Guidance for (Acting) Returning Officers administering a UK Parliamentary election in Great Britain

Candidates, or their election agent, can appoint agents to observe the opening of postal votes, the conduct of the poll at polling stations and the verification and count of votes. You are responsible for receiving the notifications of appointment of these agents.1  

You will find more details on these agents in the guidance that follows. 

You are required to ensure that all appointed agents are given a copy of the following relevant secrecy requirements for opening of postal votes, the poll and the count which we have published on our website.2

For guidance on revoking agent appointments and appointing new agents see Revoking the appointment of an election agent.