Explanatory note

The National Assembly for Wales (“the Assembly”) is established by the Government of Wales Act 1998 and this Order makes provision as to the conduct of elections and return of members to the Assembly. The Order makes other related provision e.g. with respect to the questioning of Assembly elections.

Part I of the Order makes general provision relating to the Order.

Part II of the Order makes provision in connection with the Assembly franchise and its exercise.

Part III of the Order makes provision in connection with election campaigns at Assembly elections.

Part IV of the Order makes provision in connection with legal proceedings and, in particular, election petitions.

Part V of the Order makes miscellaneous and supplemental provision in connection with Assembly elections.

Schedule 1 to the Order makes provision in connection with electors list and registers.

Schedule 2 to the Order makes provision in connection with absent voting at Assembly elections.

Schedule 3 to the Order makes provision in connection with the issue and receipt of postal ballot papers at Assembly elections.

Schedule 4 to the Order makes provision in connection with the combination of polls at Assembly and local government elections.

Schedule 5 to the Order makes provision in connection with the conduct of Assembly elections and the return of Assembly members.

Schedule 6 to the Order sets out forms relating to returns and declarations as to election expenses in respect of Assembly elections.

Schedule 7 to the Order makes provision in connection with the use for Assembly election meetings of rooms in school premises and of meeting rooms.

Schedule 8 makes provision to modify the Election Petition Rules 1960 in connection with their application in relation to Assembly election petitions.