Commentary on Sections Part 1 Electoral Administration and Registration Chapter 1: Co-Ordination of Electoral Administration Section 20H – Board proceedings
26.Section 20H enables the Board to decide on its own procedure, including the minimum number of members who must be present to make decisions. Subsection (1) confirms that all members votes are equal to the other members, but the Chair (or their deputy in the Chair’s absence) will have the deciding vote in the event of a tie. Subsection (3) also confirms the validity of the Board’s proceedings or acts if there is a defect in the appointment of a Board member.
27.Subsection (4) enables the Chair or deputy Chair to invite other people to the Board’s meetings to provide advice or help with the work of the Board, provided all members agree. This may include, for example, representatives of the Electoral Commission, Association of Electoral Administrators, Electoral Service Managers, representatives of the UK and/or Welsh governments. This is to ensure the Board has sufficient flexibility to seek out the necessary expertise and assistance in the delivery of its functions. Any such attendees would not be part of the Board’s membership.