To assist LROs, we have produced guidance on how to adjudicate votes on ballot papers that may appear doubtful. This guidance is contained in our booklet Dealing with doubtful ballot papers. We have also produced a ballot paper placemat of allowed and rejected votes for quick reference.
The examples given in these documents are based on the election rules.
Please note that while these documents provide guidance for LROs, each individual LRO has the ultimate responsibility for making a decision on individual ballot papers. Additionally the PARO may also have provided guidance to the LROs in their police area in order to ensure consistency of approach across the police area.
The LRO’s decision to reject a particular ballot paper during the count or recount is final and can only be reviewed at an election petition after the declaration of the result. For more details see our guidance on election petitions.