Labour Party Rule Book 2008

The Labour Party
Rule Book 2008

Labour Party Rule Book 2008
Contents
SECTION A.....................................................................................................................................5
SUMMARY OF NEC RULE AMENDMENTS ..................................................................................5
SECTION B.................................................................................................................................. 10
THE NATIONAL RULES OF THE LABOUR PARTY................................................................... 10

Chapter 1 Constitutional rules .................................................................................................................................. 11
Clause I. Name and objects 11
Clause II. Party structure and affiliated organisations 11
Clause III. The party’s financial scheme 12
Clause IV. Aims and values 12
Clause V. Party programme 13
Clause VI. Labour Party Conference 13
Clause VII. Party officers and statutory officers 13
Clause VIII. The National Executive Committee 14
Clause IX. The National Constitutional Committee 16
Clause X. Scope of rules 16
Chapter 2 Membership rules...................................................................................................................................... 18
A. Conditions of membership 18
B. Membership procedures 19
C. Membership subscriptions 19
Chapter 3 Party Conference ...................................................................................................................................... 21

A. Delegations 21
B. Conference Arrangements Committee 22
C. Procedural rules for Party Conference 22
Chapter 4 Elections of national officers of the party and national committees ............................................ 24
A. General principles 24
B. Procedural rules for elections for national officers of the party 24
C. Procedural rules for elections for national committees 26
Chapter 5 Selections for elected public office....................................................................................................... 29
A. General rules for selections for public office 29
B. Selection of local government candidates 29
C. Selection of Westminster parliamentary candidates 30
D. Selection of European parliamentary candidates 31
E. Selection of candidates for devolved institutions 32
Chapter 6 Disciplinary rules....................................................................................................................................... 33
A. National action by the party 33
B. Action by CLPs 33
SECTION C .................................................................................................................................. 35
RULES FOR UNITS OF PARTY ORGANISATION...................................................................... 35

Chapter 7 Rules for CLPs............................................................................................................................................ 36
Clause I. Name 36
Clause II. Aims and values 36
Clause III. Affiliated organisations 36
Clause IV. Affiliation fees 36
Clause V. Individual membership 36
Clause VI. Method of organisation 37
Clause VII. Management 37
Clause VIII. Conditions for appointment of delegates to this CLP 38
Clause IX. Officers 39
Clause X. Meetings of the General Committee 39
Clause XI. The Party Conference 40
Page 1 of 100
Clause XII. Duties of the General Committee 40

Clause XIII. Disciplinary 40
Clause XIV. Parliamentary candidates 40
Clause XV. Local government candidates 40
Clause XVI. Amendment to rules 41
Chapter 7a Amendments to CLP rules where constituency and district/ county borough boundaries are
coterminous .................................................................................................................................................................. 42
Clause I Aims and values 42
Clause VII Management 42
Clause IX Officers 42
Clause XII Duties of the General Committee 42
Chapter 8 Rules for branches.................................................................................................................................... 43
Clause I. Name 43
Clause II. Objects 43
Clause III. Membership 43
Clause IV. Officers and Executive Committee 43
Clause V. Meetings 43
Clause VI. Local government candidates 43
Clause VII. Miscellaneous 43
Chapter 9 Rules for Regional Boards and European party units ....................................................................... 45
Chapter 10 Rules for women’s forums.................................................................................................................... 46
Clause I. Name 46
Clause IV. Management 46
Clause VI. Activities 46
Clause VII. Finances 47
Clause VIII. General 47
Clause IX. Alteration to rules 47
Chapter 11 Rules for Young Labour......................................................................................................................... 48

Clause I. Name 48
Clause IV. Structure 48
Clause V. Regional Committees 48
Chapter 11A Young Labour groups ......................................................................................................................... 49

Clause I. Name 49
Clause IV. Establishing a group 49
Clause V. Geographical boundaries 49
Clause VI. Meetings 49
Clause VII. Officers 49
Clause VIII. Finance 49
Clause IX. Relationship with constituency parties 50
Clause X. General relations 50
Clause XI. Dissolution 50
11B Young Labour National Committee................................................................................................................. 51

Clause I. Aims and values 51
Clause II. Membership 51
Clause III. Executive 51
Clause IV. Meetings 51
Clause V. Finance 51
Clause VI. Conference 51
Chapter 12 Rules for Labour Party local government committees ................................................................... 52

Clause I. Name 52
Clause II. Objects 52
Clause III. Management 52
Clause IV. Officers and Executive Committee 53
Clause VI. Finance 53
Page 2 of 100
Clause VII. General 53

Clause VIII. Candidates 53
Clause IX. Relations with the Labour group 53
Clause X. Miscellaneous 53
Chapter 13 Rules for local government Labour groups on principal authorities ........................................... 55
Clause I. General rules and provisions for Labour groups on local authorities 55
Clause II. Aims and Values 55
Clause III. Membership of the group 56
Clause IV. Group meetings 57
Clause V. Group officers 57
Clause VI. Group executive 57
Clause VII. Casual vacancies 57
Clause VIII. Determination of group policy and action 57
Clause IX. Selection of nominations for civic offices, council leadership and other council appointments 58
Clause X. Arrangements with other parties 58
Clause XI. Action by individual members 58
Clause XII. Groups on committees 58
Clause XIII. Breach of rule 58
Clause XIV. Reporting to and consulting with the party 59
Clause XV. Group standing orders 59
Clause XVI. Compliance with PPERA 59
Clause XVII. Miscellaneous 59
Chapter 14 Rules for Ethnic Minorities Forums..................................................................................................... 61
Clause I. Name 61
Clause IV. Management 61
Clause VI. Activities 61
Clause VII. Finances 62
Clause VIII. General 62
Clause IX. Alteration to rules 62
SECTION D.................................................................................................................................. 63
PROCEDURAL RULES................................................................................................................ 63
Chapter 15 Model procedural rules .......................................................................................................................... 64
A. Model Standing Orders for Party Units 64
B. Annual General Meetings 64
C. Ordinary meetings 64
D. Meeting times 64
E. Quorum 64
F. Entitlement to attend 64
G. Chair 64
H. Party business 65
I. Notice of motion 65
J. Discussion of motion 65
K. Procedural motions 65
L. Motion to rescind resolution 65
M. Voting on motions 65
N. Ballot votes 65
O. Chair’s ruling 66
P. Miscellaneous 66
SECTION E .................................................................................................................................. 67
CONTACTS AND GLOSSARY ..................................................................................................... 67

Chapter 16 Party contacts and glossary................................................................................................................. 68
SECTION F .................................................................................................................................. 70
APPENDICES.............................................................................................................................. 70
Page 3 of 100
Chapter 17 Appendix I NEC statement on the importance of our members .................................................. 71

Chapter 18 Appendix II NEC procedural guidelines on membership recruitment and retention ............... 72
A. General 72
B. Enrolment procedures 72
C. Move of residence 73
D. Method of Payment 73
E. Membership year 73
F. Arrears and lapsed members 73
G. Procedural code for CLPs 74
H. Follow-up procedures by CLPs 74
I. Access to membership lists 74
Chapter 19 Appendix III NEC procedural rules on selection of Parliamentary Candidates ......................... 76
A. Introduction 76
B. General 76
C. Freeze dates 77
D. National panel 77
E. Trigger ballots for MPs through nominations by party units and affiliates 78
F. Candidates 79
G. Delegates 80
H. Membership 80
I. Statement of candidates’ qualities 80
J. Constituency Timetable – open selections 80
K. Nominations 82
L. Shortlisting 82
M. Members’ ballot 83
N. Postal vote 84
O. Voting procedure and count 84
P. Financial agreement and endorsement 84
Q. NEC Timescale for selections 85
R. Parliamentary Selections - Candidates’ code of conduct 85
Chapter 20 Appendix IV NEC Procedural Rules for the selection of local government Candidates for
elections in 2008 ......................................................................................................................................................... 87
A. Selection timetable 87
B. Positive action procedures 87
C. Panel of approved candidates 88
D. Qualification of nominees 88
E. Endorsement of applicants to the panel of approved candidates 88
F. Authority to vary assessment procedures 89
G. Withdrawal of endorsement from a member of the approved panel 89
H. Rights and responsibilities of members of the approved panel of candidates 89
I. Shortlisting and selection 89
Chapter 21 Appendix V NEC Advice Note – Interviewing sitting councillors or recent candidates ........... 93
Chapter 22 Appendix VI Procedural guidelines in disciplinary cases brought before the NCC .................. 95
A. Timetable for dealing with cases 95
Page 4 of 100
Section A
Summary of NEC rule

amendments
Page 5 of 100
EXTENDING AND RENEWING PARTY DEMOCRACY

The following NEC rule amendments were passed at the 2007 Annual Conference and are implemented from 1 January
2008. The proposals were outlined in the document Extending and Renewing Party Democracy.
Chapter 1 - Constitutional rules
Clause Title Rule change Explanation
New Clause Party “At all levels the party will ensure that A duty to consult is
V.1 (and programme members, elected representatives, established within rule.
renumber) affiliated organisations and, where
practicable, the wider community are
able to participate in the process of
policy consideration and formulation.”
Clause V.1 Party Delete and substitute: Recognises the role of the
programme “Party Conference shall decide from National Policy Forum, under
time to time what specific proposals of the Joint Policy Committee’s
legislative, financial or administrative direction, in the party policy
reform shall be included in the party programme, and makes
programme. This shall be based on the provision for an OMOV ballot
rolling programme of work of the on the programme.
National Policy Forum and shall be
subject to approval by an OMOV ballot
of the eligible membership once in
each Parliament. No proposal shall be
included in the final party programme
unless it has been adopted by the
conference by a majority of not less
than two-thirds of the votes recorded
on a card vote.”
Clause V.2 Party Delete “two vice-chairs” and substitute Updates the rules to reflect
programme “three vice-chairs” the fact that there are now
three Vice-Chairs of the NPF.
Clause VIII.3.I The Delete and substitute: Revises the NEC’s role to
National “to establish a Joint Policy Committee make provision for the OMOV
Executive to oversee the National Policy Forum ballot on the party
Committee and the Policy Commissions in programme.
producing a rolling programme for
submission to party conference and
which will be subject to an OMOV
ballot of the eligible membership once
in each Parliament. The NEC shall also
produce guidelines for the
establishment and operation of local
policy forums.”
Page 6 of 100
Chapter 3 – Party conference
3.C.2.C Agenda Delete from “motion” to “reports” and Provides for the revised
substitute: process of contemporary
“contemporary issue which is not issues.
substantially addressed by reports of the
NEC or NPF to Conference.”
Delete “motions” in line 5 and substitute:
“issues”
Delete final sentence and substitute:
“Issues must be in writing, on one subject
only and in ten words or less and may be
supported by an explanation of why the
issue should be prioritised. Alternatively,
a constitutional amendment on one
subject only may be submitted in writing.
Contemporary issues and constitutional
amendments must be received by the
General Secretary at the offices of the
party by the closing date determined by
the NEC.”
3.C.2.F Agenda Delete “motions on” in line 1 Updates rules to reflect the
new contemporary issues
process.
3.C.2.G Agenda Delete “motions on contemporary or Revises rules to reflect

emergency issues submitted and changes to the policy process
accepted” in line 6 and replace with: and the introduction of the
“contemporary issues or emergency new contemporary issues
resolutions submitted and accepted process.
Chapter 4 – Elections of national officers of the Party and national committees
New Election of Additionally the four officers of the Welsh Provides for the officers of the
4.C.1.D.ii National Policy Forum and the four officers of the Scottish and Welsh Policy
(and Policy Scottish Policy Forum shall be members Forums to be members of the
renumber Forum of the National Policy Forum. National Policy Forum.
remaining)
Page 7 of 100
Chapter 7 - Rules for CLPs
II.2.D Aims and Delete and replace with “To provide the Confirms the current
Values opportunity for all individual members requirement for party
of the party within the constituency to members to be involved in
contribute to the development of the policy discussion and
aims and policies by ensuring that a full formulation, and adds the
range of party activities are available to requirement to invite
them, including local policy forums, and members to local policy
that they may participate fully in forums. Consequential
discussion to broaden the political amendment to allow for new
education of members of the party and paragraph E.
to increase their influence over the
formulation of the party programme.”
New II.2.E Aims and “To establish local policy forums, Introduces new duty on local
Values possibly in co-operation with parties in respect of
neighbouring CLPs, as authorised by and consulting their members and
with the support of the appropriate communities on
regional director operating to guidelines policymaking.
produced by the NEC. The constitution
of the party places an obligation on
CLPs to work in pursuit of our aims with
trade unions, co-operative societies and
other affiliated organisations, and it
must consult its members, elected
representatives, affiliated
organisations, and, where practicable,
the wider community in which it is
based on policy making initiatives which
are to be forwarded to the National
Policy Forum for inclusion in the party
programme.”
VI.1.E Method of Add at end: Supports CLPs which wish to

organisation “The NEC encourages requests by a CLP move to all-member
for all member meetings as its method meetings.
of organisation.”
The following NEC rule amendments were passed at the 2007 Annual Conference and are implemented from 1 January
2008.
Chapter 3 – Party Conference
Chapter 3 Delegations add a new paragraph at end: This rule change gives effect
A.1.D “xiv. members of the Executive to the NEC’s decision in July
Committee of the Black Socialist to permit members of the
Society” Executive of the Black
Socialist Society to attend
Annual Conference in an ex-
Page 8 of 100
officio capacity, on the same

basis as other ex-officio
members as set out in Rule
3A.1.D Black and ethnic
minority members are
currently under-represented
at Annual Conference. This
rule change is a first step to
encouraging more BAME
members to attend and
participate.
Chapter 7 – Rules for CLPs
Chapter 7 Officers The officers of this CLP shall be; chair, This rule change gives effect
Clause IX.2 vice-chair, vice-chair/membership, to the NEC’s decision to
secretary, treasurer, women’s officer, change the Constituency
youth/student officer and ethnic Labour Party Ethnic Minority
minorities officer. The women’s officer Officer from a functional role,
and at least three more of the other into a full officer.
full officers of this CLP shall be Black and ethnic minority
women. members are under-
(The ethnic minorities officer is added represented at all levels of
as an officer of the CLP) the Party. This is an
important change which will
give the opportunity for
BAME members to be
represented amongst the
officers of every CLP.
This rule will increase the
number of constituency
officers from 7 to 8 and will
require at least four of the
constituency officers to be
women rather than the
current three in order to
maintain gender balance.
Chapter 7 Functional In addition there may be appointed As above

Clause IX.3 Officers functional officers, including a
campaign co-ordinator, a political
education and training officer, an
information technology officer, a
disability officer, a trade union liaison
officer and a fundraising officer who
may attend meetings of the Executive
Committee without voting power. The
agent for the parliamentary candidate
may also attend Executive Committee
meetings without voting power.
(The ethnic minorities officer is
deleted as a functional officer of the
CLP)
Page 9 of 100
Section B
The national rules of

the Labour Party
Page 10 of 100
local Young Labour groups throughout
Chapter 1 England, Scotland and Wales

