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Boundary Delimitation
BD001
Delimitation of constituencies
Question: Are constituencies delimited for election purposes?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: The UK is currently divided into 650 parliamentary constituencies, each of which is represented by one MP in the House of Commons. There are currently 543 constituencies in England, 57 in Scotland, 32 in Wales and 18 in Northern Ireland.
The Parliamentary Constituencies Act 2020 amended the Parliamentary Constituencies Act 1986 and changed the number of seats from 600 to 650.
Source: Parliamentary Constituencies Act 1986, Schedule 2: Section 1, https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1986/56/schedule/2
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2020/25/data.pdf
Parliamentary Constituencies Act 2020, Section 5, https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2020/25/section/5/enacted
Verified: 2025/06/12
BD002
Question: The authority responsible for final approval of the constituency boundaries is:
Answer(s):
b . The Boundaries Commission
Comments: b) Boundary Commission for England
Boundary Commission for Scotland
Boundary Commission for Wales
Boundary Commission for Northern Ireland
Source: Arts. 10, 11 and 12, Parliamentary Voting System and Constituencies Act 2011;
Official Website of the Parliament: http://www.parliament.uk/about/how/elections-and-voting/constituencies/ (2012)
Verified: 2016/04/11
BD003
Criteria for drawing boundaries
Question: On what criteria are the boundaries drawn?
Answer(s):
a . "Equality" of population b . Respecting natural barriers d . Conformity with local jurisdiction boundaries e . Geographic size of district f . Communities of interest/cultural concerns g . Other
Comments: A Boundary Commission may take into account, if and to such extent as they think fit:
(a)special geographical considerations, including in particular the size, shape and accessibility of a constituency;
(b)local government boundaries which exist, or are prospective, on the review date;
(c)boundaries of existing constituencies;
(d)any local ties that would be broken by changes in constituencies;
(e)the inconveniences attendant on such changes.
Source: Parliamentary Constituencies Act 1986, Schedule 2: Section 5(1), https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1986/56/schedule/2#commentary-key-8a8f16ee5d11430ea3a1714ea00d466a
Verified: 2025/06/12
BD004
Question: If population is a criterion, which population figure is used?
Answer:
c . Number of registered voters
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law: "Parliamentary Voting System and Constituencies Act 2011", Schedule 2, Section 3, Art. 11
Verified: 2016/04/11
BD005
Body responsible for drawing boundaries
Question: The body responsible for drawing the boundaries is:
Answer(s):
a . Legislature (1st chamber) b . Legislature (2nd chamber) d . Boundary Commission
Comments: Recommendations and proposals are suggested by Boundary Commission reports, and are then submitted, by the Secretary of State, for approval by Parliament (i.e. the House of Commons and the House of Lords).
Source: Parliamentary Constituencies Act 1986 (c.56), Art. 3, 4, https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1986/56/contents
Verified: 2025/06/12
BD006
Question: What statistical or other reasons trigger the redrawing of electoral constituency boundaries?
Answer(s):
k . Boundaries redrawn every____period of years
Comments: k) every 5 years
Source: Parliamentary Constituencies Act 1986 (c.56), Art. 3 (2)
Verified: 2017/09/07
Electoral Systems
ES001
Head of State
Question: How is the Head of State selected?
Answer(s):
g . Inherited monarchy
Comments: The monarch of the United Kingdom acts as the Head of State. The U.K. has an uncodified constitution where fundamental rules take the form of customs, precedent, and a variety of statutes and legal instruments. As a constitutional monarch, His/Her Majesty does not 'rule' the country but fulfils important ceremonial and formal roles with respect to Government. They are also the Fount of Justice, Head of the Armed Forces and have important relationships with the established Churches of England and Scotland.
Source:
Verified: 2025/06/12
ES002
Head of Government
Question: How is the Head of Government selected?
Answer:
e . Appointed
Comments: After a general election, the appointment of a Prime Minister is the prerogative of the Sovereign. The Head of Government is the Prime Minister.
The leader of the party with an overall majority of seats in the House of Commons is usually appointed to the role of Prime Minister, but there could still be exceptional circumstances when the reigning monarch might need to exercise discretion. In appointing a Prime Minister, the Sovereign is guided by constitutional conventions. The main requirement is to find someone who can command the confidence of the House of Commons.
Although she is a constitutional monarch who remains politically neutral, The Queen retains the ability to give a regular audience to a Prime Minister during his or her term of office.
Source: Official Website of the UK Parliament: https://www.parliament.uk/about/mps-and-lords/principal/government-opposition/
Verified: 2025/06/12
ES003
President
Question: Does the country have a president?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Official Website of the UK Government: https://www.gov.uk/government/ministers/prime-minister
Verified: 2025/06/12
ES004
Number of Chambers
Question: The national legislature consists of (one/two chambers):
Answer:
b . Two chambers
Comments: The Parliament consists of the House of Lords and the House of Commons.
The Commons is publicly elected. The party with the largest number of members in the Commons forms the government.
The House of Lords is the second chamber of the UK Parliament. It is independent from, and complements the work of, the elected House of Commons. The Lords shares the task of making and shaping laws and checking and challenging the work of the government.
Source: Official Website of the UK Parliament: http://www.parliament.uk/about/how/role/system/ (2015)
Verified: 2025/06/12
ES005
Electoral System (Chamber 1)
Question: What is the electoral system for Chamber 1 of the national legislature?
Answer(s):
a . Plurality (FPTP)
Comments: The UK is divided into single-member constituencies.
Voters cast one vote for their preferred candidate.
The candidate with the most votes in each constituency wins the seat.
There is no requirement for a majority—just more votes than any other candidate.
Source: Official Website of the UK Parliament: https://www.parliament.uk/about/how/elections-and-voting/voting-systems/
Verified: 2025/06/12
ES006
Question: What is the electoral system for Chamber 2 of the national legislature?
Answer(s):
j . By appointment l . Other
Comments: j) Hereditary peers
Source: The House of Lords Act 1999
Verified: 2016/04/11
ES007
Question: If List PR is used, is a highest average formula used?
Answer:
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Official Website of the Parliament: http://www.parliament.uk/education/online-resources/parliament-explained/general-elections/ (2012)
Verified: 2016/04/11
ES008
Question: What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 1?
Answer(s):
b . Specially delimited constituencies
Comments: b) Parliamentary Constituencies
Source: http://www.parliament.uk/about/how/elections-and-voting/constituencies/
Verified: 2016/04/11
ES009
Question: What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 2?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments: Members of the House of Lords are appointed by the Queen on the advice of the Prime Minister. Some non-party-political members are recommended by an independent body, the House of Lords Appointments Commission.
Source: http://www.parliament.uk/business/lords/whos-in-the-house-of-lords/
Verified: 2016/04/11
ES010
Question: Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 1 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: http://www.parliament.uk/business/lords/whos-in-the-house-of-lords/
Verified: 2016/04/11
ES012
Question: Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 2 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: a) Seats are reserved for 26 Bishops of the Church of England and 92 hereditary peers elected by their fellows.
