Article 5

Rule 7 (decisions as to validity of nomination papers) is amended as follows.

At the beginning of paragraph (3) insert “Subject to paragraph (3A),”.

After paragraph (3) insert–

“(3A)

If in the returning officer’s opinion a nomination paper breaks rule 4A(1), he shall give a decision to that effect as soon as practicable after the last time for the delivery of nomination papers.”.

In paragraph (4) for “Where he” substitute “Where the returning officer”.