You must declare the name of the candidate who is elected.1
When a candidate has used their commonly used name to stand in an election, you should use both their full name and their commonly used name when declaring the result to provide transparency regarding the candidates standing for election.
However, there is no legal requirement to use both their full name and commonly used name, and you can decide on the approach to take when declaring results. Whichever approach is followed, you should ensure that you apply it consistently for all candidates and undertake any additional checks necessary on verification and count paperwork to ensure that candidates’ names appear in the same order as listed on the ballot paper.
When planning for the declaration of the result you should:
decide on the exact location in the venue where the result will be declared and who will be on the platform at this time
ensure the platform is accessible for all those who need to get up on it
consider if you can make use of display boards to provide a backdrop for the announcement of results
check any equipment that you will use for the announcement before the proceedings begin
double-check that the result is accurate, and that it is written in the form of words for oral delivery in order to avoid any errors.
ensure that all attendees are aware of the standards of behaviour expected during your announcement
consider how you will provide media representatives in attendance with a written copy of the results at the time the announcement is made as this will help them to ensure that their transmission of results is accurate
Once a result is declared, it is final and cannot be amended. You should therefore take care to ensure that the result you declare is accurate.
However, if you make an error in your oral announcement you can correct this, provided it is done immediately.
For more information on the post-result notices and other post-election procedures see our guidance for PAROs on After the election.