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

Returning Officer and (Acting) Returning Officer

This section of the guidance covers the appointment of the Returning Officer and (Acting) Returning officer as well as the roles and responsibilities for those appointed to this post.

It also contains guidance on the consequences of the breach of official duty and the legislative powers available to the (A)RO to use in certain circumstances.  

Additionally, this section also contains guidance on the skills and knowledge that is expected to be required of an (A)RO. 

Finally, it provides a detailed list of the relevant legislation that the guidance has been written to reflect, and which an (A)RO should be familiar with. 

Last updated: 19 December 2023