Political

Guide to doubtful ballot papers: new Electoral Commission guidance published

Just out is the latest version of the Electoral Commission’s guide for (Acting) Returning Officers on how they should rule on doubtful ballot papers at the general election. The new guide includes examples using the new design of ballot papers introduced for this election.

One particular point is worth noting, even for (perhaps especially for) experienced count attendees. The guidance in 3.11 is that a ballot paper marked 1,2,3 etc. should count as a vote for the candidate with a 1 next to their name. Fans of hanging chads will, however, be disappointed by page 6.

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