General election results 1 May 1997

Documents to download

General election results 1 May 1997. House of Commons Library Research Paper 01/38. (Reissue of 97/49)

Pre-election period of sensitivity

Restrictions on the use of public resources are in place during the pre-election period before elections and referendums. The Cabinet Office issues guidance for civil servants on their conduct during this period.
Overseas voters

British citizens living overseas are currently entitled to be registered to vote in UK Parliamentary elections for up to 15 years in the constituency they were registered in before leaving the UK. The Government has committed to end the 15-year limit and introduce 'votes for life'. This Briefing Paper provides details of the provisions relating to overseas voters in the Representation of the People Act 1985 and the proposals for change. It also summarises earlier attempts to change the 15 year rule.
Televised debates between party leaders

This note sets out the background to the debate about televised debates between party leaders during a general election campaign.