Source: The House of Lords Act 1999: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1999/34/contents (2012)
Verified: 2016/04/11
ES014
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 1?
Answer:
a . No minimum
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/04/11
ES015
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 2?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: The House of Lords Act 1999: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1999/34/contents (2012)
Verified: 2016/04/11
ES016
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 1?
Answer:
a . No minimum
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/04/11
ES017
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 2?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: The House of Lords Act 1999: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1999/34/contents (2012)
Verified: 2016/04/11
ES018
Question: Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 1, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
Answer(s):
a . At fixed intervals (specify length) b . Elections can be called at any time (specify by whom)
Comments: a) Every 5 years, on May
b) By the monarch on request of the Prime Minister
Source: Official Website of the Parliament: http://www.parliament.uk/education/online-resources/parliament-explained/general-elections/ (2012);
Verified: 2016/04/11
ES019
Question: Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 2, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: The House of Lords Act 1999: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1999/34/contents (2012)
Verified: 2016/04/11
ES020
Question: Regarding Chamber 1 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer:
a . Voting takes place on one day
Comments: Voting traditionally takes place on a Thursday, but this is not regulated by law.
Source: Official Website of the Parliament: http://www.parliament.uk/education/online-resources/parliament-explained/general-elections/ (2012)
Verified: 2016/04/11
ES021
Question: Regarding Chamber 2 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: The House of Lords Act 1999: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1999/34/contents (2012)
Verified: 2016/04/11
Legislative Framework
LF001
Status of Electoral Law
Question: What is the status of the electoral law governing national elections?
Answer(s):
b . Separate legislation d . Regulations or administrative rules
Comments: The electoral law governing national elections in the UK is governed by separate legislation, primarily the Elections Act 2022. This Act is not part of the UK Constitution (which is uncodified and made up of various sources), nor is it a decree or merely administrative regulation. The Elections Act 2022 is the primary legislation currently in force, with updates as of June 2025. It is a Public General Act passed by the UK Parliament, making it separate legislation.
The Electoral Commission issues guidance for Returning Officers, political parties, and candidates to ensure consistent application of the law. The Cabinet Office and other government departments provide administrative guidance, especially during pre-election periods, to ensure civil service neutrality.
Source: Parliamentary Voting System and Constituencies Act 2011: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2011/1/contents/enacted
Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2000/41/contents
Representation of the People Act 1983: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1983/2
Political Parties and Elections Act 2009: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2009/12
Electoral Administration Act 2006: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2006/22/contents
Verified: 2025/06/12
LF002
Question: What is the date of the latest version of the national electoral law (including latest amendments)?
Answer:
a . January 2000 or later
Comments:
Source: Parliamentary Voting System and Constituencies Act 2011
Verified: 2016/04/11
LF003
Electoral Law covers
Question: The national electoral law covers:
Answer(s):
a . National elections b . Regional elections c . Local elections d . Referendums
Comments: The UK’s electoral law is comprehensive, covering national, regional, and local elections, as well as referendums. It is implemented through a combination of primary legislation, secondary regulations, and administrative guidance.
1. National Elections:
UK Parliamentary General Elections (e.g., electing Members of Parliament to the House of Commons).
By-elections for vacant parliamentary seats.
2. Referendums:
National referendums (e.g., the 2016 EU Referendum).
Local referendums under specific legal frameworks.
3. Local Elections:
Elections for local councils, mayors, and local authorities in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland 1.
Includes elections for county councils, unitary authorities, metropolitan boroughs, and district councils.
4. Regional Elections:
Devolved legislatures: Scottish Parliament, Senedd Cymru (Welsh Parliament), and Northern Ireland Assembly.
Mayoral elections in combined authority areas (e.g., Greater Manchester, West Midlands).
Source: Parliamentary Voting System and Constituencies Act 2011: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2011/1/contents/enacted
Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2000/41/contents
Representation of the People Act 1983: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1983/2
Political Parties and Elections Act 2009: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2009/12
Electoral Administration Act 2006: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2006/22/contents
Verified: 2025/06/12
LF004
Compulsory/voluntary voting
Question: Is voting on the national level voluntary or compulsory?
Answer(s):
a . Voting is voluntary
Comments:
Source: Representation of the People Act 1983, Part 1, Article 1(1-2): https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1983/2
The Electoral Commission, "Which elections can you vote in?," https://www.electoralcommission.org.uk/i-am-a/voter/which-elections-can-i-vote
Verified: 2025/06/12
LF005
Question: 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?
Answer:
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: Representation of the People Act 1983
Verified: 2016/04/11
LF006
Question: Are there provisions in the law which permit or require presidential election (s) to be held on the same day as national legislative elections?
Answer(s):
c . Not applicable
Comments: Presidential elections are not held.
Source:
Verified: 2016/04/11
LF007
Electoral Disputes Agency(ies)
Question: What are the agency(ies) responsible for the first level of formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
a . Judiciary
Comments: Art 120:
1) No parliamentary election and no return to Parliament shall be questioned except by a
petition complaining of an undue election or undue return (“a parliamentary election
petition”) presented in accordance with this Part of this Act.
(2) A petition complaining of no return shall be deemed to be a parliamentary election
petition and the High Court—
(a) may make such order on the petition as they think expedient for compelling
a return to be made; or
(b) may allow the petition to be heard by an election court as provided with respect
to ordinary election petitions.
Source: Representation of the People Act 1983, Art. 120, 123: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1983/2
Verified: 2025/06/12
LF008
Question: If the agency(ies) which settles formal disputes is/are specially appointed/elected; by whom?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Representation of the People Act 1983, Art. 120
Verified: 2016/04/11
LF009
Question: Who has the right to submit cases to the person or agency(ies)which settles formal disputes?
Answer(s):
a . Candidates b . Parties c . Voters
Comments:
Source: Representation of the People Act 1983, Art. 121
Verified: 2016/04/11
LF010
Question: What body(ies) is the final appellate authority for formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
e . Special Electoral Tribunal
Comments:
Source: Representation of the People Act 1983, Art. 120, 123
Verified: 2016/04/11
LF011
Question: Which body(ies) proposes electoral reforms?
Answer(s):
a . Election Management Body b . Legislative Committee c . Government d . Specially Appointed Committee
Comments: The Government department is responsible for the legislation. The Electoral Commission proposes changes to electoral law.
Source: Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, Art. 9
Verified: 2016/04/11
Electoral Management
EM002
Responsibility of national EMB
Question: Does the national electoral body have the responsibility for elections at:
Answer(s):
a . National level b . Regional level c . Local level d . Other kinds of elections (church, union, etc.) Please specify.
