GLRO 21-09 GLRO Directions to Constituency Returning Officers

1.1. The proposed Directions are attached at Appendix 1. They were discussed and agreed in advance with the Electoral Commission, legal advisers, Constituency Returning Officers (CROs), Borough Returning Officers (BROs) and Electoral Services Managers (ESMs).

1.2. The purpose of the Directions is to ensure that the delivery of the Mayor of London and London Assembly elections complies with the law and Electoral Commission guidance and performance standards; and to ensure a consistency of experience for voters, candidates and agents.

1.3. The Directions thus provide the GLRO with confidence that CROs are working to an agreed consistent standard and reduce the risk of a challenge to the conduct of the election.

1.4. The Directions are similar to those developed for 2020, prior to the 2020 election’s postponement. They also now include a Direction relating to the COVID-19 pandemic.

2.1. All key stakeholders have been consulted and agreement reached that the Directions, allow each CRO to discharge their functions in accordance with relevant legislation.

4.1. There are no equality considerations arising from this decision.

3.1. There are no financial considerations arising from this decision

5.1. The directions are consistent with the GLRO’s functions as detailed in the Greater London Authority
Election Rules 2007. Under Rule 11 the GLRO may give to any CRO a direction—
(a) as to the manner in which s/he must discharge any of his functions set out in these Rules;
or
(b) requiring him/her to provide the GLRO with any information which the CRO has or is
entitled to have in accordance with these rules

5.2 It is the duty of each CRO to whom a direction is given under paragraph (1) to discharge his/her
functions in accordance with that direction.