H. Student members of the party shall be
organised nationally as Labour Students A
Constitutional rules National Trade Union and Labour Party Liaison
Organisation shall be established to involve
affiliated unions in party organisation, which
shall include a National Trade Union and
Labour Party Liaison Committee and Regional
Liaison Committees in Scotland, Wales and
Clause I. each of the English regions
Name and objects I. Labour Party Properties Limited and Labour
Party Nominees Limited shall be maintained
1. This organisation shall be known as ‘The Labour
as companies holding party assets, either
Party’ (hereinafter referred to as ‘the party’). Its
outright or on trust for the benefit of the
purpose is to organise and maintain in Parliament
party.
and in the country a political Labour Party.
3. Organisations may, subject to the decision of the
2. The party shall give effect, as far as may be
NEC, which shall be final and binding, affiliate to
practicable, to the principles from time to time
the party if they fall within the following
approved by party conference.
categories:
Clause II. A. trade unions affiliated to the Trades Union
Party structure and affiliated organisations Congress or are considered by the NEC to be
1. There shall be a National Executive Committee of bona fide trade unions
the party (the ‘NEC’) which shall, subject to the B. co-operative societies
control and directions of party conference, be the C. socialist societies
administrative authority of the party.
D. other organisations which, in the opinion of
2. The party shall be organised on the following the NEC, have interests consistent with those
basis: of the Labour Party.
A. Where the NEC so determines there shall be 4. Each affiliated organisation must:
established in any Westminster parliamentary
A. accept the programme, policy and principles of
constituency a unit of the party, to be known
the party
as a ‘constituency labour party’ or ‘CLP’
B. agree to conform to the constitution and
B. Within each CLP, members shall be organised
standing orders of the party
in branches, the number and area covered by
such branches to be agreed by the CLP and C. submit its political rules to the NEC.
the NEC 5. Other
C. A women’s forum may be established in each A. Political organisations not affiliated or
CLP, consisting of all individual women associated under a national agreement with
members within that CLP. An ethnic minorities the party, having their own programme,
forum may be established consisting of all principles and policy for distinctive and
individual Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic (BAME) separate propaganda, or possessing branches
individual members within that CLP. in the constituencies, or engaged in the
D. In Scotland, Wales and each of the English promotion of parliamentary or local
regions there shall be established: a Scottish government candidates, or having allegiance
Labour, Wales Labour or regional party office; to any political organisation situated abroad,
a Scottish executive, Welsh executive or shall be ineligible for affiliation to the party.
regional board; and a European constituency B. The panel of the NEC responsible for
labour party. There may also be established a assessing applications from socialist societies
Scottish, Welsh or regional women’s to affiliate to the party shall have regard to
committee and a regional BAME members’ procedural guidelines determined by the NEC,
section. which are available from the Compliance Unit.
E. Subject to the approval of the appropriate NEC 6. Affiliations Fees
representative, local government committees A. Trade Unions
may be established within areas of directly
elected local government above that of i. Each affiliated trade union shall pay an
parish/community council affiliation fee per member of £3.00.
F. Members on local authorities shall be ii. After consultation with affiliated
organised locally in Labour groups and organisations, the NEC will determine
nationally in the Association of Labour affiliation fees as and when necessary
Councillors for Annual Conference to approve.
G. All individual members of the party aged iii. Of that affiliation fee, a proportion shall
between 15 and 26 years inclusive shall be be allocated to the party’s national
members of Young Labour and may establish
Chapter 1
Constitutional rules Page 11 of 100
election fund as provided by clause I. such other party units as shall from time to
VIII.3(k) of these rules. time be agreed by the NEC to be eligible for
iv. Affiliation fees shall be payable on a registration.
quarterly basis on the first days of 3. All accounting units will comply with their legal
January, April, July and October each year obligations to provide the national party with all
and must have been paid in full not later relevant information as requested. Failure to
than 31 December of the relevant year. supply such information may lead to the NEC
B. Socialist Societies taking disciplinary action against individual
members, the suspension of the appropriate party
i. Each affiliated socialist society or other
unit or both
organisation shall pay an affiliation fee
per member of £1.25. Clause IV.
ii. Of that affiliation fee, 10p shall be Aims and values
allocated to the party’s national election 1. The Labour Party is a democratic socialist party. It
fund as provided by clause VIII.3(k) of believes that by the strength of our common
these rules. endeavour we achieve more than we achieve
iii. All affiliation fees shall be paid not later alone, so as to create for each of us the means to
than 31 December of the relevant year. realise our true potential and for all of us a
C. Affiliation fees and the allocation thereof may community in which power, wealth and
be varied by party conference and sub-clauses opportunity are in the hands of the many not the
6.A.i to 6.B.iii above modified accordingly. few; where the rights we enjoy reflect the duties
we owe and where we live together freely, in a
7. Membership fees and insurance
spirit of solidarity, tolerance and respect.
A. Membership fees for each individual member
2. To these ends we work for:
shall be collected by, or on behalf of, the
party’s head office and shall be divided A. A DYNAMIC ECONOMY, serving the public
between head office, the relevant regional interest, in which the enterprise of the market
office, or Scottish/ Welsh office as the case and the rigour of competition are joined with
may be, and the relevant CLP, as laid down in the forces of partnership and co-operation to
the membership rules (Chapter 2 C.2 below). produce the wealth the nation needs and the
opportunity for all to work and prosper with a
B. The NEC shall arrange on behalf of all CLPs an
thriving private sector and high-quality public
insurance scheme to cover a by-election
services where those undertakings essential
premium, public liability, and such other legal
to the common good are either owned by the
risks as the NEC considers appropriate. The
public or accountable to them
estimated cost of such insurance for the
following year shall be advised to the annual B. A JUST SOCIETY, which judges its strength by
session of party conference and each CLP the condition of the weak as much as the
shall be notified of its share of the cost which strong, provides security against fear, and
must be paid by 15 April of the following year; justice at work; which nurtures families,
wherever possible this shall be deducted from promotes equality of opportunity, and delivers
a CLP’s share of membership subscriptions people from the tyranny of poverty, prejudice
during the first quarter of each year. and the abuse of power
C. AN OPEN DEMOCRACY, in which government
Clause III. is held to account by the people, decisions are
The party’s financial scheme taken as far as practicable by the communities
1. The party shall maintain a financial scheme they affect and where fundamental human
approved by the Electoral Commission and shall rights are guaranteed
consist of a central organisation with accounting D. A HEALTHY ENVIRONMENT, which we protect,
units enhance and hold in trust for future
2. The following may, subject to the approval of the generations.
NEC, be registered as accounting units under the 3. Labour is committed to the defence and security
party’s financial scheme: of the British people and to co-operating in
A. CLPs European institutions, the United Nations, the
B. the Scottish Labour Party Commonwealth and other international bodies to
secure peace, freedom, democracy, economic
C. Wales Labour security and environmental protection for all.
D. Labour Students 4. Labour shall work in pursuit of these aims with
E. the Association of Labour Councillors (‘ALC’) trade unions and co-operative societies and also
F. the Trade Union and Labour Party Liaison with voluntary organisations, consumer groups
Committee and the National and Regional and other representative bodies.
Trade Union Liaison Committees 5. On the basis of these principles, Labour seeks the
G. the Parliamentary Labour Party (‘PLP’) trust of the people to govern.
H. local government committees (‘LGCs’)
Chapter 1
Clause V. referred to as ‘party conference’ and these rules

Party programme (except where the context otherwise requires)
shall apply thereto.
1. At all levels the party will ensure that members,
elected representatives, affiliated organisations Clause VII.
and, where practicable, the wider community are Party officers and statutory officers
able to participate in the process of policy
1. Party officers
consideration and formulation.
A. Leader and deputy leader
2. Party Conference shall decide from time to time
what specific proposals of legislative, financial or i. There shall be a leader and deputy leader
administrative reform shall be included in the of the party who shall, ex-officio, be
party programme. This shall be based on the leader and deputy leader of the PLP.
rolling programme of work of the National Policy ii. The leader and deputy leader of the
Forum and shall be subject to approval by an party shall be elected or re-elected from
OMOV ballot of the eligible membership once in among Commons members of the PLP in
each Parliament. No proposal shall be included in accordance with procedural rule Chapter
the final party programme unless it has been 4 B.2 below, at a party conference
adopted by the conference by a majority of not convened in accordance with clause VI of
less than two-thirds of the votes recorded on a these rules. In respect to the election of
card vote. the leader and deputy leader, the
3. When in Government the NEC, the seven standing orders of the PLP shall always
backbench members of the Parliamentary automatically be brought into line with
Committee of the Parliamentary Labour Party these rules.
(‘PLP’) plus the Chair of the PLP, the Cabinet, the B. Chair and vice-chair
Chair and three vice Chairs of the NPF, two CLP i. There shall be a chair and vice-chair of
members of the NPF to be elected by CLP the party elected by the NEC from among
delegates to the NPF, and eight Trade Union its own members in accordance with the
members of the TULO Contact Group, shall decide provisions set out in procedural rule
which items from the party programme shall be Chapter 4 B.3 below.
included in the manifesto which shall be issued by
the NEC prior to every general election. The joint C. General Secretary
meeting shall also define the attitude of the party i. There shall be a General Secretary of the
to the principal issues raised by the election party who shall be appointed in
which are not covered by the manifesto. accordance with the provisions set out in
procedural rule Chapter 4 B.4 below. The
When not in Government the NEC, the General Secretary shall act as secretary
Parliamentary Committee of the Parliamentary to the NEC.
Labour Party (‘PLP’) and the Chair and three vice ii. For the avoidance of doubt, wherever in
Chairs of the NPF shall decide which items from this rule book or upon instruction or
the party programme shall be included in the delegation by the NEC, or a committee or
manifesto which shall be issued by the NEC prior sub-committee thereof, the General
to every general election. The joint meeting shall Secretary has a function to discharge,
also define the attitude of the party to the she or he may delegate the discharge of
principal issues raised by the election which are such function to such appropriate officer
not covered by the manifesto. or designated representative of the party
4. The NEC shall decide which items from the as she or he shall see fit. Further, the
programme shall be included in the election General Secretary shall be deemed
manifesto for the European Parliament after always to have had the power so to
consultation with the European Parliamentary delegate.
Labour Party (‘EPLP’) and with sister parties in the D. Party Treasurer
Party of European Socialists.
i. There shall be a treasurer of the party
Clause VI. who shall be elected by party conference
Labour Party Conference at its regular annual meeting in
accordance with the provisions set out in
1. The work of the party shall be under the direction rule Chapter 4 B.5 below.
and control of party conference, which shall itself
be subject to the constitution and standing orders E. Auditors
of the party. Party conference shall meet i. Two conference delegates shall be
regularly once in every year and also at such elected in accordance with rule Chapter 4
other times as it may be convened by the NEC. B.6 below to act as auditors of the party
2. The rules for the convening and operation of accounts to be submitted to the annual
party conference are contained in chapter 3 of session of party conference in the year
these rules which may be amended by decision of following that in which they were
the NEC, subject to ratification by party elected.
conference. Party conference and special 2. Statutory officers
sessions of party conference in these rules are
Chapter 1
A. In order to comply with statutory and local government to secure the party’s
requirements: objectives. The key functions of the NEC are to:
i. The party shall notify the Electoral A. contribute to policy development
Commission of: B. win elections and maintain the support of
a. a person to be registered as the voters
party’s leader C. maintain a healthy party at all levels, engaged
b. a person to be registered as the in the community upholding the highest
party’s nominating officer standards in public life
c. a person to be registered as the D. ensure a high quality of service through a
party’s treasurer. contract with party members
ii. The party may also notify the Electoral E. fulfil its operational and constitutional
Commission of: responsibilities as defined in this clause
a. a person or persons to be registered F. maintain a balanced partnership between all
as the party’s deputy treasurer(s) party stakeholders
b. a person to be registered as the G. ensure the party meets its legal and financial
party’s campaigns officer. responsibilities in compliance with the
iii. Each accounting unit shall notify the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums
party of the following appointments, to Act 2000 and all other legislative
be notified by the party to the Electoral requirements.
Commission: 3. In furtherance of its primary purpose and key
a. a person to be registered as the functions, the duties and powers of the NEC shall
accounting unit’s treasurer include:
b. a person to be registered as the A. to uphold and enforce the constitution, rules
accounting unit’s deputy treasurer and standing orders of the party and to take
any action it deems necessary for such
B. In the case of 2.A.i.b and 2.A.i.c, and 2.Aii.a and
purpose, including disaffiliation, disbanding,
2.A.ii.b above, the registration of a person or
suspending or otherwise disciplining any
persons as statutory officers shall be subject
affiliated organisation or party unit; in
to the approval of the NEC.
furtherance of such duties it shall have the
Clause VIII. power to suspend or take other administrative
The National Executive Committee action against individual members of the party
subject to the provisions of the disciplinary
1. The NEC shall comprise: rules set out in chapter Chapter 6 below of
A. 24 members elected in such proportion and these rules
under such conditions as may be set out in B. subject to the preceding sub-clause (a) and
rules Chapter 3 C below and Chapter 4 C through its national and regional officers,
below. where the NEC so determines, to ensure the
B. the leader and deputy leader of the party establishment of and to keep in active
C. the leader of the EPLP operation in accordance with the rules laid
down by party conference
D. the treasurer of the party
i. a regional board in each region
E. three frontbench Members of Parliament, at
designated by the NEC and, in the case of
least one of whom must be a woman,
Scotland and Wales, a Scottish and Welsh
nominated by the Cabinet (or Shadow Cabinet
executive
in opposition)
ii. CLPs in each Westminster parliamentary
F. one youth member elected at the national
and European parliamentary
Young Labour Conference who must be a
constituency area
woman at least every other term.
iii. an LGC for each elected level of local
G. one member elected by the Labour Party
authority above parish or community – a
Black Socialist Society at its conference as laid
Labour group of councillors on local
down in the rules of the socialist society. This
authorities having Labour representation
member to be elected once the individual
membership of the socialist society has C. to establish and promote Young Labour by
reached 2,500 and at least one third of encouraging the formation of local Young
eligible trade unions have also affiliated to Labour groups, holding a regular Young Labour
the socialist society. Conference and establishing a national
committee in accordance with the rules laid
2. The primary purpose of the NEC shall be to
provide a strategic direction for the party as a
whole and to maintain and develop an active D. to establish and promote a women’s
party in the country, working in partnership with organisation throughout the country by
the party’s representatives in Parliament, the encouraging the formation of women’s forums
European Parliament, devolved administrations and by holding a regular national women’s
conference in accordance with the rules laid
Chapter 1
E. to ensure that party meetings and events purpose of insuring against the forfeiture of
shall be conducted in a friendly and orderly returning officers’ deposits at any general
manner and organised in such a way as to election. Also to establish a special fund with
maximize participation from members and trustees appointed by the NEC from affiliated
that no member shall be precluded from trade unions to provide solely for the
attendance because they cannot gain access preparation, organisation and campaigning
to the meeting place for any reason. necessary in a national election, this fund to
Harassment or intimidation of any member is be known as the Labour Party national
unacceptable as is any form of discrimination election fund
on the basis of gender, sexuality, disability or L. to secure advances from time to time, or to
race. The NEC shall from time to time, issue raise loans either by mortgage or otherwise
guidance and instructions on the conduct of and on such terms as it may deem expedient;
meetings and guidance and instructions on to employ any part of the funds at its disposal
the implementation of quotas for women’s in the purchase of any freehold or leasehold
representation building or site and/ or in the building, leasing,
F. to confer with the PLP at the opening of each holding or rental of any premises, and in the
parliamentary session and to convene at any fitting up and maintenance thereof; and to
other time when it or the PLP may desire a invest any moneys not immediately required
conference on any matters relating to the in such securities as it may deem proper and
work and progress of the party. When a to realise or to vary such investments from
Labour government is in office, to confer with time to time and to appoint trustees and/ or
its representatives prior to the formulation of form a society, association, company or
legislative proposals for the next companies in accordance with the provisions
parliamentary session of the Friendly Societies Acts or the
G. to present to the regular annual meeting of Companies Acts for any or all of the above
party conference a report covering the work purposes and to define the powers of such
and progress of the party during its period of trustees, society, association, company or
office, together with a report on the work of companies and the manner in which such
the NEC committees, a financial statement powers shall be exercised.
and duly audited accounts. This report, M. to issue guidance, give rulings and bring
financial statement and accounts shall be sent forward rule changes to party conference to
to CLPs and affiliated organisations at least ensure continued compliance with the party’s
two clear weeks before the opening of party legal and financial responsibilities, and to take
conference action on the advice of the General Secretary
H. to propose to party conference such to protect the party from actions by
amendments to the constitution, rules and organisations and individuals who fail to
standing orders as may be deemed desirable; comply with, or fail to co-operate with the
also, in accordance with the rules, to submit to party in meeting, such legislative
the party conference such resolutions and requirements.
declarations affecting the programme, N. to ensure an equal opportunities procedure is
principles and policies of the party as in its in place which covers the rights of members
view may be necessitated by political during all party activities. The NEC will work to
circumstances deliver a Labour Party that reflects the
I. to establish a Joint Policy Committee to communities it serves and will therefore
oversee the National Policy Forum and the ensure policy, practices and procedures
Policy Commissions in producing a rolling enshrine principles of equalities, inclusion and
programme for submission to party diversity. The NEC confirms the policy of
conference and which will be subject to an promoting equality, tackling
OMOV ballot of the eligible membership once underrepresentation and not unfairly
in each Parliament. The NEC shall also produce discriminating against anyone including on the
guidelines for the establishment and basis of gender, race, sexuality, disability or
operation of local policy forums. religious beliefs. The NEC shall provide
guidance for all aspects of the Party including
J. to require CLPs to hold ballots of individual
selections to Westminster Parliament,
members on such matters as they deem to be
European Parliament, Scottish Parliament,
appropriate; such ballots, where considered
Welsh Assembly, Devolved Bodies, Directly
necessary by the NEC or where provided for in
Elected Mayors, and Councillors for Principal
these rules, shall be conducted by means of a
Authorities. The NEC is responsible for
one-member-one-vote ballot on ballot papers
monitoring and developing equalities policy.
provided by, and to a timetable and procedure
laid down by, the NEC 4. The NEC shall have the power to adjudicate in
disputes that may arise at any level of the party,
K. to organise and maintain such fund or funds
including between CLPs, affiliated organizations
as may be thought necessary for any or all of
and other party units, and between CLPs, other
the objects for which the party exists,
party units and individuals in those units and in
including a fund to finance parliamentary by-
disputes which occur between individual
elections and a fund established for the
members or within the party organisation. Where
Chapter 1
the rules do not meet the particular C. The NCC may, for the better ordering of its
circumstances, the NEC may have regard to business from time to time and as it thinks fit,
national or local custom and practice as the case divide into panels of not less than three
may require. The NEC’s decisions shall be final and members who shall have the full powers of
binding on all organisations, units and individuals the NCC. Each such panel shall elect a chair as
concerned. occasion requires it. Each such panel shall
5. All powers of the NEC may be exercised as the include at least one member from each of
NEC deems appropriate through its elected divisions I and III as provided for in procedural
officers, committees, sub-committees, the rule Chapter 4 C.1.C below. If a member of
General Secretary and other national and regional such a panel is unable to attend a hearing, the
officials and designated representatives chair of the NCC may appoint another member
appointed by the NEC or the General Secretary. of the NCC to that panel as a replacement.
For the avoidance of doubt, it is hereby declared D. The NCC or any panel thereof shall meet at
that the NEC shall have the power to delegate its such time and at such place as it thinks fit
powers to such officers and committees and having regard to the convenience of the
subcommittees of the NEC and upon such terms individual concerned, the members of the NCC
as from time to time it shall see fit. Further, it or panel, any witnesses and the effective and
shall be deemed always to have had such power. proper conduct of any hearing.
Clause IX. 4. The NCC or any panel thereof in hearing and

