Paragraph 64M Return of councillorsF1

Where, at any stage of the count, the number of votes for a candidate equals or exceeds the quota, the candidate is treated as elected.

For the purpose of determining whether the number of first preference votes for any candidate equals or exceeds the quota, the candidate is to be credited with one vote for each ballot paper on which a first preference vote is given for the candidate.

Rules 64N, 64O, 64S and 64T make provision about the number of votes to be credited to a candidate where a ballot paper on which a second or subsequent preference for the candidate is transferred to the candidate in accordance with those rules.

A candidate who is treated as elected is returned as a councillor when the returning officer declares the candidate to be elected in accordance with rule 64Z1.

For the meaning of “quota”, see rule 64J.