SCHEDULES

SCHEDULE 1Amendments

Part 5Conduct of elections

Identifying marks and security markings on ballot papers etc.

I186

In section 66 (requirement of secrecy), in each of the following provisions, after “number” insert “ or other unique identifying mark ”

a

subsection (2)(a);

b

subsection (3)(c);

c

subsection (4)(b) and (c);

d

subsection (5).

I287

In rule 19 of Schedule 1 (ballot papers at parliamentary elections), in paragraph (2)(c) after “number” insert “ and other unique identifying mark ”.

I388

1

Rule 20 of that Schedule (the official mark at parliamentary elections) is amended as follows.

2

For paragraph (1) substitute—

1

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

3

For paragraph (3) substitute—

3

The returning officer may use a different official mark for different purposes at the same election.

I489

In rule 29 of that Schedule (equipment of polling stations at parliamentary elections), in paragraph (3), sub-paragraph (b) is omitted.

90

1

Rule 37 of that Schedule (voting procedure at parliamentary elections) is amended as follows.

2

In paragraph (1)—

a

sub-paragraph (a) is omitted;

b

in sub-paragraph (c) for “the counterfoil” substitute “ the list mentioned in rule 29(3)(e) beside the number of the ballot paper to be issued to him ”.

3

In paragraph (2) for “the official mark” substitute “ the number and other unique identifying mark ”.

4

This paragraph extends only to Northern Ireland.

I591

In rule 45 of that Schedule (the count), in paragraph (4) after “numbers” insert “ or other unique identifying marks ”.

I692

In rule 47 of that Schedule (rejected ballot papers at parliamentary elections), in paragraph (1)(c) after “number” insert “ and other unique identifying mark ”.

I793

1

The Appendix of forms in that Schedule is amended as follows.

2

In the Directions as to printing the ballot paper, for paragraph 4 substitute—

4

The number and other unique identifying mark may be printed close to each other on the back of the ballot paper.

3

For the Form of directions for the guidance of the voters in voting substitute—

Form of directions for the guidance of the voters in voting

GUIDANCE FOR VOTERS

1

When you are given a ballot paper go to one of the compartments. Mark a cross (X) in the box on the right hand side of the ballot paper opposite the name of the candidate you are voting for.

2

Vote for one candidate only. Put no other mark on the ballot paper, or your vote may not be counted. Do not let anyone see your vote.

3

Fold the ballot paper in two. Show the back of the ballot paper to the presiding officer so as to disclose the number and other unique identifying mark. Put the ballot paper in the ballot box and leave the polling station.

4

If by mistake you spoil a ballot paper, show it to the presiding officer and ask for another one.