determining charges against an individual shall
The National Constitutional Committee
have regard to procedural guidelines as
1. There shall be a National Constitutional determined by the NCC. The NCC shall have the
Committee of the party (‘the NCC’) to be elected power to supplement such guidelines from time
at party conference in accordance with the to time and to modify its procedures in order to
procedural rules (rule Chapter 4 C.1.C below). The meet the circumstances of any particular case to
NCC shall consist of 11 members of the party ensure fairness to both the individual and the
each of whom has been a member of the party for party.
a continuous period of not less than five years
5. The NCC shall have the right to dismiss without
immediately prior to their election.
full hearing or at any point any case presented to
2. The duties and powers of the NCC shall be: it which it or the panel appointed to hear the case
A. to determine by hearing or otherwise such considers by a majority vote to be frivolous,
disciplinary matters as are presented to it by vexatious, an abuse of the processes of the NCC,
CLPs in accordance with the provisions or where it considers that no case to answer has
contained in the disciplinary rules (Chapter been established.
Chapter 6 below).
Clause X.
B. to determine by hearing or otherwise such Scope of rules
disciplinary matters as are presented to it by
the officers of the party on the instructions of 1. The general provisions of these rules shall apply
the NEC to all units of the party and the model rules and
standing orders appended to these constitutional
C. where a determination has been made as a
rules shall apply to:
result of a case brought under A or B above, to
impose such disciplinary measures as it thinks A. CLPs
fit whether by way of reprimand or B. member branches organised within CLPs
suspension from holding office in the party, or C. women’s forums
being a delegate to any party body, or
D. Young Labour and Young Labour groups
withholding or withdrawing endorsement as a
candidate or prospective candidate of the E. LGCs
party at any level, or expulsion from F. local government Labour groups
membership of the party or other penalty. The G. the Scottish executive, Welsh executive and
decisions of the NCC in determining such English regional boards, including when acting
disciplinary matters brought before it and as European Constituency Labour Parties.
imposing such disciplinary measures as it sees
fit, shall be final. H. ethnic minorities forums
3. 2. The NEC shall have the authority to sanction,
where the NEC considers local circumstances
A. The NCC shall elect its chair each year from render it necessary, modifications in the rules laid
among its members at its first meeting to be down by party conference for the various party
held as soon after each annual session of units. Such modifications shall comply with the
party conference as practicable. spirit and intention of the rules adopted by party
B. The quorum for full meetings of the NCC or conference and may not alter the party objects,
hearings in front of the full NCC shall be not the basis or conditions of affiliated and individual
less than four members, who shall be present membership, vary the procedure for the selection
for the entirety of a hearing involving any of parliamentary or local government candidates
individual. (except as provided for in the rules) or effect a
Chapter 1
change in the relationship between CLPs and the

party.
3. Party units may adopt additional rules which shall
not contravene the provisions contained in the
rules adopted by party conference and must be
submitted to the NEC for endorsement prior to
final adoption and implementation; pending such
endorsement or rejection no such additional rule
may be invoked.
4. The existing constitution and rules, or any part
thereof, may be amended, altered or additions
made thereto by resolutions carried on a card
vote at party conference in the manner provided
for in the procedural rules for party conference
which are appended hereto. Notice of resolution
embodying any such proposal must be sent to the
General Secretary at the head office of the party
also in the manner provided for in the procedural
rules.
5. For the avoidance of any doubt, any dispute as to
the meaning, interpretation or general application
of the constitution, standing orders and rules of
the party or any unit of the party shall be referred
to the NEC for determination, and the decision of
the NEC thereupon shall be final and conclusive
for all purposes. The decision of the NEC subject
to any modification by party conference as to the
meaning and effect of any rule or any part of this
constitution and rules shall be final.
Chapter 1
D. Where a member has been convicted of a
Chapter 2 serious criminal offence and has received a

prison sentence, the NEC shall have the right
to impose the appropriate disciplinary action
Membership rules from the following options:

i. Suspension from membership or from
holding office and representation of the
party for the duration of the prison
sentence.
ii. Referral of disciplinary case to the NCC
A. Conditions of membership iii. Where the NEC determines it is
1. There shall be individual members of the Labour appropriate and based on a conviction for
Party who shall pay a subscription in accordance a serious offence, shall automatically be
with these rules, subject to a minimum as laid ineligible to be or remain a party member,
down in rule C below. subject to the provisions of part Chapter
2. The term ‘individual members of the party’ shall 6 A.2 below of the disciplinary rules.
encompass all grades of membership laid down in 5. Resident abroad
rule C below; all such members shall have A. Subjects of Great Britain or Northern Ireland or
equivalent rights within all units of the party citizens of Eire, the Channel Islands and Isle of
except as prescribed in these rules. Man resident abroad may become individual
3. Individual members shall be subjects/residents of overseas members of the party, by enrolment
The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern with head office and paying the full standard
Ireland or citizens of Eire or other persons rate subscription, provided they accept the
resident in The United Kingdom of Great Britain conditions of membership in this clause.
and Northern Ireland for more than one year who: Overseas members may establish overseas
A. are not less than 15 years of age, and supporters groups registered with head office.
B. subscribe to the conditions of membership in B. Subjects of Great Britain or Northern Ireland
this clause, and temporarily resident abroad may retain their
existing membership of the party, subject to
C. are not members of political parties or notifying head office of their address, paying
organisations ancillary or subsidiary thereto the full standard rate subscription and
declared by party conference or by the NEC in accepting the conditions of membership in
pursuance of party conference decisions to be this clause.
ineligible for affiliation to the party.
C. The individual members and supporters
4. Excusions groups referred to in this clause shall be
A. A member of the party who stands for known as Labour International which shall
election, subscribes to a nomination paper of operate according to regulations approved by
or acts as the election agent to a person the NEC but shall include provision for the
standing for election, in opposition to a Labour representation of Labour International
candidate, shall automatically be ineligible to members at party conference, with a voting
be or remain a party member, subject to the entitlement as for CLPs in Chapter 3 C.3.A.ii
provisions of part Chapter 6 A.2 below of the below.
disciplinary rules. 6. To be and remain eligible for membership, each
B. A member of the party who joins and/ or individual member must:
supports a political organisation other than an A. accept and conform to the constitution,
official Labour group or other unit of the programme, principles and policy of the party
party, or supports any candidate who stands
against an official Labour candidate, or B. if applicable, be a member of a trade union
publicly declares their intent to stand against affiliated to the Trade Union Congress or
a Labour candidate, shall automatically be considered by the NEC as a bona fide trade
ineligible to be or remain a party member, union and contribute to the political fund of
subject to the provisions of part Chapter 6 A.2 that union (a person who does not contribute
below of the disciplinary rules. to the political fund of her/his trade union
may not be an individual member of the party)
C. A member of the party that is a duly endorsed
Labour candidate and stands by their own C. be a member of the CLP (where one exists) for
volition as a candidate under a description the address where she or he resides and is
other than as a Labour candidate and having registered as an elector unless having moved
given less than 14 days written notice of such since the registration qualifying date,
to the local party prior to the close of temporarily resident abroad or otherwise
nominations, shall automatically be ineligible prevented from being registered, in which
to be or remain a party member, subject to the case she or he must be resident within that
provisions of part Chapter 6 A.2 below of the constituency.
disciplinary rules. D. on becoming elected as a public
representative (i.e. member of Westminster,
Chapter 2
Membership rules Page 18 of 100
Scottish or European Parliament, Greater including a code of conduct on membership

London Assembly, Welsh Assembly or local recruitment. In particular, the NEC wishes to
government body), pay their membership highlight the following areas of potential abuse
subscriptions by Direct Debit and at the of membership rules:
standard rate. A. It is an abuse of party rules for one individual
7. The NEC may rescind endorsement as a full party or faction to ‘buy’ party membership for other
member when evidence is provided that the individuals or groups of individuals who would
individual concerned neither resides &/or is on the otherwise be unwilling to pay their own
electoral register and is therefore (subject to 5 subscriptions.
above) ineligible for membership; or where B. It is an abuse of party rules for an individual or
evidence is provided that the individual faction to offer reduced-rate membership to
concerned has been claiming reduced rate or people they know to be ineligible for that
registered membership when s/he is not entitled category of membership.
to it under C.1 below.
C. It is an abuse of party rules for individuals or
8. No member of the party shall engage in conduct factions to recruit members who do not live at
which in the opinion of the NCC is prejudicial, or in the claimed addresses in an attempt to
any act which in the opinion of the NCC is grossly manipulate local party meetings or the
detrimental to the party. Any dispute as to outcome of party ballots.
whether a member is in breach of the provisions
D. It is a requirement of party rules for members,
of this sub-clause shall be determined by the NCC
where eligible, to register to vote at the
in accordance with Chapter 1 Clause IX above of
address for which they claim membership. It is
the constitutional rules (in chapter Chapter 1
an abuse of this rule to allow those who are
above) and the disciplinary rules and guidelines
not willing to register to vote for the party to
(in chapter Chapter 6 below). Where appropriate
become members of it.
the NCC shall have regard to involvement in
financial support for the organisation and/ or the E. It shall be regarded as an act grossly
activities of any organisation declared ineligible detrimental to the party to withhold
for affiliation to the party under Clause II.5 of the membership payments collected locally. Party
constitutional rules or 3.C above; or to the officers and members should be aware that
candidature of the members in opposition to an involvement in such abuses shall be
officially endorsed Labour Party candidate or the considered as behaviour likely to bring the
support for such candidature. The NCC shall not party into disrepute and prima facie evidence
have regard to the mere holding or expression of of such behaviour may lead to disciplinary
beliefs and opinions. action leading to expulsion under the
constitutional rules of the party.
B. Membership procedures
C. Membership subscriptions
1. Individual members of the party shall be recruited
into membership in accordance with these rules 1. Each individual member of the party shall pay a
and any applicable NEC guidelines which shall be minimum annual membership subscription of £36,
issued to party units and affiliated organisations with the following exceptions:
from time to time. Members of affiliated A. Unwaged persons, pensioners who have
organisations not already members who have retired from work, persons working less than
paid the political levy or political subscriptions to 16 hours a week and persons on government
the affiliated organization for a period of at least training schemes, shall be allowed individual
12 months may be recruited into membership of ‘reduced’ membership of the party at a
the party via that affiliated organisation as reduced minimum annual subscription of £12.
registered members. B. Members of an affiliated trade union paying
2. Without prejudice to any other provision of these the political levy and members of an affiliated
rules, and without prejudice to its powers under socialist society paying a political subscription,
Clause VIII of the constitutional rules, the NEC who are not already full members of the party,
shall be empowered to determine any dispute or shall be allowed individual ‘registered’
question which may arise in respect of membership of the party at a reduced
membership of the party, either by considering minimum annual subscription of £12.
the matter itself or by referring the matter to the C. MPs, MEPs, MSPs, AMs and members of the
NEC Disputes Panel for a decision. In such cases Labour Group in the House of Lords shall pay
the NEC’s decision, or the decision of the Disputes an annual subscription of £60.
Panel as approved by the NEC, shall be final and
binding. D. New members under the age of 19 or Labour
Students can join for an annual subscription of
3. For the avoidance of doubt and without prejudice £1 and can continue on this rate whilst they
to any other provision in this rule book, any are in full time education, thereafter reverting
breach of any of these procedures, NEC guidelines to the standard rate. In order to provide all
or the NEC code of conduct shall be liable to be members with a quality membership service
dealt with by the NCC as a disciplinary offence. and to achieve the objectives of the Labour
4. The NEC shall issue procedural guidelines on Party, members are encouraged to pay a
issues relating to membership from time to time,
Chapter 2
membership fee according to their annual

income.
2. The NEC will determine membership rates as and
when necessary for Annual Conference to
approve. Membership fees, after receipt at head
office, shall be divided between the constituency
and head office in the following ratios:
Subscription
CLP protion
Campaign
National
portion
fund
rate
Standard £36 £8 £16 £12

Parliament £60 £16 £24 £20
arians
Reduced £12 £4 £8 £0
Registered £12 £4 £8 £0
Youth & £1 £0 £0 £0
Student
3. The campaign fund portion of the subscription