Comments:
Source: Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, Art. 5: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2000/41/section/5
Verified: 2025/06/12
EM003
Question: The national electoral management body reports to:
Answer(s):
f . Other
Comments: f) The Home Secretary
Source: Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, Art. 6
Verified: 2016/04/11
EM004
EMB budget determined by
Question: The budget of the national electoral management body is determined by:
Answer(s):
d . A national government department
Comments: Article 13(6): The total expenditure incurred in any financial year by the Commission in performing their functions under subsection (1) (whether by making grants or otherwise) shall not exceed such sum as is for the time being specified for the purposes of this subsection by an order made by the Secretary of State with the consent of the Treasury.
13(8) Subsection (6) shall not apply to the expenditure incurred by the Commission in performing their functions exercisable [in relation to local government elections in Scotland];
13(12) Subsection (6) shall not apply to the expenditure incurred by the Commission to the extent that it is, or is to be, met under [paragraph 16A of Schedule 1 to this Act or] paragraph 6 of Schedule 2 to the Government of Wales Act 2006.]
Source: Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, Art. 13(6): https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2000/41/section/13
Verified: 2025/06/12
EM005
EMB expenditures controlled by
Question: The expenditures of the national electoral management body are controlled by:
Answer(s):
d . A national government department
Comments: Article 13(6): The total expenditure incurred in any financial year by the Commission in performing their functions under subsection (1) (whether by making grants or otherwise) shall not exceed such sum as is for the time being specified for the purposes of this subsection by an order made by the Secretary of State with the consent of the Treasury.
Article 12(9): The Secretary of State may by order made with the consent of the Treasury vary the sum for the time being specified in subsection.
Source: Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, Art. 12, 13: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2000/41/section/13
Verified: 2025/06/12
EM006
Term of EMB members
Question: The term of the members of the national electoral management body is:
Answer:
b . For a specified number of years
Comments: Article 3(3): Such an Address shall specify the period (not exceeding 10 years) for which each proposed Electoral Commissioner to whom the Address relates is to hold office as such Commissioner or (as the case may be) the period for which the proposed chairman of the Commission is to hold office as such chairman.
Source: Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, Art. 3: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2000/41/section/3
Verified: 2025/06/12
EM007
Question: The national electoral management body chairperson, or equivalent, is chosen in the following way:
Answer(s):
g . Other
Comments: g) Appointed by the Queen
Source: Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, Art. 1(4)
Verified: 2016/04/11
EM012
Electoral Management model
Question: What is the Electoral Management model?
Answer:
b . Independent
Comments: The Electoral Commission is an independent electoral management body. The commissioners are selected by parliament and approved by the acting Monarch as pursuant with the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act (2000). In Schedule 1 Article 1 of the previous act, it states "The Commission shall not be regarded—
(a)as the servant or agent of the Crown, or
(b)as enjoying any status, immunity or privilege of the Crown.
Source: The Electoral Commission: https://www.electoralcommission.org.uk/about-us/our-commissioners-and-teams/selecting-our-commissioners
Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, Part I & Schedule 1: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2000/41/part/I
Verified: 2025/06/12
EM013
Number of EMB members
Question: The EMB is composed of:
Answer:
a . 1 - 10 members (specify)
Comments: Article 1(3): There shall be nine or ten Electoral Commissioners.
Source: Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, Art. 1(3): https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2000/41/part/I
Verified: 2025/06/12
EM014
Membership based on
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected on the basis of their:
Answer:
c . Combination of partisanship and expertise
Comments: There are various internal requirements that control the selection of commissioners. First, one commissioner must represent Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, respectively (three total). Second, each of the largest three parties puts forth a candidate while the remaining parties put forth a fourth potential commissioner. The remaining are chosen by parliament. On the Electoral Commission's webpage, they describe the ten Commissioners as each having "different political backgrounds and experience" which "ensures broad representation and balanced views."
Source: Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, Schedule I: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2000/41/schedule/1
The Electoral Commission: https://www.electoralcommission.org.uk/about-us/our-commissioners-and-teams/our-commissioners
Verified: 2025/06/12
EM015
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected by:
Answer(s):
a . Head of State
Comments: Article 1(4): The Electoral Commissioners shall be appointed by [the Monarch] (in accordance with section 3)."
However, this is largely a ceremonial role with Parliament selecting candidates for the acting monarch to appoint.
Source: Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, Part 1 & Schedule 1: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2000/41/part/I
Verified: 2025/06/12
Voter Education
VE001
Information campaigns performed by
Question: Who conducts information campaigns for national elections (informing where, when and how to register and/or vote)?
Answer(s):
a . National Electoral Management Body c . Local/County Electoral Management Bodies d . National Government f . Local Governments g . NGOs/ Civic Organizations h . Political parties/ candidates i . Media
Comments: The Electoral Commission is responsible for promoting public awareness and education around the electoral systems in the U.K. - The Electoral Commission is the primary body responsible for national voter information campaigns. It runs public education campaigns, provides guidance on voter registration, ID requirements, and voting procedures.
- Local Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) and Returning Officers provide localized information, such as polling station locations and local voting logistics.
- The UK Government, particularly the Cabinet Office, supports national campaigns and policy implementation, especially around new voting requirements (e.g., voter ID).
- National and local media outlets play a significant role in disseminating voter information, often amplifying official messages and deadlines.
- NGOs/Civil Organizations: Groups like Democracy Club, Unlock Democracy, and others run independent campaigns to raise awareness and encourage voter participation.
- While their primary goal is campaigning, political parties also inform voters about how and where to vote, especially in targeted constituencies.
Source: Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, Article 13: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2000/41/section/13
Verified: 2025/06/16
VE002
Frequency of voter education programs
Question: At the national level, how often are voter education programs conducted?
Answer:
a . Continuously
Comments:
Source: Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, Article 13: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2000/41/section/13
Official Website of Parliament: http://www.parliament.uk/education/
The Electoral Commission: https://www.electoralcommission.org.uk/
Verified: 2025/06/16
VE003
National civic education
Question: Is there a national civic education campaign (rights and responsibilities of citizens)?
Answer(s):
b . Yes, conducted by the National Electoral Management Body e . Yes, conducted by the Government
Comments: Art 13(1) The Commission shall promote public awareness of—
a) current electoral systems in the United Kingdom and any pending such systems, together with such matters connected with any such existing or pending systems as the Commission may determine; marking of ballot papers in any election mentioned in section 9A
Source: Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, Article 13: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2000/41/section/13
The Electoral Commission: https://www.electoralcommission.org.uk/
Verified: 2025/06/16
VE004
Question: What types of voter education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Poster/ Billboard campaigns b . Media advertisement c . Simulation exercises g . Internet h . Other
Comments: h) Quiz
Source: Official Website of the Parliament: http://www.parliament.uk/education/online-resources/parliament-explained/ (2012);
Official Website of the Electoral Commission: http://www.electoralcommission.org.uk/elections (2012)
Verified: 2016/04/11
VE005
Question: What types of civic education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Poster/ Billboard campaigns b . Media advertisement c . Simulation exercises g . Internet h . Handouts (printed material) j . Other
Comments: j) Quiz
Source: Official Website of the Parliament: http://www.parliament.uk/education/online-resources/parliament-explained/ (2012);
Official Website of the Electoral Commission: http://www.electoralcommission.org.uk/elections (2012)
Verified: 2016/04/11
VE006
Question: Special voter education programs were developed at the most recent national elections for:
Answer(s):
a . Disabled b . Young people/ first time voters
Comments:
Source: Official Website of the Electoral Commission: http://www.electoralcommission.org.uk/voter-registration/voters (2012);
http://www.aboutmyvote.co.uk/default.aspx;
Official Website of the Parliament: http://www.parliament.uk/education/online-resources/parliament-explained/general-elections/ (2012)
Verified: 2016/04/11
Voter Registration
VR001
Voting age
Question: What is the legal voting age in the national elections?
