Candidates' process volunteers

Returning Officer

Without Returning Officers the Party would not be able to carry out open and fair selections, and the more we have the faster we will be able to get a full slate of candidates in place for the next General Election. In short the more we have the better.

What's the role?

Members wanting to become approved candidates must go into the Candidate Selection Process. All live selections will be published on the Lib Dem website on the Selection Adverts section. This is run by a Returning Officer who is appointed by the Regional Candidates Chair. Returning officers are volunteers who can claim travel and other expenses. A half day training course is required.

Key tasks

• support the Local Party through the selection process
• agreeing the selection advert wording and paperwork required
• receiving applications
• ensure fair and equal treatment for all applicants
• ensure that the selection rules are followed by all participants and their supporters
• ensure that all members who are eligible to vote can do so
• resolve applicant conflicts (informally as an arbitrator or by making binding rulings)
• run the hustings meeting

• announcing the winning candidate

  But a Returning Officer is not a police officer!

Returning officers are guided by, and supported by the Regional Candidates Chair.

What are the ideal qualities of a returning officer?

• Communication skills
• Organisational ability
• Interpersonal skills
• Attention to detail
• Integrity & Impartiality
• Assertiveness
• Good judgement
• Calmness under pressure

If you think you might be interested in tackling this important role, please contact the Candidates Office on candidates@libdems.org.uk or speak to your Regional Candidates' Chair - details can be found on this web page.

Electronic Ballot Administrator