rate will be payable to the national party with the
exception of the year of a general election when
this, in addition to the Constituency portion, will
be payable to the Constituency.
4. In order to develop membership, CLPs may adjust
membership subscriptions for specific purposes as
agreed in principle by party conference.
5. Eligibility and arrears
A. A member may only participate and vote in
party meetings if they are endorsed and have
paid the appropriate subscription to head
office. Any dispute as to eligibility shall be
resolved by the regional director or Scottish/
Welsh general secretary (or their designated
representative) with reference to the records
of the national membership system. It is the
responsibility of the individual member to
produce a valid membership card when
required.
B. To participate in the selection of candidates at
any level, a member must be fully paid up by
the notified relevant date. A member shall be
deemed to be ‘fully paid up’ if they are not in
arrears, either in whole or in part, with their
membership payments.
C. A member shall be deemed to be in arrears
from the expiry date of their membership until
they renew their subscription.
D. A member shall be deemed to have lapsed
from membership if s/he has been in arrears
for six months and has not responded to a
request to pay the arrears.
6. NEC guidelines shall be published to deal with the
payment of membership arrears and the granting
in exceptional circumstances of continuous
membership to lapsed members who have paid
any outstanding subscriptions owed.
Chapter 2
vi. accredited organisers employed by the
Chapter 3 party
vii. the lay members of the NEC committees
viii. the chair of the National Committee of
Party Conference Young Labour
ix. members of the National Constitutional
Committee
x. members of the National Policy Forum
xi. officers of the Local Government
A. Delegations Association Labour group and the
convenor of the Convention of Scottish
1. Party conference shall be constituted as follows:
Local Authorities Labour group
A. Delegates duly appointed by each affiliated
xii. members of the Labour groups of the
trade union or other affiliated organisation to
Scottish Parliament and the National
the number of one delegate for each 5,000
Assembly of Wales.
members or part thereof on whom affiliation
fees, by election insurance premiums and any xiii. members of the Association of Labour
levies due were paid for the year ending 31 Councillors Ex-officio members shall have
December prior to the conference. A no voting power, except as provided for
requirement is placed on affiliated in the rules for the election of party
organisations that their delegation should leader and deputy leader or where they
include women at least in the proportions in have been notified as being a member of
which they are represented in that an affiliated organisation’s or CLP’s
organisation’s membership. Where the delegation.
membership of an affiliated trade union or xiv. members of the Executive Committee of
other organisation is less than 5,000 the Black Socialist Society.
members, an additional woman delegate may E. Any special sessions of party conference shall
be appointed if the women’s membership is be called on the same basis of representation
400 or more. as that upon which the preceding annual
B. Delegates duly appointed by CLPs to the session of party conference was convened.
number of one delegate for the first 749 2. An affiliated organisation or CLP may appoint a
individual members in the constituency or part delegate in addition to its entitlement under 3A.1
thereof paying their membership dues as of of this clause if one of its duly appointed
31 December in the previous year, and one delegates is the treasurer, a member of the NEC, a
further delegate for every additional 250 member of the Conference Arrangements
individual members in the constituency or part Committee, or a member of the National
thereof. CLPs must also have paid any Constitutional Committee due for reelection that
outstanding insurance premiums and other year.
levies due before their delegation shall be
accepted. To increase the representation of 3. The procedural rules of party conference
women at party conference, at least every appended to these rules (C below) shall be
second delegate from a CLP shall be a woman; considered for all purposes as if they form part of
where only one delegate is appointed this the constitution and shall have effect accordingly.
must be a woman at least in every other year. 4. All delegates must qualify for appointment as
C. Where the individual women’s membership in follows:
a constituency is 400 or more, an additional A. Every delegate must be an individual member
woman delegate may be appointed. Where the of the party as described in the membership
individual Young Labour membership in a rules, except persons who are resident in
constituency is 100 or more an additional Northern Ireland who are duly appointed
delegate under the age of 23 may be delegates of affiliated trade unions and who
appointed. individually accept and conform to the
D. Ex-officio members of party conference are as constitution, programme, policy and principles
follows: of the party.
i. members of the NEC B. Delegates must be bona fide members or paid
permanent officials of the organisation
ii. members of the PLP appointing them, or, in the case of CLP
iii. members of the EPLP delegates, reside within the constituency they
iv. parliamentary Labour candidates for have been appointed to represent, except in
Westminster and European elections the case of members of the PLP or duly
whose candidatures have been endorsed endorsed parliamentary Labour candidates
by the NEC appointed to represent CLPs in accordance
with sub-section C which follows.
v. the General Secretary of the Labour
Party C. Members of the PLP and duly endorsed
parliamentary Labour candidates may be
appointed as delegates by CLPs responsible
Chapter 3
Party Conference Page 21 of 100
for their candidatures; otherwise, delegates affiliated organisations and CLPs. For the
appointed by CLPs must either reside or be annual session of party conference this shall
registered as electors in the constituency be fixed by 31 December of the preceding
they represent. year.
D. No person shall act as a delegate for more E. The timetable for the receipt of names and
than one organisation. addresses of delegates appointed by affiliated
E. Members of Parliament who are not members organisations and CLPs shall be determined by
of the PLP are ineligible to act as delegates. the NEC and submitted to the affiliated
organisations and CLPs with the notice
F. All delegates must have been individual
convening the conference. In the case of a
members of the party for at least 12 months
special conference session called under Clause
at the closing date set for the receipt of
VI of the constitution, the NEC shall also
names of delegates (see C.1.E below).
determine a date by which such names and
B. Conference Arrangements Committee addresses shall be submitted.
1. There shall be elected in accordance with the F. The NEC may make arrangements each year
procedural rules Chapter 4 C.1.B below a for the pooling of railway fares in respect of
Conference Arrangements Committee of seven delegations to party conference appointed by
members for the annual session of party CLPs.
conference in the year succeeding its election or 2. Conference rule 2 – Agenda
for any special session of conference called A. The NEC shall present to conference the
during the intervening period. A member of staff report of the NEC, including: a summary of its
shall act as secretary to the committee. work during the previous year; the work of the
2. The duties of the Conference Arrangements NEC committees and proposed programme for
Committee shall be: the forthcoming year. All such documentation
A. to arrange the order of the agenda of party shall be circulated to all affiliated
conference organisations and CLPs by a date to be
determined by the NEC.
B. to act as a standing orders committee
B. The NEC shall present to conference the
C. to select scrutineers and tellers as may be
report of the NPF, including: a summary of its
required from among the delegates whose
work during the previous year; the work of the
names have been received at the head office
policy commissions; draft and final documents;
of the party by the closing date for the
options, alternatives or minority reports by
appointment of delegates to any conference
the NPF; and proposed programme for the
and submit them for approval to that
forthcoming year to be circulated to all
conference.
affiliated organisations and CLPs by a date to
C. Procedural rules for Party Conference be determined by the NEC.
1. Conference rule 1 – Annual Party Conference C. All affiliated organisations and CLPs may
submit one contemporary issue which is not
A. The NEC shall (whenever practicable) convene
substantially addressed by reports of the NEC
an annual session of party conference during
or NPF to Conference . The CAC shall
September/ October in each year, in
determine whether the issues meet these
accordance with the conditions laid down in
criteria and submit all issues received to a
the constitution and these rules. It may also
priorities ballot at the start of conference. The
convene special sessions of party conference
ballot will be divided into two sections. One
when it deems necessary.
section for CLPs and one section for trade
B. When a party conference is called at short unions and other affiliated organisations. At
notice, the secretaries of affiliated least the four priorities selected by CLPs will
organisations and CLPs shall, on receiving the be time-tabled for debate, as will at least the
summons, instantly take steps to secure first four priorities selected by Trade Unions
representation of their organisation in and other affiliated organisations. Issues must
accordance with the constitution and these be in writing, on one subject only and in ten
rules. words or less and may be supported by an
C. Any session of party conference summoned explanation of why the issue should be
with less than ten days’ notice shall confine prioritised. Alternatively, a constitutional
its business strictly to that relating to the amendment on one subject only may be
emergency giving rise to the special session. submitted in writing. Contemporary issues and
D. A delegation fee on each delegate shall be constitutional amendments must be received
payable by affiliated organisations and CLPs by the General Secretary at the offices of the
sending delegates to party conference. Ex party by the closing date determined by the
officio members of party conference in NEC.
attendance shall also pay a fee. Such fees D. All affiliated organisations and CLPs may
must be paid to party head office before submit motions to the NEC on campaigning
credentials are issued. The amount of the and organisational issues and to the NPF and
delegation fee payable for each conference its policy commissions on policy issues
shall be fixed by the NEC and notified to all throughout the year. The NEC and NPF shall
Chapter 3
consider such motions and report on action of fully paid up members in the CLP at 31
taken in their annual report to conference. December preceding the conference. The
E. Nominations for leader and deputy leader, the vote of the CLP shall then be divided
NEC, treasurer, auditors, Conference equally among the registered delegates
Arrangements Committee, National Policy standing appointed at the date
Forum and National Constitutional Committee determined by the NEC; such votes shall
shall be sent in writing on the form provided be allocated to each delegate to be cast
to the secretary at the offices of the party by separately.
the closing date agreed by the NEC. Each iii. The votes apportioned as provided for in
affiliated organisation and CLP shall be i above and ii above shall be totalled and
entitled to make nominations as provided for the aggregate reported to conference as
in these rules and such nominations shall be a percentage for each section.
included in the final agenda. iv. The balance of voting between the two
F. Constitutional amendments, contemporary sections shall be: 50 per cent to the
issues, emergency resolutions and affiliated organisations (as in i above),
nominations shall be accepted only from those and 50 per cent to the CLPs (as in ii
affiliated organisations and CLPs who have above).
met their financial obligations to the party, B. Voting at any special conference session shall
including affiliation fees, by-election and be on the same basis as that upon which
other insurance premiums and any levies due voting took place at the preceding annual
for the preceding year. session of party conference.
G. Conference shall consider policy reports and
draft reports as part of the rolling programme,
the NPF report, the NEC annual report, NEC
statements and development strategy,
constitutional amendments and contemporary
issues or emergency resolutions submitted
and accepted. It shall not consider any
business unless recommended by the NEC or
the CAC. At any special session of party
conference, the NEC shall determine the
business to be conducted.
H. When party conference has made a decision
on a constitutional amendment, no resolution
to amend that part of the constitution or rules
of the party shall appear on the agenda for a
period of three years from the time such
decision is made, except such resolutions to
amend the constitution and rules that are in
the opinion of the NEC of immediate
importance.
3. Conference rule 3 – Voting
A. Voting at party conference on resolutions,
reports, amendments, proposals and
references back shall be by show of hands or,
when the conditions laid down by the CAC
require it, by card. When a card vote is called,
voting shall be in two sections as follows:
i. Affiliated organisations shall cast a
percentage of the total voting
entitlement as laid down in iv below , on
the basis of the number of members for
whom affiliation fees were paid for the
year ending 31 December preceding the
conference in accordance with Clause II
of the constitution. The vote of each
affiliated organisation shall then be
divided equally among the registered
delegates of that organisation standing
appointed at the date determined by the
NEC; such votes shall be allocated to
each delegate to be cast separately.
ii. CLPs shall cast a percentage of the total
voting entitlement as laid down in iv
below , on the basis of the actual number
Chapter 3
written consent to nomination is
Chapter 4 v.
received, nominations shall be rendered
null and void.
Valid nominations shall be printed in the
Elections of national final agenda for party conference,
together with the names of the
officers of the party and nominating organisations and Commons