Answer:
c . 18
Comments:
Source: Representation of the People Act 1969 (c.15)
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1969/630/pdfs/uksi_19690630_en.pdf
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1969/904/pdfs/uksi_19690904_en.pdf
Representation of the People Act 1983, Art. 1(c)
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1983/2/contents/data.pdf
Verified: 2025/06/16
VR002
Other voting requirements
Question: Beyond age, what other qualifications exist for registering to vote and voting in the national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Citizenship e . Other
Comments: a) Commonwealth citizenship;
e) Registration in the register of parliamentary electors for that constituency;
Not subject to any legal incapacity to vote
Source: Representation of the People Act 1983, Art. 1
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1983/2/contents/data.pdf
Verified: 2025/06/16
VR003
Question: What restrictions on registering to vote and voting exist in the country?
Answer(s):
a . Criminal Incarceration d . Mental disability h . Other
Comments: h) Convention dictates that the Queen does not vote;
i) Members of the House of Lords cannot vote in a General Election
Source: s.4, Representation of the People Act, 1983
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1983/2/contents/data.pdf
Verified: 2016/04/11
VR004
Authority responsible for voter registration
Question: Which is the authority responsible for the registration of voters for national elections?
Answer:
c . Local Government Authority
Comments: c) Electoral Registration Offices
Source: Representation of the People Act 1983, Art. 8
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1983/2/contents/data.pdf
Verified: 2025/06/16
VR005
Question: What is the registration method for national elections?
Answer:
b . Voters register
Comments: b) Voters are not automatically registered.
Source: Representation of the People Act 1983, Art. 10A;
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1983/2/contents/data.pdf
https://www.aboutmyvote.co.uk/register_to_vo/electoral_registration_applica.aspx (2012)
Verified: 2016/04/11
VR006
Question: How frequently is the voters register updated?
Answer:
a . Continuously
Comments: a) The electoral register is updated monthly between December and September
Source: Representation of the People Act 1983, Art. 10;
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1983/2/contents/data.pdf
http://www.aboutmyvote.co.uk/faq/registering_to_vote.aspx (2012)
Verified: 2016/04/11
VR007
Question: What methods are used to compile and update the voters register?
Answer(s):
d . Registration by mail e . Appearance by voter at registration office f . Door-to-door registration campaign i . Internet registration
Comments:
Source: Representation of the People Act 1983, Art. 9A, 10A;
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1983/2/contents/data.pdf
https://www.aboutmyvote.co.uk/register_to_vo/electoral_registration_applica.aspx (2012)
Verified: 2016/04/11
VR008
Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Question: Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Citizens are legally obliged to respond to requests for registration information from their local electoral registration office. If they do not respond, or if they provide false information, they may receive a £1,000 fine. Not being registered may also affect their credit rating. However, citizens may register anonymously. If one is registered anonymously, instead of one’s name and address appearing on the electoral register, a code will be added to the register instead.
Source: The Representation of the People (England and Wales) Regulations 2001, art. 23;
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2001/341/contents/data.pdf
https://www.yourvotematters.co.uk/faq/registering-to-vote
Verified: 2025/06/16
Parties and Candidates
PC001
Registration requirements for parties (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
f . Other
Comments: b) 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.
Parties can only be registered if party candidates will be put up to contest elections. Otherwise, candidates can stand as independents and they don’t need to register a political party to stand for election
Once registered, a party’s name, description and emblem can appear on the ballot paper alongside the name of its candidate
Source: Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2022, Art. 28;
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2000/41/section/28#commentary-key-e27b2b20645410eba82524ec4149f891
Official Website of the Electoral Commission: Electoral Commission’s “Introduction to registering a political party”: (2017)
https://www.electoralcommission.org.uk/political-registration-and-regulation/political-party-registration
Verified: 2025/06/17
PC003
Registration requirements for candidates (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship
Comments: Art. 17(a) 18 years old
Art. 18(a) a qualifying Commonwealth citizen, or
Art. 18(b) a citizen of the Republic of Ireland.
Source: Electoral Administration Act 2006, Art. 17-18
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2006/22/part/5
Verified: 2025/06/17
PC005
Question: What are the legal qualifications for becoming a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
k . Not applicable
Comments: Presidential elections are not held.
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
PC006
Question: What can disqualify a candidate at legislative elections?
Answer(s):
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: n) Members of Chamber 2
o) As defined in House of Commons Disqualification Act 1975
Source: Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 (as amended);
Political Parties and Elections Act 2009;
Electoral Administration Act 2006
Verified: 2012/05/09
PC007
Question: What can disqualify a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
o . Not applicable
Comments: Presidential elections are not held.
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
PC008
Independent candidates
Question: Can independent candidates compete in presidential or legislative elections?
Answer(s):
c . In legislative elections (Chamber 1)
Comments:
Source: Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 (as amended, 2025), art. 22;
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2000/41/section/28#commentary-key-e27b2b20645410eba82524ec4149f891
Political Parties and Elections Act 2009;
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2009/12/contents
Electoral Administration Act 2006
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2006/22/part/5
Verified: 2025/06/17
PC009
Question: If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 1), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
a . Signature requirement (specify) b . Deposit requirement (specify)
Comments: a) sign nomination paper (supported by signatures of 10 electors)
b) £ 500 (USD 730)
Source: Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 (as amended), Art. 22;
Representation of the People Act 1983, Schedule 1: Art. 6, 7, 8, 9;
Electoral Administration Act 2006, Art. 19
Verified: 2012/05/09
PC010
Question: If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 2), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
PC011
Question: If independent candidates can compete in presidential elections, what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
e . Not Applicable
Comments: Presidential elections are not held.
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
PC012
Public funding of parties
Question: Do political parties receive direct/indirect public funding?
Answer(s):
b . Direct c . Indirect
Comments: Public funding is provided:
- to opposition parties to facilitate their parliamentary opposition functions;
- Parties in Parliament are entitled to £2m between them as "Policy Development Grant";
Direct Public Funding:
- Short Money: Provided to opposition parties in the House of Commons to support their parliamentary work.
- Cranborne Money: Similar funding for opposition parties in the House of Lords.
