Candidates standing at local elections on May 2 this year should make sure they know their responsibilities, says the Electoral Commission, the independent elections and party finance watchdog.
The Commission has published a range of guidance for candidates and agents on who is qualified to stand, their conduct during the election, complying with the rules on what they can spend on campaigning, and what donations they can accept.
“We want it to be as easy as possible for people to stand for election, including independent candidates and people who may never have stood before,” said Victoria Fox, Electoral Commission head of guidance, party and election Finance.
“Voters need to trust those standing for elected office. That’s why it’s so important that candidates and their agents know the rules from the outset, and follow them throughout, including reporting information after the election.”
Guidance for candidates and agents for the English local election on Thursday 2 May 2013 is available on the Commission’s website.
It includes:
· qualifications for standing
· submitting nomination papers
· rules on spending and donations
· conduct during the campaign
· attending the count
· accepting office/challenging the result
(from a press release)