members of the PLP supporting the
nominations. In the case of a vacancy
national committees under E below this information shall be
included with the documentation
circulated with any ballot.
vi. Nominees who do not attend the
relevant party conference shall be
deemed to have withdrawn their
A. General principles nominations, unless they send to the
1. Internal party elections for officer posts and the secretary – on or before the day on which
membership of national committees shall be the conference opens – an explanation in
conducted in a fair, open and transparent manner, writing of their absence satisfactory to
in accordance with the constitutional rules of the the CAC.
party and any appropriate NEC guidelines.
C. Voting
B. Procedural rules for elections for national i. Voting in the election of leader and
officers of the party deputy leader shall take place so that the
1. General results are declared at an annual session
of party conference; except in the case
A. The following procedures provide a rules of a vacancy occurring under E below of
framework which, unless varied by the this rule when the timetable for the
consent of the NEC, shall be followed when ballot shall be as determined by the NEC.
conducting elections for party officers. The
NEC will also issue procedural guidelines on ii. Voting shall take place consecutively in
nominations, timetable, codes of conduct for three sections as follows:
candidates and other matters relating to the a. Section 1 shall consist of Commons
conduct of these elections. members of the PLP and members of
the European PLP. Each such member
2. Election of leader and deputy leader
shall be entitled to one vote in each
A. The leader and deputy leader shall be elected ballot held under this section of the
separately in accordance with rule C below, rules.
unless rule E below applies.
b. Section 2 shall consist of a vote of all
B. Nomination eligible individual members of the
i. In the case of a vacancy for leader or party on the basis of one member one
deputy leader, each nomination must be vote. This ballot shall take place on a
supported by 12.5 per cent of the national basis and shall be counted
Commons members of the PLP. and recorded as an aggregate vote
Nominations not attaining this threshold broken down by CLP. Eligible
shall be null and void. members shall be those currently on
ii. Where there is no vacancy, nominations the national membership list who are
shall be sought each year prior to the endorsed and have not lapsed from
annual session of party conference. In membership.
this case any nomination must be c. Section 3 shall consist of those
supported by 20 per cent of the members of affiliated organisations
Commons members of the PLP. who have indicated their support for
Nominations not attaining this threshold the Labour Party and that they are
shall be null and void. not members or supporters of any
iii. Affiliated organisations, CLPs and Labour other party or otherwise ineligible to
Members of the European Parliament be members of the Labour Party.
may also nominate for each of the Voting shall take place under the
offices of leader and deputy leader. All procedures of each affiliated
nominees must be Commons members of organisation, but on a one-person-
the PLP. one-vote basis recorded by affiliated
organisations and aggregated for a
iv. Nominees shall inform the General
national total. The ballot paper shall
Secretary in writing of the acceptance or
provide for the declaration of support
otherwise of their nomination at least
and eligibility required under this rule
two clear weeks before the
if no prior declaration has been made.
commencement of the procedures for
voting laid out in rule C below. Unless
Chapter 4
Elections of national officers of the party and national committees Page 24 of 100
iii. The votes of each nominee in each NEC, appoint one of its members to serve
section shall be calculated as a as deputy leader until the next party
percentage of the total votes cast in that conference. The Cabinet may
section and shall then be apportioned as alternatively, in consultation with the
follows: NEC, leave the post vacant until the next
a. Section 1 (members of the Commons party conference.
and European PLPs) – one third iv. When the party is in opposition and the
b. Section 2 (individual members of the party leader, for whatever reason,
Labour Party) – one third becomes permanently unavailable, the
deputy leader shall automatically become
c. Section 3 (members of affiliated
party leader on a pro-tem basis. The NEC
organisations) – one third.
shall decide whether to hold an
iv. The votes apportioned as provided in iii immediate ballot as provided under E
above shall be totalled and the candidate above or to elect a new leader at the
receiving more than half of the votes so next annual session of party conference.
apportioned shall be declared elected. If
v. When the party is in opposition and the
no candidate reaches this total on the
leader and deputy leader, for whatever
first ballot, further ballots shall be held
reason, both become permanently
on an elimination basis. The
unavailable, the NEC shall order a postal
redistribution of votes shall be according
ballot as provided under E above. In
to preferences indicated on the ballot
consultation with the Shadow Cabinet
paper.
they may choose to appoint a member of
v. The votes cast for each nominee in each the Shadow Cabinet to serve as party
section shall be recorded and published leader until the outcome of that ballot.
in a form to be determined by the NEC as
3. Election of chair and vice-chair
soon as possible following any election.
A. The NEC shall elect its own chair and vice-
D. Timing of an election
chair at its first meeting each year. Those
i. When the PLP is in opposition in the elected to these positions shall act in that
House of Commons, the election of the capacity throughout the year and also act as
leader and deputy leader shall take place chair and vice-chair of the subsequent annual
at each annual session of party session of party conference and any special
conference. sessions of party conference during the
ii. When the PLP is in government and the course of the year.
leader and/ or deputy leader are prime B. The NEC shall also elect during the course of
minister and/ or in Cabinet, an election the year a panel of three assistant chairs who,
shall proceed only if requested by a together with the vice-chair, shall assist the
majority of party conference on a card chair in the conduct of party conference.
vote. These assistant chairs shall be elected by the
iii. In any other circumstances an election whole of the NEC with one each coming from
shall only be held when a vacancy occurs, the representatives on the NEC from Divisions
subject to E below. I and II, Division III, and Divisions IV and V, by
E. Procedure in a vacancy selection from each division of the NEC of the
senior member who has yet to be chair or
i. When the party is in government and the vicechair. The decision as to who shall chair
party leader is prime minister and the particular sessions of the conference shall be
party leader, for whatever reason, taken by the chair of the NEC after
becomes permanently unavailable, the consultation with the members of the panel.
Cabinet shall, in consultation with the
NEC, appoint one of its members to serve 4. Election of General Secretary
as party leader until a ballot under these A. The General Secretary shall be elected by
rules can be carried out. party conference on the recommendation of
ii. When the party is in government and the the NEC and shall be an ex-officio member of
deputy leader becomes party leader party conference. S/he shall devote her or his
under i above of this rule, the Cabinet whole time to the work of the party and shall
may, in consultation with the NEC, not be eligible to act as a parliamentary
appoint one of its members to serve as candidate. S/he shall remain in office so long
deputy leader until the next party as her/ his work gives satisfaction to the NEC
conference. The Cabinet may and party conference. Should a vacancy in the
alternatively, in consultation with the office occur, for whatever reason, between
NEC, leave the post vacant until the next party conferences, the NEC shall have full
party conference. power to fill the vacancy subject to the
approval of party conference.
iii. When the party is in government and the
deputy leader, for whatever reason, 5. Election of party treasurer
becomes permanently unavailable, the
Cabinet may, in consultation with the
Chapter 4
A. Every affiliated organisation and CLP may the NEC shall be divided into five
nominate a person for party treasurer who is divisions:
an eligible member of the party. a. Division I (trade unions) shall consist
B. The treasurer shall be elected by means of a of 12 members, at least six of whom
ballot on a card vote basis as provided in shall be women, to be nominated by
these rules. The CLPs’ portion of the votes trade unions and elected by their
shall be cast by a ballot among all eligible delegations at party conference.
individual members of the party by means of a b. Division II (socialist and co-operative
national one-member-one-vote postal ballot societies) shall consist of one
conducted to guidelines laid down by the NEC. member to be nominated by socialist,
C. The term of office of the party treasurer shall co-operative and other organisations
be for two years. and elected by their delegations at
6. Election of auditors party conference.
A. Two auditors shall be elected by means of a c. Division III (CLPs) shall consist of six
ballot on a card vote basis as provided in members, at least three of whom
these rules. The CLPs’ proportion of the votes shall be women, to be nominated by
cast shall be decided by a ballot among all their own CLP and at least two other
eligible individual members of the party by CLPs. The ballot for these places shall
means of a national one-member-one-vote be conducted among all eligible
postal ballot conducted to guidelines laid individual members of the party by
down by the NEC. means of a national one-member-
one-vote postal ballot conducted to
B. Every affiliated organisation and CLP may guidelines laid down by the NEC.
nominate a person for auditor who is an
eligible member of the party. d. Division IV (local government) shall
consist of two members of the
C. In the event of an auditor being unable to
Association of Labour Councillors
fulfil the duties, the same procedure shall be (‘ALC’), at least one of whom shall be
followed to fill the vacancy as in the case of
a woman, duly nominated by Labour
the CAC in C.1.B.iii below.
groups. The ballot for these places
7. Election of leaders of the Labour groups in the shall be conducted among all
Scottish Parliament and the Welsh Assembly individual ALC members by means of
A. The leader of the Labour group in the Scottish a national one-member-one-vote
Parliament and the leader of the Welsh postal ballot conducted to guidelines
Assembly shall be elected according to the laid down by the NEC.
rules framework for the leader and deputy e. Division V (PLP) shall consist of three
leader of the party set out in Chapter 4 B.2 Commons members of the PLP or
above, subject to any guidelines issued by the members of the EPLP, at least one of
NEC from time to time. whom shall be a woman. They shall
be nominated from among backbench
C. Procedural rules for elections for national
Labour MPs and all MEPs (except the
committees leader of the EPLP) and elected by all
1. The following procedures provide a rules Labour MPs and MEPs. The ballot
framework to be followed when conducting shall be conducted to guidelines laid
elections for places on the party’s national down by the NEC.
decision-making committees. The NEC will also ii. The votes cast for each nominee by all
issue procedural guidelines on nominations, affiliated organisations and CLPs shall be
timetable, codes of conduct for candidates and recorded and published following each
other matters relating to the conduct of these conference.
elections.
iii. Nominations for the NEC shall be made in
A. Election of the National Executive Committee accordance with the following conditions:
i. No elected member of the House of a. Nominees must be bona fide paying
Commons, European Parliament, Scottish members of the affiliated
Parliament, Welsh Assembly or a member organisations/CLPs submitting their
of the House of Lords shall be eligible to nominations (other than supporting
stand in Divisions I, II, III, or IV of the NEC. nominations).
Any member of Divisions I, II, III or IV shall
b. A nominee of a CLP must be
cease to be a member of the NEC if they
registered as an elector in the area of
are elected to the House of Commons,
the CLP submitting the nomination
European Parliament, Scottish
Parliament, Welsh Assembly or are (unless ineligible for such registration
in which case s/he must be resident
appointed to the House of Lords. The
in that area), unless the CLP is making
resulting vacancy shall be filled according
to the provision of Clause iv below. For a supporting nomination for a
member of another CLP.
the purpose of nomination and election
Chapter 4
c. Commons members of the PLP and iv. The term of office for CAC members shall
members of the EPLP shall be be two years.
ineligible for nomination to Divisions C. Election of National Constitutional Committee
I, II, III and IV of the NEC.
i. For the purposes only of nomination and
d. Members of the General Council of election, the NCC shall be divided into
the Trades Union Congress are not three divisions as follows:
eligible for nomination to the NEC.
a. Division I shall consist of six
e. Persons nominated shall inform the members, at least three of whom
General Secretary in writing of the shall be women, to be nominated by
acceptance or otherwise of that affiliated trade unions and elected by
nomination in accordance with the their delegations at party conference
timetable determined by the NEC. If on a card vote basis.
written consent to nomination is not
b. Division II shall consist of one
received by the date specified in the
member to be nominated by socialist,
NEC timetable the nomination shall
co-operative and other organisations
be rendered null and void.
and elected by their delegations at
iv. Any vacancy which occurs among party conference on a card vote basis.
members of the NEC between annual
c. Division III shall consist of four
sessions of party conference shall be
members, at least two of whom shall
filled by the NEC co-opting the highest
be women, to be nominated by CLPs
unsuccessful nominee in the division
and elected by their delegations at
concerned (subject to the rules on
party conference on a card vote basis.
maintaining at least 50% representation
for women) as shown in the results of ii. The votes cast for each nominee by all
the election for the NEC declared at the affiliated organisations and CLPs shall be
annual session of party conference recorded and published following each
immediately preceding the vacancy. conference.
v. The term of office in each of the five NEC iii. Nominations for the NCC shall be made in
divisions shall be two years. accordance with the following conditions:
B. Election of Conference Arrangements a. Nominees must be bona fide paying
Committee members of the affiliated
organisations or CLPs submitting
i. The CAC shall consist of seven members,
their nominations.
at least three of whom shall be women.
b. No member of the NEC, MP, MEP,
a. Five members, at least two of whom
employee of the party, or any
shall be women, nominated by
member with less than five years
affiliated organizations or CLPs shall
continuous membership of the party
be elected by party conference by
is eligible for nomination.
means of a ballot on a card vote basis
as provided in these rules. c. Persons nominated shall inform the
General Secretary in writing of the
b. The other two members, at least one
acceptance or otherwise of that
of whom shall be a woman,
nomination 12 clear weeks before
nominated by CLPs shall be elected
the opening of the conference.
by means of a ballot among delegates
Unless such written consent to
from CLPs at party conference on a
nomination is received the
card vote basis as provided in these
nomination shall be deemed null and
rules Chapter 3 C.3.A above.
void.
ii. Every affiliated organisation and CLP
d. Each affiliated organisation/ CLP may
may nominate an eligible member of the
make one nomination for its
party for a seat on the CAC.
appropriate division (I, II or III) of the
iii. Any vacancy which occurs between party NCC.
conferences among members of the CAC
iv. Members of the NCC shall be elected at
shall be filled by the CAC co-opting the
an annual session of party conference for
delegate or ex-officio member who
a period of three years and be subject to
received the highest total of votes
reelection on a rota to be determined by
among those not elected in the
the NEC.
appropriate section of the ballot for the
CAC at the previous conference (and not v. Any vacancy which occurs among
already a member of the CAC). Should the members of the NCC during a period of
voting list be exhausted the affiliated office shall be filled by election at the
organisation or CLP which nominated the next party conference after the vacancy
member originally elected to the vacant arises. The period of office of any person
seat shall nominate a substitute to serve elected to fill such a vacancy shall run to
the rest of the term. the end of the original term of the
member who gave rise to the vacancy
Chapter 4
and the new member shall be subject to be nominated and elected by Labour
re-election at that party conference. peers.
Such elections shall be held in ii. Additionally the four officers of the
accordance with the provisions of C Welsh Policy Forum and the four officers
above. of the Scottish Policy Forum shall be
D. Election of National Policy Forum members of the National Policy Forum.
i. For the purpose of election, the NPF shall iii. Additionally the Cabinet or Shadow
be divided into eight divisions as follows: Cabinet in opposition shall appoint eight
a. Division I shall consist of 55 members frontbench representatives, at least
to be nominated and elected by CLPs. three of whom shall be women and the
Five each shall be elected from Co-operative Party shall be entitled to
Scotland, Wales and the English appoint two representatives, at least one
regions, of which one place shall be of whom shall be a woman, as well as the
reserved for a Young Labour General Secretary of the Co-operative
Party who shall be ex-officio.
b. representative and at least two of
the four other places shall be iv. Elections to all divisions of the NPF shall
reserved for women. The Young be conducted to guidelines laid down by
Labour representative must be a the NEC. The term of office shall be for
woman at least every other election. two years. Members of the NEC shall be
ex-officio members of the NPF.
c. Division II shall consist of 30
members, at least 15 of whom shall v. No member shall be eligible for
be women, to be nominated and nomination to more than one position to
elected by affiliated trade unions. be filled by election at party conference
in respect of the NEC, CAC, NCC,
d. Division III shall consist of 22
Treasurer, and Auditors, nor serve on
representatives from the Scottish,
more than one of these bodies at any
Welsh and English regional
given time. In the event of any member
conferences or regional policy forums.
being nominated for more than one such
Two, at least one of whom shall be a
position, the member shall be requested
woman, shall be elected from
to select the position for which she or he
Scotland, Wales and each English
desires to remain nominated. After the
region.
selection has been made the member’s
e. Division IV shall consist of nine name shall be omitted from the
Labour local government nominations for all other positions.
representatives. Four each to be Should no selection of position be made
elected by the Local Government six clear weeks before the opening of
Association Labour group and the the conference, all nominations made on
Association of Labour Councillors, at behalf of the member concerned shall be
least two each of whom shall be deemed null and void.
women; and one representative of
the Convention of Scottish Local
Authorities Labour group.
f. Division V shall consist of three
members, at least one of whom shall
be a woman, to be nominated and
elected by affiliated socialist
societies.
g. Division VI shall consist of four
representatives of the Labour Party
Black Socialist Society, at least two of
whom shall be women.
h. Division VII shall consist of nine
representatives of Commons
members of the PLP, at least four of
whom shall be women.
i. Division VIII shall consist of six
members of the EPLP, at least three
of whom shall be women.
j. Division IX shall consist of one
member to be nominated and elected
by members of Labour Students
k. Division X shall consist of two Labour
members from the House of Lords to
Chapter 4
i. The party will take action in all selections
Chapter 5 to encourage a greater level of

representation and participation of
groups of people in our society who are
Selections for elected underrepresented in our democratic

institutions. In particular, the party will
take positive action to ensure that
public office considerably more women and ethnic
minority candidates are selected.
F. High quality candidates
i. Labour candidates must meet minimum
standards as determined from time to
A right of Labour Party membership includes the time by the NEC. Support will be made
opportunity to select candidates for public office in an available to candidates to ensure these
area where the NEC determines that a CLP shall be standards are achieved and sustained.
established, at every level – local, regional, national and G. Inclusive processes
European. Core principles shall apply to these selections i. Selection processes must enable the
that will enable members to select Labour party inclusion and involvement of all members
candidates representative of our society who can uphold on an equal basis and take into account
the highest standards of probity and integrity in public the barriers to participation which
life. underrepresented groups may face. One
A. General rules for selections for public office member one vote (OMOV) shall be
adopted in all selections where
1. The following rules shall be observed in the reasonably practicable including those
selections of all prospective elected when an electoral college is used.
representatives:
H. Transparency in procedures
A. Rights of members participating in the
selection process i. Procedural rules and guidelines for these
selections shall endeavour to be clear,
i. All individual eligible members of the simple and easy to administer by party
Labour Party with continuous units. Support shall be provided to those
membership of at least six months within administering the selections process.
the relevant party body (who reside in
the electoral area concerned) are entitled 2. Party units shall act in accordance with guidance
to participate in selections meetings. Any that shall be issued by the NEC in the application
exceptions to this must be approved by of these rules. The NEC has the authority to
the NEC. modify these rules and any procedural rules and
guidelines as required to meet particular
B. Nominating criteria of members standing for
circumstances or to further the stated objectives
public office
and principles of these rules. Further the NEC has
i. In addition to fulfilling any statutory the power to impose candidates where it deems
requirements for the relevant public this is required by the circumstances.
office, persons wishing to stand as a
Labour candidate must have continuous B. Selection of local government candidates
membership of the party of at least 12 1. The NEC shall issue procedural rules and
months. They should also be a member of guidelines for the selection of local government
a trade union affiliated to the TUC or candidates. Local government committees,
considered by the NEC as a bona fide established in accordance with Chapter 12 of
trade union and contribute to the these rules, shall be responsible for implementing
political fund of that union. Any these guidelines in line with the rules detailed in
exceptions to these conditions must be A above and below. Local Government
approved by the NEC or by officer Committees shall agree their procedures with the
authorised by the NEC. appropriate regional director or other designated
C. Rights of nominees in the selection process officer approved by the NEC.
i. Nominees will be given a code of conduct 2. All nominees must fulfil the criteria to stand as a
which will indicate the rights a potential prospective local government candidate detailed
candidate has in a selection, based on in A.1.B above. In addition, no person who is
the principle that all eligible members disqualified as a parliamentary candidate under
shall have a fair and equal opportunity to the constitutional rules of the party, or under the
seek selection. decision of party conference, shall be nominated
D. Accountability of candidates to party or selected as a candidate for any local
government election.
i. All nominees shall undertake in writing,
in a form stipulated by the NEC, if 3. All nominees shall undertake, in writing, in a form
selected, to abide by Labour party rules stipulated by the NEC, if elected, to accept and
and standing orders. comply with the standing orders of the
appropriate Labour group and to become a
E. Candidates representative of our society
Chapter 5
Selections for elected public office Page 29 of 100
member of the national Association of Labour representation of women, ethnic minority and
Councillors. disabled members and those from manual and
4. The Local Government Committee shall determine clerical backgrounds on the national panel. Those
and endorse a panel of prospective local members who achieve the minimum standards for
government candidates in accordance with the accreditation as determined by the NEC through
procedural guidelines approved by the NEC. The an assessment process will be included on the
Local Government Committee shall make the parliamentary panel. Candidates recommended by
panel details available to the branches covering nationally affiliated organisations through their
electoral areas where selections are due to take own processes shall automatically be included on
place. the parliamentary panel subject to agreement
between the NEC and the affiliate that their
5. Individual paid-up members of the Labour Party, process sets similar criteria for accreditation.
resident in the electoral area where the selection Nominees do not have to be members of the
is taking place and a member for at least six national parliamentary panel to seek selection.
months at a date determined by the Local
Government Committee, will be invited to 5. If a CLP is represented in Parliament by a member
participate in the process of shortlisting and of the PLP:
selection of their local government candidate(s). A. If the sitting MP wishes to stand for
6. The shortlisting and selection of candidates shall reelection, a trigger ballot will be carried out
consist of a vote, by eliminating ballot, of all through party units and affiliates according to
eligible individual members of the electoral ward/ NEC guidelines. If the MP wins the trigger
division on the basis of one member one vote. ballot he/ she will, subject to NEC
endorsement, be selected as the CLP’s
7. Any disputes arising out of the non endorsement prospective parliamentary candidate.
of nominees onto the panel of prospective local
government candidates shall be referred to the B. If the MP fails to win the trigger ballot, he/
appropriate regional appeals board. Disputes she shall be eligible for nomination for
arising over the shortlisting or selection meeting selection as the prospective parliamentary
shall be submitted to the appropriate Local candidate, and s/he shall be included in the
Government Committee. The NEC shall issue shortlist of candidates from whom the
guidelines to the relevant party units and any selection shall be made.
appellant for dealing with any disputed matter. C. If the said MP is not selected as the
8. Any exceptions to rules 1-7 above can only be prospective parliamentary candidate s/he
made with the approval of the NEC or an officer shall have the right of appeal to the NEC. The
exercising the powers given to them by the NEC. appeal can only be made on the grounds that
the procedures laid down in the rules and the
C. Selection of Westminster parliamentary general provisions of the constitution, rules
candidates and standing orders have not been properly
carried out. The appeal must be received by
1. The NEC shall issue procedural rules and
the NEC by the date on which they consider
guidelines and the timetable for the selection of
endorsement of the parliamentary candidate
candidates for Westminster Parliament elections.
for the constituency.
CLPs shall be responsible for implementing these
guidelines in line with the rules detailed in A.1 D. When there is a formal announcement of a
above and following. CLPs must agree their royal proclamation to dissolve Parliament
procedures and timetable with the appropriate before the trigger ballot or the constituency
regional director or other designated officer selection meeting(s) have been held, the
approved by the NEC. provisions of this clause (other than this
paragraph) shall be suspended and the said
2. All nominees must fulfil the criteria to stand as a
MP shall be reselected as the prospective
parliamentary candidate detailed in A.1.B above.
parliamentary candidate, subject to NEC
In addition, no person who has been disqualified
endorsement.
as a local government candidate under the rules
of the party or by the decision of party E. If the MP has intimated her or his intention to
conference shall be eligible for nomination or retire, the provisions of this clause shall not
selection as a parliamentary candidate. Members apply.
of the European Parliament, Members of the 6. In all circumstances (ie where there is no MP,
Scottish parliament and Members of the National where the MP has announced s/he is retiring or
Assembly for Wales may seek nomination as where the MP is putting themselves forward for
Labour candidates for the Westminster re-selection but has failed to win the trigger
Parliament but only with the express permission ballot) the CLP Shortlisting Committee shall draw
of the NEC whose decision shall be final. up a shortlist of interested candidates to present
3. All nominees shall undertake, if elected, to accept to all members of the CLP who are eligible to vote
and comply with the standing orders of the PLP. in accordance with rule A.1.A above.
4. The NEC shall establish a national parliamentary 7. The selection of candidates shall consist of a
panel of candidates. Training will be made vote, by eliminating ballot, of all eligible individual
available to interested nominees and targeted members of the constituency on the basis of one
action will be taken to increase the member one vote.
Chapter 5
8. NEC Endorsement conference be eligible for nomination or selection