- Policy Development Grants: Offered to help parties develop policies for inclusion in their manifestos.
Indirect Funding
- Includes free broadcasting time during election campaigns and subsidised postage for election communications.
- Private funding is unlimited provided that the donor is "legal" (foreign donors not allowed), and comes from membership fees, donations (from individuals, companies, and trade unions), and loans.
Source: Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, Part IV, Section 50-71; Part V, Section 72-88; Part VI, Section 89-100, Part IX, Section 131-148; Section 12, part 1.
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2000/41/part/IV
Representation of the People Act 1983
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1983/2/contents
Electoral Administration Act 2006, Part 7, Art.91-98
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2006/22/part/7
House of Commons and Lords Resolutions
https://researchbriefings.files.parliament.uk/documents/SN07137/SN07137.pdf
Verified: 2025/06/17
PC013
Question: If political parties receive direct/indirect public funding, when do they receive this?
Answer(s):
c . As related to the election period and between elections
Comments:
Source: Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, Ch.41, Section 12;
Electoral Administration Act 2006, Part 7, Art. 91 - 98
Verified: 2012/05/09
PC014
Question: If political parties receive indirect public funding, identify the type of funding:
Answer(s):
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: Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, Ch.41, Section 12;
Electoral Administration Act 2006, Part 7;
Representation of the People Act 1983, Art. 91 - 98 and Schedule 1
Verified: 2012/05/09
PC015
Question: What is the basis of the public funding?
Answer(s):
e . Other
Comments: e) Largest party criteria other than ruling party; "Policy Development Grants"
Art. 12 Policy development grants.
(1) For the purposes of this section—
(a) “a policy development grant” is a grant to a represented registered party to
assist the party with the development of policies for inclusion in any manifesto
Source: Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, Art. 12;
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2000/41/data.pdf
Representation of the People Act 1983, Art. 91 - 98
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1983/2/contents/data.pdf
Verified: 2025/06/23
PC016
Question: If political parties receive public funding, what is the specified purpose?
Answer(s):
a . General party administration b . Election campaign activities d . Other
Comments: 1) Funding to opposition aims at enabling effective opposition
2) "Policy Development Grants" aim at assisting parties in the development of policies for inclusion in their election manifestos.
Source: Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, Art. 12;
Representation of the People Act 1983, Art. 91 - 98
Verified: 2012/05/09
PC017
Question: Are political parties entitled to private funding?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, Part IV;
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2000/41/data.pdf
Electoral Administration Act 2006, Part 7: Art. 55 - 63;
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2006/22/part/7
Representation of the People Act 1983, Art. 71A - 90D
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1983/2/contents/data.pdf
Verified: 2025/06/23
PC018
Question: If political parties are entitled to private funding, for what period?
Answer(s):
c . As related to the election period and between elections
Comments:
Source: Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, Part IV;
Electoral Administration Act 2006, Part 7: Art. 55 - 63;
Representation of the People Act 1983, Art. 71A - 90D
Verified: 2012/05/09
PC019
Question: Which of the following party financing provisions are applicable?
Answer(s):
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
Comments:
Source: Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, Part III - IV;
Electoral Administration Act 2006, Part 7: Art. 55 - 63;
Representation of the People Act 1983, Art. 71A - 90D
Verified: 2012/05/09
PC020
Question: Which of the following candidate financing provisions are applicable?
Answer(s):
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: Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, Part III - IV;
Electoral Administration Act 2006, Part 7: Art. 55 - 63;
Representation of the People Act 1983, Art. 71A - 90D
Verified: 2012/05/09
PC021
Question: Who is responsible for administering and enforcing party income/funding regulations at national level?
Answer(s):
a . National Electoral Management body
Comments: a) The Electoral Commission
Source: Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, Part I: Art. 9C, Part II, Art. 45, 47;
Electoral Administration Act 2006, Part 7: Art 54
Verified: 2012/05/09
Vote Counting
VC001
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Single ballot (all registered parties listed) d . Categorical (only one mark allowed) e . Ability to vote for candidates within parties (personal vote) 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: m) by candidate name
Source: Electoral Administration Act 2006, ch. 22, Part 6, Section 30 - 33;
Representation of the People Act 1983, Schedule 1, Art. 19, 37, 38
Verified: 2012/05/09
VC002
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
s . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
VC003
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
s . Not Applicable
Comments: Presidential elections are not held.
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
VC004
Votes are sorted/counted at
Question: Following the close of the voting, where are the votes first sorted and counted?
Answer:
c . Special counting centres
Comments: 43(1) As soon as practicable after the close of the poll, the presiding officer shall, 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
44(1) The returning officer shall make arrangements for counting the votes in the presence of the counting agents as soon as practicable after the close of the poll, and shall give to the counting agents notice in writing of the time and place at which he will begin to count the votes.
45(1)The returning officer shall—
(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.
(1A) The returning officer shall not count the votes given on any ballot papers until—
(a)in the case of postal ballot papers, they have been mixed with the ballot papers from at least one ballot box, and
(b)in the case of ballot papers from a ballot box, they have been mixed with the ballot papers from at least one other ballot box.]
54(1) On the completion of the counting at a contested election the returning officer shall seal up in separate packets the counted and rejected ballot papers.
(2) The returning officer shall not open the sealed packets of—
(a)tendered ballot papers,
(aa)tendered postal ballot papers,
(b)the completed corresponding number lists,
Source: Representation of the People Act 1983, Schedule 1, Art. 43, 44, 45, 54
Verified: 2025/06/23
VC005
Question: What procedures are used in the initial count?
Answer(s):
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
Comments:
Source: Representation of the People Act 1983, Schedule 1, Art. 44, 45, 54
Verified: 2012/05/09
VC006
Question: Following the sorting and counting, to where are the results first transmitted for consolidation?
Answer(s):
f . Other
Comments: f) The Registration Officer
Source: Representation of the People Act 1983, Schedule 1, Art. 55
Verified: 2012/05/09
VC007
Question: At what levels are seats allocated?
Answer(s):
c . Regional level (specify whether it is constituency/ province/ state/ department/other)
Comments: Constituency
Source: Parliamentary Voting System and Constituencies Act 2011, Schedule 2, Section 3
Verified: 2012/05/09
VC008
Question: How are the initial/preliminary polling results transmitted and communicated to the different levels?
Answer(s):
a . Physically transported
Comments:
Source: Representation of the People Act 1983, Schedule 1, Art. 55
Verified: 2012/05/09
VC009
Question: If the polling results are physically transported, what is transported?
Answer(s):
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 h . Other
Comments:
Source: Representation of the People Act 1983, Schedule 1, Art. 55
Verified: 2012/05/09
VC010
Question: If the polling results are physically transported, what security measures are used?
Answer(s):
b . Tamper proof bags
Comments:
Source: Representation of the People Act 1983, Schedule 1, Art. 54, 55
Verified: 2012/05/09
VC011
When are ballots recounted?
