Written question asked by Lord Wigley (Plaid Cymru) on Monday, 12 January 1998, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 15 January 1998. It was answered by Henry McLeish (Labour) on Thursday, 15 January 1998 on behalf of the Scottish Office.

Scottish Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, if he will list those unitary authorities in Scotland which, during the course of the referendum count on 11th September changed the basis of interpretation as to whether a ballot paper was to be accepted as valid, or to be declared spoilt; and how many of these changed their interpretation on the specific advice of his Department.

Answer: Mr. Wigley: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will list those unitary authorities in Scotland which, during the course of the referendum count on 11 September changed the basis of interpretation as to whether a ballot paper was to be accepted as valid, or to be declared spoilt; and how many of these changed their interpretation on the specific advice of his Department. [23274] Mr. McLeish: I am not aware that any area changed the basis of its interpretation of the adjudication of ballot papers or changed its interpretation of the guidance issued by the Chief Counting Office for Scotland.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 304 c302W;304 c298W; 23274
Session: 1997-98
Subjects: Administration Devolution Elections Referendums Scotland Ballot papers