A. The selection of a parliamentary candidate as a parliamentary candidate.
shall not be regarded as completed until the 3. All nominees shall undertake, if elected, to accept
name of the member selected has been placed and comply with the standing orders of the EPLP.
before a meeting of the NEC and her or his 4. The NEC shall establish a European parliamentary
selection has been endorsed. Until such panel of candidates. Training will be made
endorsement has been received the member available to interested nominees and targeted
shall not be introduced to the public as a action will be taken to increase the
prospective candidate. Where successful representation of women, ethnic minority and
candidates are not members of the national disabled members and those from manual and
recommended panel or if in the case of a clerical backgrounds on the national panel. Those
sitting MP a referral from the Whips office is members who achieve the minimum standards for
received, there should, however, be an accreditation as determined by the NEC through
endorsement interview in each case before a an assessment process will be included on the
recommendation is made to the NEC. parliamentary panel. Candidates recommended by
B. If the NEC is satisfied that there is prima facie nationally affiliated organisations through their
evidence of a breach of rules by an individual, own processes shall automatically be included on
the NEC shall have the right after such the parliamentary panel subject to agreement
investigations and interviews with the between the NEC and the affiliate that their
individual as the NEC shall consider process sets similar criteria for accreditation.
reasonably practicable and appropriate to 5. The regional boards/ national executives shall
decline to endorse or, where already appoint a selections board representative of local
endorsed, rescind endorsement of such CLPs and affiliated organisations as determined
individual as a prospective parliamentary by the NEC. This selections board will administer
candidate. the processes for the reselection of Members of
9. A CLP, having completed the selection of its European Parliament (MEPs) by means of a ballot
prospective parliamentary candidate according to of affiliated organisations and CLPs. MEPS who
these rules, shall accept responsibility for the receive the support of at least 50% of the
election expenses of the candidate so selected. affiliated organisations/ CLPs casting votes in
Acceptance of such financial responsibility shall such a ballot will comprise the shortlist of re-
become binding on the CLP concerned upon NEC selected MEPs. Any MEPs who fail to receive 50%
endorsement of the candidature. support will have the same rights to nomination
10. The normal procedure may be dispensed with by as other members. The selections board will
the NEC where no valid nominations are received, subsequently seek nominations and determine a
or when an emergency arises, or when the NEC panel of new candidates for the vacant seats in
are of the opinion that the interests of the party the region (or Scotland and Wales) in accordance
would be best served by the suspension of the with the procedural guidelines approved by the
procedures issued by the NEC. NEC.
11. Disputes arising out of the selection procedure 6. The selections board shall present the shortlist of
shall be considered by an officer appointed by the re-selected MEPs and the shortlist of interested
NEC who shall report to them. The NEC’s decision new candidates for the vacant seats to present to
on that report shall be final and binding on all all members in the regional/ national electoral
parties for all purposes. area who are eligible to vote in accordance with
rule A.1.A above.
12. Any exceptions to rules 1-11 above can only be
made with the approval of the NEC or an officer 7. All eligible individual members will determine by a
exercising the powers given to them by the NEC. postal ballot (by simple preference voting), the
ranking of the candidates. This would establish
D. Selection of European parliamentary the order for each of the lists.
candidates 8. The selection of a European parliamentary
1. The NEC shall issue procedural guidelines and the candidate shall not be regarded as completed
timetable for the selection of candidates for until the name of the member selected has been
European elections. Regional boards and Scottish placed before a meeting of the NEC and her or his
and Welsh executives shall be responsible for selection has been endorsed. Until such
implementing these guidelines in line with the endorsement has been received the member shall
rules detailed in A.1 above and below. Regional/ not be introduced to the public as a prospective
national bodies must agree their procedures and candidate.
timetable with a designated officer approved by 9. A region (or Scotland and Wales), having
the NEC. completed the selection of its prospective
2. All nominees must fulfil the criteria to stand as a European parliamentary candidate according to
European parliamentary candidate detailed in these rules, shall accept responsibility for the
A.1.B above. In addition, no person who has been election expenses of the candidate so selected.
disqualified as a local government candidate or Acceptance of such financial responsibility shall
Westminster parliamentary candidate under the become binding on the region/ nation concerned
rules of the party or by the decision of party upon NEC endorsement of the candidature.
Chapter 5
10. The normal procedure may be dispensed with by

the NEC where no valid nominations are received,
or when an emergency arises, or when the NEC
are of the opinion that the interests of the party
would be best served by the suspension of the
procedures issued by the NEC.
11. Disputes arising out of the selection procedure
shall be considered by an officer appointed by the
NEC who shall report to them. The NEC’s decision
on that report shall be final and binding on all
parties for all purposes.
12. Any exceptions to rules 1-11 above can only be
made with the approval of the NEC or an officer
exercising the powers given to them by the NEC.
E. Selection of candidates for devolved
institutions
1. With respect to selections for candidates for the
Scottish Parliament or Welsh Assembly, the NEC
shall draw up a detailed procedural document in
consultation with the Scottish or Welsh Executive
Committee as appropriate, based on principles
detailed in A above and C above.
2. The NEC shall also draw up detailed procedural
guidance with respect to selections for the
Greater London Authority or other such regional
body in England, based on principles detailed in A
above. Regional selections boards, representative
of the given area and reflecting a balance of CLPs
and affiliates will administer the process.
Regional/ national bodies must agree their
procedures and timetable with a designated
officer approved by the NEC.
3. The NEC shall also draw up detailed procedural
guidance with respect to selections for directly
elected leaders of regional administrations and
local authorities based on principles detailed in A
above. Regional (or Scottish or Welsh) selections
board, representative of the given area and
reflecting a balance of CLPs and affiliates, will
also administer these processes.
4. Any exceptions to rules 1–3 above can only be
made with the approval of the NEC or an officer
exercising the powers given to them by the NEC.
Chapter 5
the subject of such warning being called into
Chapter 6 question following any subsequent exercise

by the NEC of its powers under sub-clauses A
above and B above, and both the fact of the
Disciplinary rules issue of such warning and the conduct that is

the subject of the warning may be used in the
evidence referred to the National
Constitutional Committee.
2. When a person applies for re-admission to the
party following an expulsion by the NCC on
A. National action by the party whatever basis or by automatic exclusion under
Chapter 2 A.4 above of the membership rules, the
1. The NEC shall take such disciplinary measures as application shall be submitted to the NEC for
it feels necessary to ensure that all party consideration and decision. Such applications shall
members and officers conform to the not normally be considered by the NEC until a
constitution, rules and standing orders of the minimum of five years has elapsed. The decision
party. of the NEC shall be binding on the individual
Such powers shall include: concerned and on the CLP relevant to the
A. In relation to any alleged breach of the application.
constitution, rules or standing orders of the
3. A ‘suspension’ of a member whether by the NEC in
party by an individual member or members of pursuance of 1 above or by the NCC in imposing a
the party, the NEC may, pending the final
disciplinary penalty, unless otherwise defined by
outcome of any investigation and charges (if
that decision, shall require the membership rights
any), suspend that individual or individuals of the individual member concerned to be
from office or representation of the party
confined to participation in their own branch
notwithstanding the fact that the individual
meetings and activities as an ordinary member
concerned has been or may be eligible to be
only and in ballots of all individual members
selected as a candidate in any election or by- where applicable. A suspended member shall not
election. The General Secretary or other be eligible to seek any office in the party, nor
national officer shall investigate and report to
shall s/he be eligible for nomination to any panel
the NEC on such investigation. Upon such
of prospective candidates nor to represent the
report being submitted, the NEC may instruct party in any position at any level.
the General Secretary or other national officer
to formulate charges against the individual or B. Action by CLPs
individuals concerned and present such 1. It shall be the duty of the General Committee of a
charges to the National Constitutional CLP to take all necessary steps to enforce the
Committee for determination in accordance constitution, standing orders and rules of the
with their rules. Labour Party within its constituency and to
B. In relation to any alleged breach of Labour safeguard the programme, policy and principles of
group rules and standing orders by a group the party within its constituency. A CLP shall take
member or members, the NEC may, pending such action as it deems necessary for such
the final outcome of any investigation and purposes in accordance with the following
charges (if any), suspend that individual or provisions:
individuals from the group in question. The A. Any complaint or allegation made of breach of
General Secretary or other national officer the constitution, rules or standing orders of
shall investigate and report to the NEC on the party shall be made in writing to the
such investigation. Upon such report being secretary of the CLP either by a party branch,
submitted, the NEC may instruct the General or by an organisation affiliated to that party,
Secretary or other national officer to or by a member of the General Committee.
formulate charges against the individual or Such complaint or allegation shall state that
individuals concerned and present such the complainant wishes disciplinary action to
charges to the National Constitutional be considered.
Committee for determination in accordance
with their rules. B. Upon such complaint being made, the
secretary shall refer it to the Executive
C. Where in the opinion of the NEC there are Committee of the CLP who shall decide by
circumstances which might warrant the use of resolution whether the complaint calls for
its powers under sub-clauses A above and B investigation.
above, the NEC may issue written warnings to
any individual member of the party drawing C. The secretary shall immediately following the
attention to the conduct which in the opinion decision of the Executive Committee contact
of the NEC is either incompatible with the regional office of the party to ensure the
continued membership of the party or may be correct implementation of the disciplinary
in, or may lead to, a breach of the constitution, procedures at all stages, including the
rules or standing orders of the party. The formulation of any charges.
issue of any written warning under this sub- D. The Executive Committee resolution shall be
clause shall not prevent the conduct that is reported to the General Committee which shall
Chapter 6
Disciplinary rules Page 33 of 100
decide whether to authorize the otherwise and having regard to their

recommended investigation. procedural guidelines. The decision of the
E. Any person proposed to be the subject of such National Constitutional Committee as to
an investigation shall reside or be registered whether in its opinion there is a case to
as an elector within the constituency or shall answer, or whether in its opinion the charges
have been resident or registered as an elector are proved or not proved, and any disciplinary
within the constituency at the time of the action to be imposed shall be final.
actions subject to complaint. If that person is
a member of the General or Executive
Committees s/he shall have full rights to
participate and vote in the meetings of the
committee of which s/he is a member when
this matter is considered.
F. Where the General Committee so authorises
an investigation the Executive Committee
shall appoint three of its members to act as
‘investigators’. None of these investigators
shall be a party to or a subject of the original
complaint.
G. The ‘investigators’ shall conduct their
investigation of the complaint(s) or
allegation(s) in such a matter as they see fit,
including the receipt of written evidence from
the complainant(s), those complained against
and from other party members.
H. The ‘investigators’ shall decide whether or not
a prima facie case can be made out and, if so,
shall formulate a charge or charges and shall
report to the General Committee. Their report
to the General Committee shall be limited to
whether they have found a prima facie case
and, if so, the proposed charge or charges. The
charge must specify which rule(s) of the party
have been breached. The General Committee
shall decide at this stage which of the
proposed charges, if any, are to be preferred.
I. None of the investigators shall participate in
or vote at the General Committee at this
stage, except that one member of the
investigating team only shall present the
report of the investigators and answer
questions thereupon but still not vote.
J. If the General Committee decides that a
charge or charges should be preferred, it shall
instruct the investigators to prefer these
charges and accompanying evidence together
with, if so decided, a recommendation for
disciplinary action. The investigators shall
appoint one of their number to act as ‘the
presenter’ of the case which shall be preferred
to the national constitutional committee of
the party for determination. All the evidence
and documentation to be relied on in
presenting the case must accompany the
charges to be preferred.
K. The charges shall be forwarded to the
secretary of the National Constitutional
Committee at the head office of the party
who shall liaise with the presenter and the
hair of the committee to arrange for the case
to be brought before the committee or a panel
thereof and for dates and venues for a
hearing if appropriate. The National
Constitutional Committee of the party shall
determine the charges, by hearing or
Chapter 6
Disciplinary rules Page 34 of 100
Section C
Rules for units of party

organisation
Page 35 of 100
to the National Policy Forum for inclusion in
Chapter 7 the party programme.
Clause III.
Affiliated organisations
Rules for CLPs 1. Organisations may affiliate to the party at
constituency level if they fall within the following
categories:
A. trade unions or branches thereof affiliated to
the Trade Union Congress or considered by
Clause I. the NEC to be bona fide trade unions affiliated
Name to the party nationally. Where provided by the
structure of an affiliated organisation, sub-
The { } Constituency Labour Party, hereinafter named sections of branches may affiliate separately
‘this CLP’ at the discretion of the regional director of
Clause II. the party in agreement with the appropriate
Aims and values authority of the affiliated trade union
B. co-operative societies, branches of the
1. National
Cooperative Party and other co-operative
A. The aims and values of the Labour Party as organisations
outlined in Chapter 1 Clause IV above of the
C. branches of those socialist societies affiliated
national constitutional rules shall apply to this
to the Labour Party nationally
CLP.
D. other organisations or branches thereof which
2. Constituency
in the opinion of the NEC are deemed eligible
A. To unite the forces of Labour within the for affiliation.
constituency and to ensure the establishment
2. Each affiliated organisation must: accept the
of, and to keep in active operation, branches
programme, principles and policy of the party;
throughout the constituency and to co-
agree to conform to the constitution, rules and
ordinate their activities.
standing orders of the party; have members who
B. To secure the return of Labour are registered as electors within the
representatives to Parliament and local constituency.
government bodies, by promoting the policies
and principles of the Labour Party throughout Clause IV.
the constituency with a view to increasing the Affiliation fees
party’s influence within the local community 1. Affiliation fees and contributions payable to this
and securing support and membership from it. CLP shall be:
C. To promote the policies of the Labour Party A. trade unions, branches of trade unions,
within the constituency by formulating a branches of socialist societies and other
development action plan for the party in the organisations; 6p per annum per member
area and to ensure its adoption and resident or registered as an elector within the
implementation by all party units. constituency, with a minimum payment of £6
D. To provide the opportunity for all individual per branch
members of the party within the constituency B. co-operative societies and other cooperative
to contribute to the development of the aims organisations on the basis agreed between
and policies by ensuring that a full range of this CLP and the respective co-operative
party activities are available to them, organisation, though as a minimum on the
including local policy forums, and that they same basis as other affiliated organisations
may participate fully in discussion to broaden
the political education of members of the C. the Co-operative Party in accordance with the
party and to increase their influence over the agreement between the Labour Party and the
formulation of the party programme. Co-operative Union Limited currently in force
E. To establish local policy forums, possibly in co- D. all affiliation fees shall be paid not later than
operation with neighbouring CLPs, as 31 December of the relevant year.
authorised by and with the support of the Clause V.
appropriate regional director operating to
Individual membership
guidelines produced by the NEC. The
constitution of the party places an obligation 1. The conditions of membership for, method of
on CLPs to work in pursuit of our aims with enrolment of, and level of subscription payable by
trade unions, co-operative societies and other individual members of the party within this
affiliated organisations, and it must consult its constituency shall be as laid down in the
members, elected representatives, affiliated membership rules of the party in Chapter 2 .
organisations, and, where practicable, the 2. The constitutional rights of individual members of
wider community in which it is based on policy the party within this constituency shall operate
making initiatives which are to be forwarded only in the branch in which they are registered as
electors and reside or, exceptionally if they are
Chapter 7
Rules for CLPs Page 36 of 100
not eligible to be registered to vote, in which they forums and any other regulations approved by
reside only. the NEC.
3. Women members in this CLP shall, if they so 5. There shall be established a Campaign Committee
desire, be organised into a women’s forum acting to co-ordinate the public activity of this CLP.
in accordance with regulations sanctioned by the A. The Campaign Committee, which shall be a
NEC and on boundaries approved by the regional working committee, shall comprise campaign
director. organisers from the party branches and other
4. Individual members of the party between 15 members as appropriate. The chair and
years and 26 years of age inclusive shall, if they treasurer of this CLP and the Member of
so desire, be organised in branches of Young Parliament where appropriate and/ or the
Labour acting in accordance with regulations parliamentary candidate when selected and
sanctioned by the NEC and on boundaries her/ his agent when appointed, shall be ex-
approved by the regional director. officio members of the Campaign Committee.
Clause VI. B. The Campaign Committee shall elect a