Question: Under what conditions are ballots recounted?
Answer(s):
f . Other
Comments: 46(1) "A candidate or his election agent may, if present when the counting or any recount of the votes is completed, require the returning officer to have the votes recounted or again recounted but the returning officer may refuse to do so if in his opinion the request is unreasonable."
Source: Representation of the People Act 1983, Schedule 1, Art. 46
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1983/2/schedule/1/paragraph/46
Verified: 2025/06/23
VC012
Question: If automatically recounted, what is the trigger?
Answer:
e . Not applicable
Comments: The ballots are not automatically recounted.
Source: Representation of the People Act 1983, Schedule 1, Art. 46
Verified: 2012/05/09
VC013
Question: If ballots are recounted by request, who can make the request?
Answer(s):
b . An individual candidate f . Other
Comments: A candidate or his election agent may, if present when the counting or any recount of the votes is completed, require the returning officer to have the votes recounted or again recounted but the returning officer may refuse to do so if in his opinion the request is unreasonable.
Source: Representation of the People Act 1983, Schedule 1, Art. 46
Verified: 2012/05/09
VC014
Question: If recounted, who conducts the recount?
Answer(s):
f . Local Government agency (specify)
Comments: f) The competent Returning Officer
Source: Representation of the People Act 1983, Schedule 1, Art. 46
Verified: 2012/05/09
VC015
Question: Are preliminary results announced?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: When the result of the poll has been ascertained, the Returning Officer shall forthwith declare to be elected the candidate to whom the majority of votes has been given; return his name to the Clerk of the Crown; and give public notice of his name and of 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.
Source: Representation of the People Act 1983, Schedule 1, Art. 50
Verified: 2012/05/09
VC017
Question: Is there a legal requirement for the declaration of the officially certified results?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: When the result of the poll has been ascertained, the Returning Officer shall forthwith declare to be elected the candidate to whom the majority of votes has been given; return his name to the Clerk of the Crown; and give public notice of his name and of 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. Furthermore, the returning officer shall return the name of the member elected by endorsing on the writ a certificate.
Source: Representation of the People Act 1983, Schedule 1, Art. 50, 51
Verified: 2012/05/09
VC018
Question: How long after the close of polls is the certified results publicly announced? (if there is no legal requirement enter the average time)
Answer:
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: Representation of the People Act 1983, Schedule 1, Art. 50, 51;
Official Website of the Electoral Commission: http://www.electoralcommission.org.uk/ (2012)
Verified: 2012/05/09
Media and Elections
ME020
Question: Who grants licenses/frequencies to private broadcasters?
Answer:
b . Independent regulator
Comments: b) The Independent Television Commission
Source: Broadcasting Act 1990 as amended, Part I, Art. 3 - 12
Verified: 2012/05/09
ME024
Question: What legal instruments are used to regulate media coverage of elections?
Answer(s):
a . Law
Comments:
Source: Representation of the People Act 1983, Part II, Art. 92, 93;
Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, Part X, Art. 144
Verified: 2012/05/09
ME037
Criteria for allocating free broadcast time
Question: What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to political parties?
Answer(s):
e . As agreed by special committee
Comments: The Broadcasters' Liaison Group was formed in 1997 and comprises of representatives of each of the broadcasters who make airtime available to registered political parties and to designated organisations in referendum campaigns.
Each broadcaster is responsible for deciding the allocations made available to a political party. However, through the BLG, broadcasters work together with the Electoral Commission to ensure a consistent approach.
Meetings of the BLG are chaired by the BBC's Chief Adviser, Politics.
The group meets from time to time to co-ordinate the criteria which each broadcaster applies in determining the amount of airtime to be made available.
Broadcasting opportunities made available to political parties fall into three categories:
Party Election Broadcasts (PEBs), which are offered to qualifying political parties, registered with the Electoral Commission, in the run-up to elections
Party Political Broadcasts (PPBs)
Ministerial Broadcasts, which, in exceptional circumstance, are offered to the government followed normally, by responses by the main opposition parties.
There is no free printed advertisement space allocated 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.
As required by section 11(3) of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, this criteria for allocating party election broadcasts must be sent to the Electoral Commission for comment.
Source: Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, art. 11(3)
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2000/41/data.pdf
Official Website of the Broadcasters Liaison Group:(2015)
http://www.broadcastersliaisongroup.org.uk/
Verified: 2025/06/23
ME059
Television debates
Question: Are televised debates between candidates or party representatives normally conducted?
Answer(s):
b . Yes, in legislative elections
Comments:
Source: UK Parliament House of Commons Library - General Election television debates research briefing
https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/research-briefings/sn05241/
History and future of TV Election Debates in the UK (2017):
https://historyandpolicy.org/opinion-articles/articles/the-history-and-future-of-televised-election-debates-in-britain/
Verified: 2025/06/23
ME062
Blackout period for release of opinion poll results.
Question: What is the blackout period, if any, during which results of pre-election opinion polls may not be released to the public?
Answer:
h . Not applicable
Comments: Opinion polls may be published up to polling day, but exit polls can only be published after the close of poll.
The Representation of the People Act 1983 prohibits the publication of the results of polls conducted on Election Day whilst voting is taking place. This is outlined in Ofcom’s (the communication services regulator) Broadcasting Code.
"185.The Representation of the People Act 1983 prohibits, before the poll for an election has closed, the publication of the following:
“(a) any statement relating to the way in which voters have voted at the election where that statement is (or might reasonably be taken to be) based on information given by voters after they have voted, or
(b) any forecast as to the result of the election which is (or might reasonably be taken to be) based on information so given.”
186. Aside from these provisions, there is no legal regulation of polling in the UK. Instead, most of the polling organisations belong to one or both of two industry bodies which require them to comply with their codes of conduct: the British Polling Council (BPC) and the Market Research Society (MRS)."
Source: United Kingdom Parliament: The Politics of Polling, Ch. 5: Oversight of polling
https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/ld201719/ldselect/ldppdm/106/10608.htm
Ofcom, Section six: elections and referendums (2024):
https://www.ofcom.org.uk/tv-radio-and-on-demand/broadcast-standards/section-six-elections-referendums
Verified: 2025/06/23
ME064
Question: If exit polls are permitted, when can the results be disseminated via the media?
Answer(s):
b . After all polls close
Comments:
Source: Representation of the People Act 1983, ch. 2, Part I, Section 66A
Verified: 2012/05/09
ME065
Question: When are the media, by law, allowed to report preliminary election results?
Answer:
b . After all polls close, before official results are available
Comments:
Source: Representation of the People Act 1983, ch. 2, Part I, Section 66A
Verified: 2012/05/09
ME080
Question: Is there a maximum amount that a political party is permitted to spend on paid advertising during a campaign period?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Before elections and referendums, there is a regulated period for the campaign that puts a limit on spending. These limits apply to candidates, political parties and non-party campaigners.
Spending limits vary for different elections.
