The Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 (PPERA) sets out the legal framework for UK-wide, national and regional referendums. It covers:
- the Commission’s role
- general rules on how referendums should be run
- rules on promotional material and campaigning in referendums
- spending restrictions for registered campaigners
Within this framework, we have a number of powers and responsibilities. There is more information on our role and responsibilities page.
Legislation for each referendum
For a referendum to take place, new legislation has to be made covering details such as:
- the date of the referendum
- the referendum question
- the detailed rules for running the referendum
- the detailed rules that apply to registered campaigners
Local referendums
PPERA does not apply to local referendums, including mayoral referendums. These are covered by the Local Government Act 2000.
Legislation for recent referendums
Referendum on the voting system for UK Parliamentary elections, 5 May 2011
The particular rules for running this referendum, as well as the date, the question, and the rules for campaigners, were set out in the Parliamentary Voting System and Constituencies Act (PVSC Act) .
Fees and charges for Counting Officers
Specific legislation also had to be put in place for this referendum to enable Counting Officers, Regional Counting Officers and the Chief Counting Officer (where appropriate) to claim back from the Government the cost of administering the referendum. This legislation and the guidance and related forms are listed below.
Issued April 2011:
- Counting Officers' expenses guidance
- Counting Officers' expenses FAQ
- Counting Officers' expenses forms
- Counting Officers' participation costs claim form
- Guidance on the process for witholding payments for services inadequately performed
National Assembly for Wales referendum, 3 March 2011
As well as the framework set out in PPERA, there were some particular rules in the Government of Wales Act that applied to this referendum.
Orders were also made that contained the more detailed rules, the date and the question, and made provision for Counting Officers to claim back the costs of administering the referendum.
Read in Welsh / Darllenwych y Gymraeg >
