5

Where–

a

the number (or numbers) on a valid declaration of identity is (or are) not the same as the number (or numbers) on the ballot paper envelope, or

b

that envelope has no number on it (or only one number when the declaration of identity has more than one),

the returning officer shall open the envelope.

6

Paragraph (7) below applies where–

a

there is a valid declaration of identity but no ballot paper envelope, or

b

the ballot paper envelope has been opened under regulation 84(3) or paragraph (5) above.

7

In the circumstances described in paragraph (6) above, the returning officer shall place–

a

in the postal ballot paper box, any ballot paper the number on which is the same as the number (or one of the numbers) on the valid declaration of identity;

b

in the receptacle for rejected votes, any other ballot paper, with the valid declaration of identity attached and marked “provisionally rejected”;

c

in the receptacle for rejected votes, any valid declaration of identity marked “provisionally rejected” where–

i

there is no ballot paper, or

ii

in the case of a declaration on which the number of more than one ballot paper appears, there is not a sufficient number of ballot papers and, in such a case, shall mark the declaration to indicate which ballot paper is missing;

d

in the receptacle for declarations of identity, any valid declaration not disposed of under sub-paragraph (b) or (c) above.