Each election the Electoral Commission publishes an updated "Guidance on Campaign Spending" with details on the limits parties can spend on party spending and candidate spending.
"Returning Officers must receive spending returns from all candidates by a certain date, which varies depending on the election. The Returning Officer is then responsible for making the returns available for public inspection." (UK Electoral Commission, 2015)
Source: Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 (as amended), Schedule 9;
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2000/41/data.pdf
United Kingdom Electoral Commission (2015):
http://www.electoralcommission.org.uk/find-information-by-subject/political-parties-campaigning-and-donations/candidate-spending-and-donations-at-elections
Verified: 2025/06/25
Direct Democracy
DD002
Direct Democracy Provisions (National Level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy Procedures at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
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
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2000/41/section/101
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008)
http://www.idea.int/sites/default/files/publications/direct-democracy-the-international-idea-handbook.pdf
Verified: 2025/06/30
DD003
Mandatory referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Mandatory Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Political Parties elections and referendums Act 2000, Part VII. The Conduct Regulations
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2000/41/part/VII
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008)
http://www.idea.int/sites/default/files/publications/direct-democracy-the-international-idea-handbook.pdf
Verified: 2025/06/30
DD004
Optional referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Optional Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Political Parties elections and referendums Act 2000, Part VII. The Conduct Regulations
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2000/41/part/VII
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/sites/default/files/publications/direct-democracy-the-international-idea-handbook.pdf
Verified: 2025/06/30
DD005
Citizens' Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Citizen’s Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: Referendums in the UK are held at the discretion of Parliament, meaning they must be authorized through legislation passed by Parliament.
Source: Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008)
http://www.idea.int/sites/default/files/publications/direct-democracy-the-international-idea-handbook.pdf
Verified: 2025/06/30
DD006
Agenda Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Agenda Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: There is no formal legal mechanism for citizens to compel Parliament to place a specific issue on its legislative agenda through a public initiative.
The closest equivalent is the UK Parliament petitions system, where:
- Petitions with 10,000+ signatures receive a government response.
- Petitions with 100,000+ signatures are considered for debate in Parliament.
However, these debates do not guarantee legislative action and are non-binding.
Source: Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008)
http://www.idea.int/sites/default/files/publications/direct-democracy-the-international-idea-handbook.pdf
Verified: 2025/06/30
DD007
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Recalls at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008)
http://www.idea.int/sites/default/files/publications/direct-democracy-the-international-idea-handbook.pdf
Verified: 2025/06/30
DD008
Question: 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.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD009
Question: 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.
Answer(s):
b . Specific laws/legislation c . Regulations
Comments:
Source: Political Parties elections and referendums Act 2000, Part VII. The Conduct Regulations.
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD010
Question: 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.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD100
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for an agenda initiative?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD101
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for a recall?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD103
Question: What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD104
Question: What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a recall?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD107
Question: 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 an initiative?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD108
Question: 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?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD109
Question: What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for a referendum?
Answer(s):
a . Information booklets b . Leaflets and pamphlets c . Radio broadcasts d . TV broadcasts e . Press advertisements
Comments:
Source: Official Website of the Electoral Commission: http://www.electoralcommission.org.uk/ (2012);
Official Website of the Broadcasters Liaison Group: http://www.broadcastersliaisongroup.org.uk/allocation/northernireland2011assemRef.html (2012)
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD011
Question: 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.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD110
Question: What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for an initiative?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD111
Question: What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for a recall?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD112
Question: Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in a referendum?
Answer(s):
a . Compulsory registration of campaigners and campaign groups b . Expenditure limits c . Contribution limits d . Restrictions on the sources of contributions e . Disclosure requirements
Comments:
Source: Political Parties Elections and referendums Act 2000
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD113
Question: Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in an initiative?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD114
Question: Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in a recall?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD115
Question: What is the period during which these controls apply for a referendum?
Answer:
a . Fixed time period (specify)
Comments: a) referendum period as defined in the legislation.
Source: The Political Parties Elections and Referendums Act 2000
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD116
Question: What is the period during which these controls apply for an initiative?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD117
Question: What is the period during which these controls apply for a recall?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD118
Question: Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for a referendum? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
a . Single designated campaign organisation for each side
Comments:
Source: The Political Parties Elections and Referendums Act 2000
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD119
Question: Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for an initiative? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD012
Question: 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.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD120
Question: Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for a recall? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD121
Question: Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for a referendum? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD122
Question: Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for an initiative? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD123
Question: Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for a recall? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD127
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign for a recall?
Answer:
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD015
Question: Who is responsible for managing the administration of direct democracy mechanisms at the national level?
Answer(s):
a . Government (specify department) b . Independent electoral commission
Comments: The Department of Constitutional Affairs is responsible for drafting the legislation, local government staff are responsible for physically administering voting, while the independent Electoral Commission has a number of other statutory roles with regards to the referendum, including being consulted on the legislation, paying the local authority staff and providing training and guidance to the local authority staff.
Source: Political Parties Elections and Referendums Act 2000
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD016
Question: Does this agency/department also manage the administration of national elections?
Answer:
a . Yes
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: Political Parties Elections and Referendums Act 2000
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD017
Question: Are mandatory referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD018
Question: Are optional referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
b . Yes, in some regions/states/provinces
Comments:
Source: Political Parties Elections and Referendums Act 2000.
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD019
Question: Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD020
Question: Are agenda initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD021
Question: Are recalls currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD022
Question: Are mandatory referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD023
Question: Are optional referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
a . Yes, in all municipalities/districts/communes
Comments:
Source: Local Government Act 2000. Part II & Local Authorities (Conduct of Referendums) (England) Regulations 2001.
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD024
Question: Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
a . Yes, in all municipalities/districts/communes
Comments:
Source: Local Government Act 2000. Part II & Local Authorities (Conduct of Referendums) (England) Regulations 2001.
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD025
Question: Are agenda initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD026
Question: Are recalls currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD027
Question: What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are mandatory at the national level?
Answer(s):
l . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD029
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of referendums at the national level?
Answer(s):
k . None
Comments: An Act of Parliament could bring forward a referendum on any issue at national level.
Source: Political Parties Elections and Referendums Act 2000
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD031
Question: Who can initiate a referendum at the national level?
Answer(s):
d . Legislative majority
Comments:
Source: The Political Parties Elections and Referendums Act 2000.
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD032
Question: Who is responsible for drafting the mandatory referendum question?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD033
Question: Who is responsible for drafting the optional referendum question?
Answer(s):
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
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD034
Question: Which of the following, if any, are required to be included in the mandatory referendum question?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD036
Question: Which institution(s) decides on the final form of the ballot text for mandatory referendums?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD040
Question: What are the requirements for mandatory referendums to pass?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD041
Question: What are the requirements for optional referendums to pass?
Answer(s):
d . Other (specify below)
Comments: A simple majority is sufficient. 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.
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD043
Question: When is the outcome of a mandatory referendum binding?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD044
Question: When is the outcome of an optional referendum binding?
