Commentary on Sections Ballot papers Section 31 Replacement of counterfoils
190.This section amends the parliamentary elections rules. Ballot papers will no longer be attached by a perforation to counterfoils. Instead, electoral officials will be provided with a corresponding number list (new rule 19A) of all the numbered ballot papers. The official must insert the electoral register number of the voter to whom a ballot paper is issued (amended rule 37(1)(b) and (d) to which paragraph 71 of Schedule 1 refers). On being given a ballot paper, voters will be required to sign on the corresponding number list beside their electoral register number and ballot paper number. At the close of the poll, the corresponding number list is added to the other lists that must be forwarded to the count (amendments to rule 43). After the announcement of the result, the corresponding number list is forwarded for safe keeping in case it needs to be produced in legal proceedings (amendments to rules 55 to 57).