Scottish Parliament Elections 7th May 2026 (2) Pre Election Guidance
Responsible Officer:
Karen M Donnelly, Chief Solicitor & Monitoring Officer
Publication:
This Technical Note will be published on the Council’s website following circulation to Members. Its contents may be disclosed or shared outwith the Council.
Details
This is the second in a series of Technical Notes intended to update Members on developing arrangements for the Scottish Parliament Elections which are scheduled to take place on 7 May 2026.
Members will be aware that the Scottish Parliament elections are due to take place on 7 May. There are a series of deadlines and other key dates which precede this date and these will be shared in due course.
As previously advised, the Council will recognise the Pre-Election Period commencing on 16 March 2026. This is despite the fact that the Scottish Government and Scottish Parliament are working to a pre-election period commencing on 26 March, followed by dissolution of the Parliament on 9 April 2026
The Chief Executive, acting as Constituency Returning Officer (CRO), has determined that for East Dunbartonshire, the pre-election period will commence on 16 March, reflecting the first date on which the Notice of Election may be published. Given that the Scottish Parliament elections are national, it is appropriate in all of the circumstances for the pre-election period to commence on that date.
Members will be aware that whilst this is not a local government election, it is nevertheless a sensitive time and it’s important that the Council and its Officers and Members are mindful of the legal requirement not to use resources for the promotion of a political party or political cause. This legal obligation applies at all times, but there are increased sensitivities and perceptions in the lead up to any election.
Recognising this, the Council’s Pre-Election Guidance has been updated and circulated to officers. A copy is attached to this Technical Note.
It is important to note that the Pre-Election Guidance applies to all officers, agency workers, contractors whilst on Council premises and Members and sets out the “dos and don’ts” in place for the duration of the Pre-Election Period.
A copy of the Pre-Election Guidance will also be issued to all prospective candidates as part of the nomination pack.
If Members have any questions regarding the Pre-Election Guidance or its interpretation, please contact the Chief Solicitor & Monitoring Officer in the first instance.
