Commentary on Sections Ballot papers Section 32 Evaluation of pilots under section 31
201.This section provides that the Electoral Commission must prepare a report containing an assessment of the operation of every pilot order after the elections specified in that order have taken place.
202.Subsection (1) provides that the Electoral Commission must provide a report on the operation of every pilot order made under section 31.
203.Subsection (2) specifies various items that must as a minimum be included in the report.
204.Subsection (3) specifies criteria that must be assessed by the Electoral Commission when determining whether the order assisted voters in making informed decisions at the elections.
205.Subsection (4) provides that the report must contain an assessment of whether in the Commission’s opinion the order had any effect on turnout.
206.Subsection (5) provides that the report must include an assessment of the procedures provided in the pilot order from the perspective of candidates, returning officers and the agents of both. The report must also include a statement on the incidence of malpractice and resources impact for the authority of the relevant pilot order.
207.Subsection (6) provides that the Electoral Commission must also apply such other criteria to the evaluation of the pilot schemes as are specified in the pilot order.
208.Subsection (7) places a duty on the local authority to provide any assistance reasonably required by the Commission for the preparation of the report.
209.Subsection (8) specifies that reasonable assistance may include making arrangements to obtain the views of electors on the effect of the pilot and reporting allegations of fraud to the Commission.
210.Subsection (9) provides that the Commission must report to the Secretary of State and the local authority within three months of the declaration of the election result.
211.Subsection (10) provides that the local authority must publish the report in their area.
212.Subsection (11) provides that the terms “pilot order” and “local authority” must be construed in accordance with section 31.