Parliamentary elections are the foundation of the democratic State, providing legitimacy to government and an opportunity for citizens to participate in the democratic process. But despite the crucial role of elections in government and society, the law governing them is fragmented, both conceptually and in terms of the legal framework. This book examines each stage of the electoral process from the perspective of the candidate seeking to become an MP: eligibility and qualification, the candidate selection process, nominations, disputed elections and then, lastly, disqualification or exit from the House of Commons. Each stage of the process is considered in light of developments in political practice and human rights jurisprudence, and an argument is made for the rethinking and reform of the law of parliamentary candidacy and membership. The book takes into account the reforms ushered in by the parliamentary expenses scandal of 2009, and also looks to the new electoral era that may eventuate under the Liberal Democrat-Conservative Coalition Government.

Constitutional & Administrative Law.

The book takes into account the reforms ushered in by the UK's parliamentary expenses scandal of 2009, and it also looks to the new electoral era that may eventuate under the Liberal Democrat Conservative coalition government the referendum on the alternative vote electoral system, the prospect of recall elections for errant MPs, and the opening up of the candidate selection process. The book will be of interest to those dealing with constitutional and administrative law, as well as those interested in politics more generally.

The European Commission for Democracy through Law, or Venice Commission, is the Council of Europe's advisory body on constitutional matters. It gives legal opinions on the development and operation of democratic institutions and constitutional law. The Venice Commission's work is aimed at upholding the three underlying principles of Europe's constitutional heritage: democracy, human rights and the rule of law. Since its inception, the Venice Commission has been particularly active in the field of elections, the cornerstone of democracy. This book is a compilation of the main Venice Commission texts dealing in general terms with elections and referendums. First come the reference documents: the Code of Good Practice in Electoral Matters and the Code of Good Practice on Referendums. These are followed by a judicious selection of general studies on such fundamental topics as recurrent challenges and problematic issues in electoral law in Europe, election systems, the representation of national minorities on elected bodies - through the application of general rules and specific measures - and a comparison of the legal rules on referendums in European states. This book is intended not only for election specialists (members of electoral commissions, academics etc) but also for observers, politicians and, more generally, any member of the electorate.