Fri, 05 Jul 2002 11:06:18 GMT
PC13 If political parties receive direct/indirect public funding, when do they receive this?
c. As related to the election period and between elections
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 15:50:31 GMT
PC14 If political parties receive indirect public funding, identify the type of funding:
a. Free media access
d. Other
Comments: a) Party Political Broadcasts (PPBs), Party Election Broadcasts (PEBs). Free election broadcasts on public service TV and radio. d) Free post for election literature; free use of public facilities for meetings.
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 15:51:39 GMT
PC15 What is the basis of the public funding?
e. Other
Comments: e) (1) Money for opposition authorities based on status as official oppositions (largest party other than ruling party). (2) "Policy Development Grants": criteria not yet fixed.
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, Ch.41, Section 12.
Last updated: Fri, 05 Jul 2002 11:07:10 GMT
PC16 If political parties receive public funding, what is the specified purpose?
d. Other
Comments: (1) Funds for opposition are to support offices to enable effective opposition (2) "Policy Development Grants" designed to assist parties to develop policies for inclusion in their election manifestos.
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 15:58:11 GMT
PC17 Are political parties entitled to private funding?
a. Yes
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 15:58:45 GMT
PC18 If political parties are entitled to private funding, for what period?
c. As related to the election period and between elections
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 15:59:18 GMT
PC19 Which of the following party financing provisions are applicable?
a. Public disclosure of party contributions received
b. Public disclosure of party expenditure
c. Prohibition on party funding from foreign sources
e. Ceilings on party election expenses
h. Publication or public access to contribution and / or expenditure reports
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Fri, 05 Jul 2002 11:08:18 GMT
PC20 Which of the following candidate financing provisions are applicable?
a. Public disclosure of candidate contributions received
b. Public disclosure of candidate expenditure
c. Prohibition on candidate funding from foreign sources
e. Ceilings on candidate election expenses
h. Publication or public access to contribution and / or expenditure reports
Comments: Prohibition on candidate funding from foreign sources does not apply in Northern Ireland.
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 16:00:50 GMT
Vote Counting
VC01 What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
a. Single ballot (all registered parties listed)
d. Categorical (only one mark allowed)
g. Different ballots used in different constituencies
i. Party symbols in black and white
m. Organized alphabetically
o. Ballots signed or otherwise authenticated by polling station official
Comments: e. vote for individual not party m. by candidate name
Source: Mr. Sam Younger
Last updated: Tue, 18 Sep 2001 09:34:43 GMT
VC02 What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
s. Not applicable
Source: Mr. Sam Younger
Last updated: Tue, 18 Sep 2001 09:38:01 GMT
VC03 What are the characteristics of ballots used at presidential elections?
s. Not Applicable
Source: Mr. Sam Younger
Last updated: Tue, 18 Sep 2001 09:38:58 GMT
VC04 Following the close of the voting, where are the votes first sorted and counted?
c. At special counting centres
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 16:16:19 GMT
VC05 What procedures are used in the initial count?
a. Separate ballots for different elections
b. Preliminary count of all ballots in ballot box
c. Tally of voters who voted
d. Number of ballots in box reconciled against number of voters
e. Number of ballots reconciled against ballots initially received (minus spoilt and unused)
j. Sorted into piles according to individual party/candidate
l. Counted by hand
p. Copies of results of the count are publicly posted at the counting site immediately on the completion of the count
q. Copies of results are provided to observers
r. Observers and party agents are permitted to take their own copies of the results
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 16:27:03 GMT
VC06 Following the sorting and counting, to where are the results first transmitted for consolidation?
f. Other
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 16:27:59 GMT
VC07 At what levels are seats allocated?
e. Other
Comments: Individual constituency (659 across the UK)
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 16:29:43 GMT
VC08 How are the initial/preliminary polling results transmitted and communicated to the different levels?
a. Physically transported
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 16:30:18 GMT
VC09 If the polling results are physically transported, what is transported?
a. Ballots
b. Unused and spoiled ballots
c. Counterfoils of used ballots
d. Voter rolls
e. Tendered ballots
f. Certificate of result
g. Ballot boxes
Comments: Go to Clerk to the Crown in Chancery
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 16:31:01 GMT
VC10 If the polling results are physically transported, what security measures are used?
b. Tamper proof bags
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 16:31:39 GMT
VC11 Under what conditions are ballots recounted?
f. Other
Comments: At the discretion of the Regurning Officer (or Acting Returning Officer).
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 16:32:40 GMT
VC12 If automatically recounted, what is the trigger?
e. Not applicable
Comments: The ballots are not automatically recounted.
