# The Local Elections (Communities) (Wales) Rules 2021, Rule 15: Names that are the same or similar

Extent: E+W

(1) This rule applies where, in preparing a statement of persons nominated, the returning officer decides that—
(a) two or more of the names that would be shown on the statement are the same or so similar as to be likely to cause confusion,
(b) each of the persons concerned has made a statement that they require their home address not to be made public (see rule 9(6)), and
(c) the information given in accordance with rule 9(7) is the same for each of them.
(2) The returning officer may arrange for any of their particulars to be shown on the statement of persons nominated with such amendments or additions as the returning officer thinks appropriate to reduce the likelihood of confusion.
(3) In deciding whether to make amendments or additions under this rule, the returning officer must have regard to any guidance given by the Electoral Commission for the purposes of this rule.
(4) Where it is practicable to do so before the publication of the statement, the returning officer must consult any persons whose particulars are to be amended or added to under this rule.
(5) The returning officer must give a notice to any person whose particulars are amended or added to under this rule, setting out the amendments or additions.
(6) Anything done by a returning officer under this rule may not be questioned in any proceedings other than proceedings on an election petition.

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Source: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/wsi/2021/1460/schedule/2/rule/15 (the official version)
Page: https://openlegislation.uk/local-elections-communities-wales-rules-2021/schedule-2/rule-15
Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Source: legislation.gov.uk, The National Archives.