The Scottish Parliament (Elections etc.) Order 1999

Explanatory Note

(This note is not part of the Order)

This Order makes provision as to the conduct of elections and return of members to the Scottish Parliament (“the Parliament”) which was established by the Scotland Act 1998.

Part I of the Order contains general provisions concerning the commencement, citation and interpretation of the Order.

Part II of the Order makes provision about the franchise for the Parliament and its exercise.

Part III of the Order makes provision concerning election campaigns at Scottish parliamentary elections.

Part IV of the Order (with Schedule 6) makes provision in connection with legal proceedings.

Part V of the Order makes miscellaneous and supplemental provision, for example, in relation to the filling of certain vacancies.

Schedule 1 makes provision in respect of electors lists and registers.

Schedule 2 contains the Scottish Parliamentary Election Rules.

Schedule 3 makes provision concerning absent voting.

Schedule 4 makes provision about the issue and receipt of postal ballot papers.

Schedule 5 makes provision concerning the combination of polls.

Schedule 6 applies certain provisions of the Representation of the People Act 1983 with modifications, concerning with legal proceedings.

Schedule 7 makes provision in connection with the use of rooms in school premises and meeting rooms for election meetings.

Schedule 8 makes modifications of certain enactments which are consequential on the provision of the Order.

The Appendix sets out certain forms for use at Scottish parliamentary elections.