Answer:
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: Political Parties Elections and Referendums Act 2000
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD045
Question: Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the citizens' initiative process at the national level?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD046
Question: Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the agenda initiative process at the national level?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD047
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of a citizens' initiative at the national level?
Answer(s):
l . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD048
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of an agenda initiative at the national level?
Answer(s):
l . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD049
Question: Who may propose the registration of a citizens' initiative? Please specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD050
Question: Who may propose the registration of an agenda initiative? Please specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD051
Question: What material is necessary to accompany an application for registration?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD052
Question: Who determines the title of a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD053
Question: Who determines the title of an agenda initiative?
Answer:
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD054
Question: Which, if any, of the following disqualify a proposed title of an initiative?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD055
Question: Which services are provided by the agency/department responsible for the administration of direct democracy mechanisms before an initiative can be published?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD056
Question: Under what circumstances is an initiative checked for constitutionality or legality?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD057
Question: If a check of the constitutionality or legality of an initiative takes place, who is responsible for undertaking it?
Answer(s):
f . Other (specify)
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD058
Question: If a check of the constitutionality or legality of an initiative takes place, when does this happen?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD059
Question: Which institutions, if any, are given an opportunity to propose an alternative to proposals contained in a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD060
Question: At which stage in the initiative process, if at all, can alternative proposals be made?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD061
Question: What happens when there is a valid alternative proposal?
Answer:
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD062
Question: When an initiative proposal and an alternative proposal are put to the vote on the same day, what choices does the voter have?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD063
Question: Who decides the final ballot text?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD064
Question: Once an initiative is qualified for the ballot, the vote on it takes place:
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD065
Question: Which of the following individuals/positions may be subject to the recall mechanism?
Answer(s):
k . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD066
Question: What are the grounds upon which a recall may be launched?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD068
Question: If a recall qualifies for the ballot, when is it put to the vote?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD069
Question: When does the election to replace an individual who has been recalled take place?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD071
Question: Can an individual who is the subject of a recall stand on the ballot for his/her own replacement?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD078
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for a citizens' initiative has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD079
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for an agenda initiative has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD082
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD083
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for an agenda initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD085
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for recall has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD086
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for a recall?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD089
Question: Where can proposals for a citizens' initiative be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD090
Question: Where can proposals for an agenda initiative be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD091
Question: Where can proposals for a recall be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD094
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD095
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for an agenda initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD096
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a recall?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD099
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2012/05/09
DD129
Question: Are the results of referenda always binding, never binding or sometimes binding?
Answer:
b . Sometimes binding
Comments:
Source: Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008)
http://www.idea.int/sites/default/files/publications/direct-democracy-the-international-idea-handbook.pdf
Political Parties Elections and Referendums Act 2000
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2000/41/contents
Verified: 2025/06/30
DD130
Question: Are the types of issues to vote upon in a referendum constitutional changes only, other issues only or both constitutional and other issues?
Answer:
c . Both constitutional and other issues
Comments:
Source: Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008)
http://www.idea.int/sites/default/files/publications/direct-democracy-the-international-idea-handbook.pdf
Political Parties Elections and Referendums Act 2000
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2000/41/contents
Verified: 2025/06/30
DD131
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy at sub-national levels (regional or local)?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008)
http://www.idea.int/sites/default/files/publications/direct-democracy-the-international-idea-handbook.pdf
Local Government Act 2000. Part II
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2000/22/contents
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2000/22/part/II/crossheading/referendums
Verified: 2025/06/30
Voting Operations
VO002
Question: Is there a code of conduct for election officials?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: There is guidance produced by Government Department and guidance issued by election officials' professional bodies. Electoral Commission will take on such guidance.
Source: Official Website of the Electoral Commission: http://www.electoralcommission.org.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0020/102836/Full-ARO-manual-March-2010.pdf (2012)
Verified: 2016/04/11
VO003
Electors vote at
Question: Where can electors vote?
Answer(s):
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
Comments:
Source: Representation of the People Act 1983, Art. 118, Schedule 1: Art. 24, 40
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1983/2/contents
Electoral Administration Act 2006, Art. 35, 37, 38, 40
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2006/22/contents
https://www.electoralcommission.org.uk/i-am-a/voter/your-election-information
https://wealdentest.wealden.gov.uk/voting-and-elections/electoral-registration-and-voting-frequently-asked-questions/
https://www.yourvotematters.co.uk/how-do-i-vote/voting-in-person (2017)
Verified: 2025/06/30
VO004
Voting outside the country is permitted for
Question: Who can vote from outside the country?
Answer(s):
b . Citizens residing outside the country c . Citizens outside the country (including those on vacation) d . Members of the armed forces e . Students f . Diplomatic staff g . Other
Comments: e) Over 21 years old
Source: Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, Section 141
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2000/41/data.pdf
https://www.yourvotematters.co.uk/can-i-vote/overseas (2017)
Verified: 2025/06/30
VO005
Locations for voting outside of the country
Question: If voting outside the country is permitted, at what places?
Answer(s):
d . By proxy e . By mail
Comments:
Source: Representation of the People Act 1983, art. 19, Schedule 1, Art. 24, 40;
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1983/2/contents
https://www.yourvotematters.co.uk/can-i-vote/overseas (2017)
Verified: 2025/06/30
VO006
Question: Can people vote in advance of the designated national election day(s)?
Answer:
b . Yes
Comments:
Source: About My Vote UK - Official Website: http://www.aboutmyvote.co.uk/faq/overseas_voters.aspx (2012);
Representation of the People Act 1983, Schedule 1, Art. 24, 40
Verified: 2016/04/11
VO007
Question: If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), how may they do so?
Answer(s):
b . By mail
Comments:
Source: About My Vote UK - Official Website: http://www.aboutmyvote.co.uk/faq/overseas_voters.aspx (2012);
Representation of the People Act 1983, Schedule 1, Art. 24, 40
Verified: 2016/04/11
VO008
Question: If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), specify who:
Answer(s):
a . Everyone
Comments:
Source: About My Vote UK - Official Website: http://www.aboutmyvote.co.uk/faq/overseas_voters.aspx (2012);
Representation of the People Act 1983, Schedule 1, Art. 24, 40
Verified: 2016/04/11
VO009
Question: Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Representation of the People Act 1983, Art. 18B
Verified: 2016/04/11
VO011
Voting method
Question: How do electors cast their votes?
Answer(s):
a . Manually marking of ballots
Comments:
Source: Representation of the People Act 1983, Schedule 1, Art. 19;
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1983/2/contents
Electoral Administration Act 2006, Schedule 1 Amendments, Part 1, Article 93
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2006/22/contents
Verified: 2025/06/30
VO012
How many staff are assigned to each polling station?
The smallest polling station: 2
The largest polling station:
Average per polling station:
Source
Sam Younger, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, United Kingdom, electoral.commission(a)gnet.gov.uk
Verified
2017/06/07
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