campaign co-ordinator who, as a functional
Method of organisation
officer of this CLP, shall: co-ordinate
1. General constituency-wide campaigns; liaise with head
A. There shall be established throughout the office and either Scottish Labour, Wales
constituency branches on such basis as Labour or their English regional office, as the
decided by the General Committee and case may be, in the promotion of the party’s
approved by the National Executive campaigns; and liaise with other election
Committee. Branch boundaries shall as far as agents as appropriate over the election
possible follow local government boundaries. campaign strategy at local council, devolved
B. A branch established in accordance with this institutions, Westminster and European
rule shall consist only of those individual Parliament level.
members of the party within this CLP who C. Where the campaign co-ordinator is not the
reside or are registered as electors within the election agent, the Campaign Committee shall
area covered by the branch. ensure that an election agent is appointed to
C. Branches shall operate in accordance with the be responsible for all local elections within the
rules for Labour Party branches and any other area of the CLP. Where the CLP covers only
regulations approved by the NEC. In particular, part of the council area, the agent shall liaise
a branch shall maintain the necessary with other agents within that council area in
machinery for elections within its area. A order to ensure a unified and co-ordinated
branch may undertake other activities to campaign. For Westminster parliamentary
promote the party in its area and the elections and elections to the Scottish
involvement of its individual members in line Parliament or Welsh Assembly, the committee
with the development action plan agreed for should seek to appoint an election agent at
this constituency. The public activities of a the earliest opportunity in consultation with
branch shall be approved by the Executive the prospective candidate and appropriate
Committee of this CLP. regional director and this appointment shall be
subject to the approval of the NEC.
D. Where the General Committee considers it
desirable there may be established a Clause VII.
coordinating organisation covering more than Management
one branch subject to the approval of the
1. The management of this CLP shall be in the hands
regional office.
of an Executive Committee which shall be
E. The General Committee may seek approval appointed by and report to a General Committee
from the NEC to pilot new methods of consisting of delegates elected by:
organisation to meet its objectives as part of
A. affiliated organisations, in accordance with
an agreed development plan that continues to Clause III of these rules. Each affiliated
meet this party’s constitutional obligations.
organisation may have a maximum of five
The NEC encourages requests by a CLP for all
delegates to this CLP, except that the Scottish
member meetings as its method of
General Secretary, Welsh General Secretary or
organisation.
English regional director with the approval of
2. There may be established a women’s forum to co- the NEC may vary this limit in agreement with
ordinate work among women members, acting in the affiliated organisation where it has more
accordance with the rules for women’s forums than 1,000 members resident in the
and any other regulations approved by the NEC. constituency
3. There may be established workplace branches B. branches established in accordance with
covering one or more CLPs, acting in accordance Clause VI of these rules together with the
with rules sanctioned by the NEC. secretaries who shall be ex-officio members
4. There may be established an ethnic minorities with voting power. Branch parties with three
forum to co-ordinate work among Black, Asian, or more members under the age of 23 may
Minority Ethnic (BAME) members, acting in elect from among them an additional youth
accordance with the rules for ethnic minorities delegate
Chapter 7
C. women’s forum where established ii. The General Committee and the
D. workplace branches where established. Executive Committee shall procure that
all legal title to property leasehold and
E. ethnic minorities forum where established.
freehold presently held for the CLP shall
2. The basis of representation on the General forthwith be transferred to Labour Party
Committee shall be as follows: {here insert the Nominees Limited to be held by it as
basis of representation to the General Committee Trustee for the relevant Constituency
as approved by the NEC} provided that: Labour Party upon the standard terms of
A. only a member in respect of whom an Trust from time to time approved by the
affiliation fee or a membership fee for the full NEC.
year or period of membership as the case may 5. The General Committee shall, but only with the
be has been paid to this CLP for the previous specific prior approval in writing of the NEC and
year or part thereof to 31 December may be on such terms and conditions as shall be approved
counted in calculating the number of by the NEC, have the power to employ staff on
delegates behalf of the party. Such power may also be
B. a party unit with fewer than ten members exercised by the Executive Committee or by
shall be represented by not more than one officers of the General Committee if so authorised
delegate whether the secretary or any other by the General Committee. In all such
member circumstances, the primary responsibility for
C. members in arrears shall not be counted when meeting financial and other obligations in respect
establishing the number of delegates from of such employees shall be borne by the CLP.
party branches to the General Committee Clause VIII.
D. an organisation during the year in which it is Conditions for appointment of delegates to this
affiliated or a party unit during the year in CLP
which it is established shall be entitled to
1. Every delegate must be an individual member of
appoint delegates to attend and participate in
the Labour Party in this CLP as described in the
meetings of the General Committee
membership rules.
subsequent to the annual meeting, the
number of delegates being calculated on the 2. Delegates from branches must reside within the
basis of the affiliation fee or membership fees branch appointing them. Delegates from affiliated
paid in the said year. organisations must be bona fide members or paid
permanent officials of the organisation
3. This CLP adopts the rules for CLPs and branches
and such amendments thereto as may be agreed appointing them.
by party conference or made by the NEC in 3. No person shall act as a delegate for more than
accordance with the powers conferred upon it one organisation/ party unit.
under Chapter 1 Clause X of the constitutional 4. Delegates must either reside or be registered as
rules. This CLP shall have power to make electors in the constituency.
alterations, amendments or deletions in these
5. Members of Parliament may be appointed as
rules, subject to the approval in writing of the
delegates to the General Committee in the
NEC and providing that such changes do not
constituency they represent, provided they fulfil
contravene the spirit and intention of the rules as
the criteria above. They may not be elected to or
adopted by party conference or alter the party
serve on the Executive Committee, or hold any
objects, basis or condition of affiliated and
office within such CLP. MPs shall have the right to
individual membership, or vary the procedure for
receive notice of, and to attend Executive and
the selection of parliamentary candidates (other
General Committee meetings of, the CLP they
than as provided for in the rules) or effect a
represent and report on their work.
change in the relationship of this CLP with the
national party. 6. The term of office of a delegate shall commence
with the opening of the annual meeting of this
4. The General Committee shall, but only with the
CLP following their appointment or the date of
specific prior approval in writing of the NEC, have
their appointment if after the annual meeting.
the power to enter into property-related
Unless terminated by their resignation, death or
transactions on behalf of the party. Such power
for any other reason by the affiliated organisation
may also be exercised by the Executive
or party unit which appointed them, the term of
Committee, or by officers of the General
office of a delegate shall extend to the conclusion
Committee, if so authorised by the General
of the next following annual meeting of this CLP
Committee.
but they shall not be entitled to attend except as
i. NEC approval will be conditional in all members of the Executive Committee of this CLP
cases upon legal title to the property to tender reports to that meeting but not to vote
being vested in Labour Party Nominees unless reappointed as delegates for the
Limited as Trustee for the relevant appropriate year. All delegates who qualify under
Constituency Labour Party or in such these conditions may be re-appointed. It shall be
other Trustee for the relevant the duty of the secretary of this CLP to invite
Constituency Labour Party as the NEC affiliated organisations and party units to elect
may appoint. their delegates prior to and in time to be called to
the annual meeting and to assist this the
Chapter 7
Executive Committee may set a reasonable Elections and Referendums Act 2000 in respect
deadline for the appointment of delegates for of donation reporting, the filing of accounts and,
that meeting. if applicable, the auditing of accounts, and shall
be the registered treasurer of the accounting
Clause IX. unit, as notified by party head office to the
Officers Electoral Commission.
1. The officers of this CLP, the Executive 7. The CLP shall also nominate one of its officers –
Committee, functional officers and two auditors which should, unless there are exceptional
shall be elected at the annual meeting of the circumstances, be the CLP Chair – to be the
General Committee and shall continue in office registered deputy treasurer of the accounting
until replaced or re-appointed. Officers, auditors, unit, as notified by party head office to the
functional officers and members of the Executive Electoral Commission.
Committee must be duly appointed delegates to
8. The CLP Secretary shall notify party head office
the General Committee.
immediately in the event of the resignation or
2. The officers of this CLP shall be; chair, vice-chair, replacement of the treasurer or the deputy
vice-chair/ membership, secretary, treasurer, treasurer, so that the party can meet its statutory
women’s officer, youth/ student officer and responsibility to inform the Electoral Commission
ethnic minorities officer. The women’s officer and of any such changes.
at least three more of the other full officers of
this CLP shall be women. The team of officers Clause X.
shall provide a strategic lead for the development Meetings of the General Committee
of the party in the constituency, along with the 1. Ordinary Meetings
prospective parliamentary candidate (see Clause
XIV below) who shall, when endorsed by the A. The annual meeting of the General Committee
shall be held in { } of each year or, in the event
National Executive Committee, have the right to
of such meeting not being held in that month
attend meetings of the General and Executive
for any reason, as soon thereafter as possible.
Committees and branches in this CLP to report on
her/ his work. B. Affiliation fees due to this party for the
previous year ended 31 December must have
3. In addition there may be appointed functional
been paid to this party a clear 35 days before
officers, including a campaign co-ordinator, a
the date of the annual meeting.
political education and training officer, an
information technology officer, a disability officer, C. Twenty eight days’ notice of an annual
a trade union liaison officer and a fundraising meeting shall be given to all affiliated
officer who may attend meetings of the organisations and party units entitled to
Executive Committee without voting power. The appoint delegates to the General Committee
agent for the parliamentary candidate may also of this CLP.
attend Executive Committee meetings without D. Seven days’ notice of an annual meeting shall
voting power. be given to delegates appointed in due time.
4. The Executive Committee shall consist of the 2. Special Meetings
officers and { } members upon such proportionate A. Special meetings of the General Committee
basis of the whole membership as this CLP may may be called at the discretion of the
decide, subject to the approval of the NEC. Where Executive Committee and shall be called on
a constituency plan agreement has been entered the written request of at least one third of the
into by this CLP and an organisation affiliated to affiliated organizations and party units
the party nationally and approved by the NEC, the entitled to send delegates to this CLP.
affiliated organisation concerned may appoint a
member of this CLP to the Executive Committee B. Seven days’ notice of a special meeting shall
to represent their interest: this member shall be be given to delegates except in cases of
an ex-officio member with voting powers of both emergency, when only business of immediate
executive and General Committees. The importance shall be transacted.
Executive Committee shall comprise {insert here 3. Ordinary meetings of the General Committee shall
the make-up as approved by the NEC}. be held at such intervals as laid down in the
5. The Executive Committee shall meet as required standing orders of this CLP or as may be
and be responsible for reviewing the determined by resolution of the General
implementation of the development action plan Committee.
and supervising the work of the branches and 4. Seven days’ notice of General Committee
other party units in the constituency. The meetings shall be given to delegates.
Executive Committee shall also deal with as much 5. A notice calling an annual, special or ordinary
of the routine business of this CLP as possible to meeting of the General Committee shall state as
ensure that the General Committee can devote its far as possible the business to be transacted.
time to the discussion of policy and party
6. Any notice required to be given under these rules
objectives for the constituency.
shall be in writing to be delivered by post or by
6. The treasurer shall be responsible for ensuring hand to the last address notified in writing to the
the CLP meets its legal and financial secretary of this CLP. Notices to be sent to
responsibilities under the Political Parties,
Chapter 7
affiliated organisations and party units shall be their delegates to other party bodies (where
addressed to the secretary thereof. delegate entitlement is more than one) shall be
7. Membership and finance women.
A. Following any meeting at which new members 4. This CLP and units of this CLP shall not enter into
are endorsed, the membership secretary shall affiliation with or give support, financially or
submit on request a list of such members to otherwise, to any political party or organisation
the head or regional office of the party. (or ancillary or subsidiary body thereto) declared
by party conference or by the NEC in pursuance of
B. Following each annual meeting of this CLP the
conference decisions to be ineligible for affiliation
secretary shall forward a copy of the
to the party. Nor shall they give any such support
constituency annual report accompanied by
to individuals ineligible for membership of the
details of this CLP’s constituency and branch
party.
accounts and such other information as may
be requested by the NEC in the format 5. This CLP shall co-operate with the NEC of the
required by head office and in compliance party in conducting a ballot of all eligible
with the CLP’s legal and financial individual members for the selection of
responsibilities under the Political Parties, parliamentary candidates, the election of the
Elections and Referendums Act 2000. leader and deputy leader of the Labour Party, the
national treasurer and auditors, and the
Clause XI. appropriate sections of the National Executive,
The Party Conference and National Constitutional Committees. Such
1. Subject to the conditions laid down in the rules of ballots to be conducted in accordance with
party conference and the constitutional rules of guidelines laid down by the NEC and subject to
the party, this CLP may appoint to any party the provisions of the procedural rules in chapter 4
conference convened under clause VI of the of the national rules.
national rules of the party, one delegate for the 6. In the event of this CLP being dissolved or
first 749 eligible members, or part thereof, and a ceasing to exist for any reason, its assets (after
further delegate for each additional 250 eligible payment of outstanding liabilities) shall be
members, or part thereof. Eligible members shall transferred to the NEC of the party.
be as defined in Clause VII.2.A above of these 7. This CLP shall co-operate fully with the NEC in
rules. respect of its legal and financial obligations under
2. When appointing their delegate(s) this CLP shall the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums
seek to increase the representation of women at Act 2000. Should this CLP fail to co-operate with
conference, by ensuring that at least every the national party with regard to its obligations
second delegate shall be a woman; where only under the act, the NEC will not hesitate to take
one delegate is appointed this must be a woman appropriate disciplinary action against individual
at least in every other year. members and/or suspend this CLP.
3. Where the individual women’s membership within Clause XIII.
this CLP is 400 or more, an additional woman
Disciplinary
delegate may be appointed.
It shall be the duty of the General Committee of this CLP
4. Where the individual Young Labour membership
to take all necessary steps to enforce the constitution,
within this CLP is 100 or more, an additional
standing orders and rules of the Labour Party within this
delegate under the age of 23 may be appointed.
constituency and to safeguard the programme, policy
5. This CLP may appoint a delegate in addition to its and principles of the party within this constituency. This
above entitlement if one of its duly appointed CLP shall take such action as it deems necessary for such
delegates is the national treasurer, a member of purposes in accordance with the provisions laid out in
the National Executive Committee, member of the the disciplinary rules, contained in Chapter 6 above of
Conference Arrangements Committee, or a the national rules.
member of the National Constitutional Committee
due for re-election that year. Clause XIV.
Parliamentary candidates
Clause XII.
The Labour Party’s parliamentary candidate for this
Duties of the General Committee constituency shall be selected in accordance with the
1. The general provisions of the constitution, rules rules for selection of parliamentary candidates laid down
and standing orders of the Labour Party shall in Chapter 5 of the national rules and in the selection
apply to this CLP and the General Committee has guidelines appended thereto, along with any other
a duty to act within and uphold such provisions. regulations approved by the NEC.
2. The General Committee shall be responsible for
Clause XV.
establishing objectives for the party in the
constituency through political debate and policy Local government candidates
discussion, setting targets for development of Local government candidates shall be selected in
party organisation and campaigning in the area accordance with the rules for selection of local
and promoting links with the wider community. government candidates laid down in Chapter 5 of the
3. It shall be the duty of the General Committee of national rules and in the selection guidelines appended
this CLP to ensure that at least 50 per cent of
Chapter 7
thereto along with any other regulations approved by