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 16:34:22 GMT
VC13 If ballots are recounted by request, who can make the request?
b. An individual candidate
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 16:34:58 GMT
VC14 If recounted, who conducts the recount?
f. Local Government agency (specify)
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 16:35:41 GMT
VC15 Are preliminary results announced?
b. No
Source: Mr. Sam Younger
Last updated: Tue, 18 Sep 2001 09:57:28 GMT
VC16 If preliminary results are announced, how long after the close of polls is this done?
d. Not applicable Na
Source: Mr. Sam Younger
Last updated: Mon, 13 May 2002 13:59:25 GMT
VC17 Is there a legal requirement for the declaration of the officially certified results?
a. Yes
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 16:36:31 GMT
VC18 How long after the close of polls is the certified results publicly announced? (if there is no legal requirement enter the average time)
a. hours:
Comments: a. 4hrs. The earliest announcement occurs within 45 minutes of close of poll. Latest overnight announcement takes place 7 hours after close of poll. Some counts (e.g. remote and rural constituencies where it takes a long time for boxes to be taken to the Court) begin the day after polling.
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 16:38:45 GMT
Voter Education
VE01 Who conducts voter education and information campaigns at the national elections (informing where, when and how to register and vote)?
a. National Electoral Management Body
d. National Government
f. Local Governments
Source: Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, Ch.41, Section 13.
Last updated: Tue, 21 May 2002 14:30:26 GMT
VE02 At the national level, how often are voter education programs conducted?
c. Other
Comments: c. Mainly before elections, but annually to encourage voter registration.
Source: Mr. Sam Younger
Last updated: Mon, 17 Sep 2001 13:36:48 GMT
VE03 Is there a national civic education campaign (rights and responsibilities of citizens)?
a. No
Source: Mr. Sam Younger
Last updated: Mon, 17 Sep 2001 13:37:29 GMT
VE04 What types of voter education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
b. Media advertisement
g. Internet
Source: Mr. Sam Younger
Last updated: Mon, 17 Sep 2001 13:38:11 GMT
VE05 What types of civic education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
i. Not applicable
Source: Mr. Sam Younger
Last updated: Mon, 17 Sep 2001 13:38:50 GMT
VE06 Special voter education programs were developed at the most recent national elections for:
h. Not applicable
Comments: There were no special voter education programs developed at the most recent elections.
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 15:26:27 GMT
Voting Operations
VO02 Is there a code of conduct for election officials?
b. No
Comments: There is guidance produced by Government Department and guidance issued by election officials' professional bodies. Electoral Commission will take on such guidance.
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 16:03:04 GMT
VO03 Where can electors vote?
a. At a specified polling station in the locality where they are registered at national elections
f. By mail
h. By proxy
i. By tendered ballot
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 16:04:30 GMT
VO04 Who can vote from outside the country?
c. Citizens outside the country (including those on vacation)
d. Members of the armed forces
e. Students
f. Diplomatic staff
Comments: e) Over 21 years old
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 16:06:10 GMT
VO05 If voting outside the country is permitted, at what places?
d. By proxy
e. By mail
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 16:06:47 GMT
VO06 Can people vote in advance of the designated national election day(s)?
b. Yes
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 16:07:31 GMT
VO07 If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), how may they do so?
b. By mail
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 16:08:04 GMT
VO08 If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), specify who:
a. Everyone
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 16:08:55 GMT
VO09 Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
b. No
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 16:09:43 GMT
VO10 Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
b. No Na
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 16:10:27 GMT
VO11 How do electors cast their votes?
a. By manually marking the ballot
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 16:11:07 GMT
VO12 How many staff are assigned to each polling station?
a. The smallest polling station: 2
Comments: No polling station has less than 2.
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 16:11:38 GMT
VO13 Approximately how many hours of training were provided to the presiding polling officer for the most recent national elections?
Comments: Variable - Local responsibility
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 16:12:27 GMT
VO14 Approximately how many hours of training were provided to the other polling officials for the most recent national elections?
Comments: Variable - Local responsibility
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 16:13:05 GMT
Voter Registration
VR01 What is the legal voting age in the national elections?
c. 18
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Fri, 05 Jul 2002 11:01:34 GMT
VR02 Beyond age, what other qualifications exist for registering to vote and voting in the national elections?
a. Citizenship
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Fri, 05 Jul 2002 11:02:10 GMT
VR03 What restrictions on registering to vote and voting exist in the country?
a. Criminal Incarceration
d. Mental disability
h. Other
Comments: h) Voting members of Chamber 2 (House of Lords) cannot vote in a General Election; and the monarch.
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 15:19:02 GMT
VR04 Which is the authority responsible for the registration of voters for national elections?
c. Local Government Authority
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 15:20:05 GMT
VR05 What is the registration method for national elections?
b. Voters register
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk, interview in Stockholm, June 2001.
Last updated: Tue, 21 May 2002 14:28:09 GMT
VR06 How frequently is the voters register updated?
a. Continuously
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 15:23:18 GMT
VR07 What methods are used to compile and update the voters register?
d. Registration by mail
e. Appearance by voter at registration office
f. Door-to-door registration campaign
Source: Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Last updated: Wed, 19 Jun 2002 15:23:58 GMT
May 20, 2008 07:19 AM
