I am currently undertaking a comprehensive review of the Electoral Act 1997. Since its enactment, the 1997 Act has been amended on a number of occasions. In addition, the Act's provisions have now been used at all elections covered by the Act, including the general election in May 2002. It is, therefore, opportune to review its provisions following experience gained at the various elections.
I have also asked the Standards in Public Office Commission for a report on the commission's views on the operation of the Act's provisions at the general election.
I envisage completing my review within a relatively short timescale.