Guidance for Returning Officers administering a Scottish Parliament election

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Death of a candidate

The impact of the death of a candidate on a Scottish Parliament election depends on whether the candidate was standing on behalf of a party and whether they were a candidate for a constituency or regional contest.

It is the time when you are notified of proof of the death that is important, not the actual time of death.

Proof of death is not defined. You should be satisfied with any information that you have received to indicate that the death has occurred.

Last updated: 18 November 2025