What we mean by “offensive”

We are likely to reject a name, description or emblem on grounds of offensiveness if, in our opinion, it:

  • contains offensive language, phrase or terminology
  • links something generally accepted to be offensive with a particular group of people

In assessing your proposed identity marks, we will have regard to the fact that parties must be able to express their political views and a voter must use a ballot paper in order to exercise their right to vote.

We also consider the wider external context and circumstances in which a name, description or emblem can or is likely to be used.

Last updated: 2 June 2023