Paragraph 60J Transfers where first preference votes exceed the quotaF1
This rule applies where the number of first preference votes for a candidate exceeds the quota.
The returning officer must sort all the ballot papers on which first preference votes are given for the candidate so that they are grouped—
according to the continuing candidate for whom the next available preference is given on those papers, or
where no next available preference is given, as a separate group.
The ballot papers in the groups formed under paragraph (a) (“transferable papers”) are to be transferred in accordance with paragraphs (4) and (5) of this rule. The ballot papers in the group formed under paragraph (b) (“non-transferable papers”) are not to be transferred.
The returning officer must count the number of ballot papers in each group of transferable papers and in the group of non-transferable papers.
The returning officer must then transfer each group of transferable papers to the continuing candidate for whom the next available preference is given on those papers.
The vote on each transferable paper is transferred at a value (“the transfer value”) which is calculated by taking the following steps.
Step 1
Take the surplus of the candidate from whom ballot papers are being transferred.
Step 2
Divide the surplus by the total number of ballot papers being transferred. Make the calculation to two decimal places and ignore the remainder. This is the transfer value.
For the meaning of “continuing candidate”, “next available preference”, “quota” and “surplus”, see rule 60F.
See also—
rule 60L (which sets out circumstances in which votes are not to be transferred under this rule);
rule 60M (which sets out the order in which surpluses are to be transferred where two or more candidates have surpluses);
rule 60N (which makes supplementary provision).
Annotations
Textual amendments
- F1
Sch. 1 Pt. 4A inserted (9.10.2023) by The Local Elections (Principal Areas) (Single Transferable Vote) (Wales) Rules 2023 (S.I. 2023/1064), rules 1(2), 4(2)