European Assembly Elections (Hansard, 29 March 1979)

§ 14. Mr. Dykes
asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department, if he has prepared any guidance to candidates in the European elections as to when they can commence formal campaigning under the European Assembly Elections Regulations 1979.

§ Mr. John
No, Sir.

§ Mr. Dykes
Would it not be helpful to give guidance, because in this case the election date is fixed and therefore there is confusion?

§ Mr. Maxwell-Hyslop
On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. Somebody appears to be taking photographs with a flashlight. Is that not out of order in the House?

§ Mr. Speaker
It is highly irregular for anyone to take pictures in the House. No doubt, if it is not on the Floor of the House, the matter will be attended to.

§ Mr. Dykes
Would not a guidance document be helpful, because candidates are confused about when they will be campaigning officially? Is the commencement date for the campaign 7 May?

§ Mr. John
The date will be 2 May when the formal step is first taken. There is no difference from a parliamentary election, in the sense that if a candidate spends money to promote his candidature he must be prepared to include that in his return of expenditure.