the NEC.
Clause XVI.
Amendment to rules
These rules, or any part thereof, may be amended,
altered or additions made thereto by resolution carried at
an annual meeting of the General Committee by a vote
of two thirds of delegates present, subject to the
approval of the NEC Clause VII.3 above. The provisions of
the model procedural rules for party meetings shall apply
to this CLP with such local additions and modifications as
may be approved by, as applicable, the Scottish General
Secretary, Welsh General Secretary or regional director of
the party on behalf of the NEC.
Chapter 7
Chapter 7a
Amendments to CLP
rules where
constituency and
district/ county borough
boundaries are
coterminous
Clause I
Aims and values
Add new subsection:
II.3 To ensure the establishment of a Labour group on
the council in accordance with the standing orders for
Labour groups laid down in Chapter 13 of the national
rules of the party.
Clause VII
Management
Add at end of subsection VII.1:
(e) together with the leader and secretary of the Labour
group who shall be ex-officio members of the General
Committee with voting powers.
Clause IX
Officers
Add after ‘officers’ in line 2 of subsection IX.4:
the leader and secretary of the Labour group,
Clause XII
Duties of the General Committee
Add new subsection:
XII.8 The electoral policy and programme for the
{appropriate local authority} elections shall be
determined by the General Committee of this party in
consultation with the Labour group.
Chapter 7
Clause V.
Chapter 8 Meetings
1. The annual meeting of this branch shall be held in
{January} of each year. In the event of the annual
Rules for branches meeting not being held in that month for any
reason it shall be held as soon thereafter as
possible.
2. Fourteen days’ notice of the annual meeting shall
be given to the CLP and to all individual members
in this branch.
Clause I.
3. This branch shall raise and hold funds to support
Name activities within the objects of this branch. The
The { } Branch of the { } Constituency Labour Party (this financial year of this branch shall end on 31
branch) December each year. A copy of the audited
financial statement and the annual report of this
Clause II.
branch shall be forwarded to the CLP prior to its
Objects annual general meeting.
1. The objects of this branch shall be to provide an 4. Delegates to the General Committee of the CLP
opportunity for members to participate in the shall be elected at the annual meeting, but may
activities of the Labour Party within its area; to be changed as necessary at subsequent ordinary
maintain the necessary machinery for elections; meetings. A minimum quota of 50 per cent
to undertake propaganda and other activities women shall apply to these elected delegates.
with the approval of the Executive Committee of Unless otherwise decided, the term of a General
the CLP and in line with its agreed development Committee delegate elected at the annual
action plan. meeting shall commence at the annual general
2. This branch shall cover such area as may be meeting of the CLP.
decided by the CLP and approved by the NEC in 5. Where there are three or more members under
accordance with Chapter 7 Clause VI.1 above of the age of 23, this branch may appoint one of
the CLP’s rules. them as an additional Young Labour delegate to
Clause III. the CLP’s General Committee.
Membership 6. Ordinary meetings shall be held at such intervals
and on such notice as may be laid down in the
1. Membership shall consist only of those individual
standing orders, or as determined by this branch
members of the Labour Party who are registered
from time to time. Special meetings may be called
as electors in the area covered by this branch
at the discretion of the branch executive or at the
with exceptionally those individual members who
written request of 20 per cent of the members.
are not eligible to be registered to vote but who
reside in the area. 7. Notice of ordinary and special meetings shall be
sent to all members a minimum of seven days in
2. The conditions of membership for, method of
advance.
enrolment of, and level of subscription payable by
individual members in this branch shall be as laid Clause VI.
down in the membership rules of the Labour Party Local government candidates
(Chapter 2 ).
Local government candidates shall be selected in
3. A proportion of members’ subscriptions may be accordance with the rules for selection of local
allocated to this branch as determined by the CLP government candidates laid down in the national rules of
General Committee, or by the Executive the party and in the selection guidelines appended
Committee if given such delegated authority by thereto along with any other regulations approved by
the General Committee. the NEC (Chapter 5 ).
Clause IV. Clause VII.
Officers and Executive Committee Miscellaneous
1. The officers of this branch shall be chair, vice 1. The general provisions of the constitution and
chair, secretary and treasurer. At least two of the rules of the Labour Party shall apply to this
officers shall be women. The branch shall appoint branch.
two auditors and other functional officers as
required. 2. This branch shall not enter into affiliation or give
support financially or otherwise to any political
2. The branch executive shall consist of the officers party or organisation ancillary or subsidiary
and, if required, not more than four other thereto declared ineligible for affiliation to the
members. party by the annual party conference or by the
3. Elections for these posts shall be held at the National Executive Committee.
annual meeting. 3. It shall be the duty of this branch to take all
necessary steps to safeguard the constitution,
programme and principles of the Labour Party
within its area. Any decision taken under this
Chapter 8
Rules for branches Page 43 of 100
clause proposing the expulsion or exclusion of

any individual from membership shall be in the
form of a recommendation to the CLP which shall
determine the matter in accordance with the
disciplinary procedures laid out in the national
rules of the Labour Party (see Chapter 6 ).
4. For the avoidance of doubt, the Labour Party
Financial Scheme recognises the assets of this
branch as the assets of { } CLP, of which they are
a constituent part. It shall be the duty of this
branch to co-operate with the CLP regarding the
CLP’s obligations under the Political Parties,
Elections and Referendums Act 2000. Should this
branch fail to co-operate with the CLP, the NEC
will not hesitate to take appropriate disciplinary
action against individual members &/or suspend
this branch. The Officers of the Branch shall use
all reasonable endeavours to procure that legal
title to any leasehold and freehold property
presently held by or in trust for the Branch by
individual Trustees shall be transferred forthwith
to Labour Party Nominees Limited to be held by it
as Trustee for the relevant Constituency Labour
Party upon the standard terms of Trust from time
to time approved by the NEC.
5. This branch shall not have the power to enter into
property-related transactions or to employ staff
6. Should this branch be dissolved or cease to exist
for any reason its assets, after the payment of
any outstanding liabilities, shall be transferred to
the CLP.
7. This branch shall adopt standing orders and may
make such changes in the procedural rules and
these rules as may be agreed by the CLP and, as
applicable, the Scottish General Secretary, Welsh
General Secretary or regional director of the
party. Such changes shall not contravene the
spirit or intention of the model rules as accepted
by party conference or the NEC.
Chapter 8
Rules for branches Page 44 of 100
Chapter 9
Rules for Regional
Boards and European
party units
1. The rules for English regional boards and the

Scottish and Welsh executives, including
procedural rules for meetings and for the election
of members of the board or executive, standing
orders committee and auditors, shall be
determined by the regional board/Scottish or
Welsh executive and approved by the NEC.
2. Full copies of the rules and standing orders that
have been approved for each of the regional
boards in England and for the Scottish and Wales
Labour Parties are available from the respective
regional director or General Secretary listed in the
information section at Chapter 16 . Such rules
may not conflict with the model rules approved by
conference. Where any matters are not covered
by procedural rules approved by the NEC
reference should be made to the appropriate
national guidelines (such as those for conference
in Chapter 3 ).
3. The regional board/Scottish or Welsh executive
will undertake the role of European Constituency
Labour Party and should organise at least one
European Forum per year in accordance with
procedural guidelines issued by the NEC.
4. The regional board/Scottish or Welsh executive
will undertake appeals against the withdrawal of
the whip by a Labour group, and appeals against
exclusion from the panel of local government
candidates. The regional board/Scottish or Welsh
executive will keep in place an appeals panel,
which may include members who are not elected
members of the regional board/Scottish or Welsh
executive.
5. Where there are regional/Scottish/Welsh women’s
committees or a regional BAME members’ section
the regional board, Scottish or Welsh executive
will be responsible for overseeing their operation,
and drawing up their rules and standing orders,
which shall be approved by the NEC.
Chapter 9
Rules for Regional Boards and European party units Page 45 of 100
to aid her in delivering the aims of the
Chapter 10 organisation. She will be, ex-officio, the chair/ co-

ordinator of this group.
2. The women’s officer and forum shall draw up an
Rules for women’s annual plan and a programme of activities. This
plan shall be agreed by the GC/ EC of the
forums constituency. The plan shall be prepared bearing

in mind:
A. the aims of the local women’s organisation
B. the particular interests and needs of local
women, as identified through surveying
women members
Clause I. C. the guidelines and priorities circulated from
Name time to time by party head office or, as
{ } Constituency Labour Party women’s forum appropriate, the Scottish, Welsh or regional
office.
Clause II.
3. The women’s forum may appoint other officers to
Aims and values help carry out its work.
1. National 4. The women’s officer shall build targets for the
A. The aims and values of the Labour Party as year into her plans, which can then be monitored
outlined in Chapter 1 Clause IV above of the and reviewed to help planning for future years.
national constitutional rules shall apply to this 5. The women’s forum shall register with the
women’s forum. appropriate regional director (or General Secretary
2. Constituency in Scotland or Wales), and re-register on an annual
A. The aims of this women’s forum shall be: basis.
i. to encourage and support women Clause V.
members to play a full and active part in Meetings
all the party’s activities, particularly
through facilitating training, networking 1. A meeting of the women’s forum shall only have
and mentoring, and encouraging women formal status if all women members in the
to run for elected office constituency have been given 14 days written
notice of the meeting, and the business to be
ii. to build links with women in the discussed, and at least ten eligible women
community, through contact with members attend.
community organizations and individual
women, consultation, campaigning and 2. At a formal meeting the women’s forum may, if it
joint working wishes, make nominations to the CLP for posts
open to nomination from branches (ie CLP
iii. to encourage women to join the party officers, parliamentary/ European parliamentary
and to ensure that new women members candidate, members of the NEC, National Policy
are welcomed Forum, etc) and elect two delegates to the
iv. to ensure that women’s voices are heard constituency General Committee. A formal
in the party, through monitoring women’s meeting may also agree motions to be sent to the
involvement in activities, and feeding General Committee.
women’s concerns to the party and to 3. The women’s forum may hold whatever informal
policy makers meetings or gatherings it sees fit to work
v. to work jointly with Labour women in towards meeting its aims.
neighbouring constituencies in the
delivery of the above aims. Clause VI.
Activities
Clause III.
1. The women’s forum shall prioritise work which
Membership aims to support women members of the party to
1. The membership of the women’s forum shall play an active part in all the party’s activities – in
consist of all individual women members in { } particular, training, mentoring and networking
Constituency Labour Party. The women’s officer among women to encourage women to:
should be provided with contact details for A. hold elected office within the party (eg as
women members in the constituency by the branch or constituency chair, political
constituency secretary. All women members shall education officer, etc)
be mailed at least annually to inform them about
the activity of the women’s officer and/ or forum. B. stand as councillors, MPs, MEPs and other
forms of elected representative for the party
Clause IV. C. become involved in the community, for
Management example, as school governors/ board
1. The women’s officer shall be responsible for members, on committees of local
coordinating a women’s forum in the constituency
Chapter 10
Rules for women’s forums Page 46 of 100
organisations, as magistrates, members of women’s forum fail to co-operate with the CLP,
community health councils, etc the NEC will take appropriate disciplinary action
D. take part in all forms of party activities – in against individual members, suspend this
particular campaigns, recruitment activity, women’s forum or both.
party committees, meetings and policy Clause VIII.
forums.
General
2. The women’s forum shall also seek to build links
1. The general provisions of the constitution and
with women in the community through, for
rules of the Labour Party shall apply to the
example:
women’s forum.
A. building relationships with organisations, such
2. The women’s forum shall not enter into affiliation
as women’s voluntary organisations, tenants’
or give support financially or otherwise to any
groups, trade unions and other organisations
political party or organisation ancillary or
in which women are active, through
subsidiary thereto declared ineligible for
information exchange, personal contact, joint
affiliation to the party by the annual party
meetings, events and campaigns
conference or by the National Executive
B. working with the party and Labour councilors Committee.
and MPs to consult women in the community
3. This women’s forum shall not have the power to
about their views and concerns, using
enter into property-related transactions or to
consultation meetings, policy forums, surveys,
employ staff
listening campaigns and other techniques
C. targeted campaigning and recruitment activity 4. This women’s forum shall adopt standing orders
with women, including campaigns on issues of and procedural rules as may be agreed by the
particular interest to women such as women’s appropriate regional director.
health, childcare and violence against women. Clause IX.
3. The women’s forum shall seek to ensure that Alteration to rules
women’s voices are properly heard in the party, Any alteration or addition to these rules may only be
through the above activities and through, for made at the annual general meeting of the { }
example: Constituency Labour Party women’s forum but must be
A. feeding women’s views on policy into local submitted to the appropriate regional director for
and national policy forums and to the approval before being put into operation. Such changes
constituency’s General Committee shall not contravene the spirit or intention of the model
B. encouraging women to play an active role in rules as accepted by party conference or the NEC.
these and other bodies, monitoring women’s
involvement and working with the rest of the
party to develop arrangements which
maximise this involvement
C. bringing any problems regarding women’s
involvement, including through the filling of
quotas, to the attention of the constituency
secretary, other officers or the regional party
office
D. holding local policy forums for women.
Clause VII.
Finances
1. The funds of the women’s forum shall consist of
donations, collections, profits from sales, and
receipts from activities undertaken by the forum.
In the event of the dissolution of the women’s
forum its assets shall belong to the { }
Constituency Labour Party.
2. The Constituency Labour Party shall, by
agreement, make resources available to the
women’s forum (if operating successfully), to
enable it to function effectively. The Labour
Party’s financial scheme recognises the assets
and financial transactions of this women’s forum
as the assets and financial transactions of { }
Constituency Labour Party, of which it is a
constituent part. It shall be the duty of this
women’s forum to co-operate with the CLP, and in
particular the CLP treasurer, in respect of the
Chapter 10
Rules for women’s forums Page 47 of 100
3. Young Labour shall ensure at every level close
Chapter 11 cooperation and liaison with Labour Students and

young trade unionists.
Clause V.
Rules for Young Labour Regional Committees
1. The regional director (or General Secretary in
Scotland and Wales) may convene a regional or
Scottish or Welsh committee to assist in the co-
ordination and work of Young Labour groups in
their area. Where these Scottish, Welsh and
Clause I.
regional committees are in existence, they shall
Name produce regular reports on their work and
{ } Young Labour progress to the National Committee of Young
Labour and to the National Executive’s Youth
Clause II. Committee.
Aims and values
1. To help young Labour Party members play a full
and active part within the Labour Party.
2. To train and politically educate young Labour
Party members.
3. To help young Labour Party members organize
social activities.
4. To change the culture, particularly the meeting
culture, of the Labour Party at branch and
constituency level and to organise more social
activities at every level.
5. To advise the Labour Party on issues that
particularly concern young people in Britain and
issues that concern young members of the party.
6. To recruit and retain many more young people
into Labour Party membership.
7. To campaign against all forms of discrimination
and prejudice, especially those based upon race,
colour, religion, disability, gender or sexual
orientation.
8. To persuade more young people to vote Labour at
all elections.
9. To reverse the declining numbers of young
people who are registered to vote.
10. To maximise the number of postal votes from
young people.
11. To maintain good relations with the youth
organisations of sister parties and with the
International Union of Socialist Youth and the
European Community Organisation of Socialist
Youth.
Clause III.
Membership
All individual members of the Labour Party aged
between 15 and 26 years inclusive shall automatically
be members of Young Labour.
Clause IV.
Structure
1. There shall be a National Committee and an
Executive Committee to ensure the effective
administration and organisation of Young Labour.
2. Young Labour members shall be able to establish
local Young Labour groups throughout England,
Scotland and Wales.
Chapter 11
Rules for Young Labour Page 48 of 100
2. The appropriate regional director or General
Chapter 11A Secretary may then agree that a group be set up

and registered.
3. A Young Labour group is considered to be a bona
Young Labour groups fide group when the appropriate regional director
(or General Secretary) informs Labour Party head
office that a local group has been registered.
Clause V.
Geographical boundaries
1. The geographical boundaries of Young Labour
Clause I.
groups shall be decided by the regional director
Name (or Scottish or Welsh General Secretary).
{ } Young Labour 2. The regional director (or Scottish or Welsh General
Clause II. Secretary) shall have the authority to change the
Aims and values geographical boundaries of a Young Labour group.
1. To help young Labour Party members play a full 3. The Young Labour group shall notify Labour Party
head office of their geographical boundary or any
and active role within the Labour Party.
changes to their geographical boundary.
2. To organise local social activities for young
Labour Party members and for young people Clause VI.
within the community. Meetings
3. To train and politically educate young Labour 1. Young Labour groups should avoid bureaucracy at
Party members. their meetings. Only the activities planned, the
4. To change the culture, particularly the meeting division of duties and responsibilities between
culture, of the Labour Party at branch and members of the group, or a programme of action
constituency level and to organise more social need be officially recorded.
activities. 2. Political education discussions, speakers,
5. To persuade more young people to vote Labour at campaigns and elections, social activities should
all elections. be the main items on the agenda of meetings
with any other of the objectives and aims of
6. To recruit and retain many more young people
Young Labour.
into Labour Party membership.
3. Guidelines on running Young Labour group
7. To campaign against all forms of discrimination
meetings may be issued by the national
and prejudice, especially those based upon race,
committee of Young Labour from time to time.
colour, religion, disability, gender or sexual
orientation. 4. All individual members of the Labour Party
between the ages of 15 and 26 inclusive
8. To reverse the declining numbers of young
(identified as such on the national membership
people who are registered to vote.
system) and that live in the area covered by the
9. To maximise the number of postal votes from Young Labour group should be invited to
young people. meetings of the group.
Clause III. 5. The Young Labour office at Labour Party head
Membership office shall be given at least seven days written
notice of any meeting at which it is intended to
1. All individual members of the Labour Party aged elect officers of the Young Labour group.
between 15 and 26 years inclusive, who live
within the geographical boundary of the Young Clause VII.
Labour group, shall automatically be members of Officers
the group.
1. An annual meeting of the Young Labour group
Clause IV. shall be held which shall elect a chair, a secretary,
Establishing a group a membership and campaigns officer, and a
women’s officer. These shall form the formal
1. Young Labour Party members may set up a Young officer group. Other ‘functional’ officers may be
Labour group by applying to the regional director appointed at the annual meeting. The names and
(or Scottish or Welsh General Secretary) giving addresses of the officers of the Young Labour
details as to the geographical boundaries – the group and any subsequent changes shall be
Labour Party branches or constituencies – that the notified to Labour Party head office.
group will cover. The member(s) shall also contact
the CLP secretary(ies) covered by the proposed Clause VIII.
Young Labour group, informing them of the Finance
intention to set up a local group. The member(s)
1. The Young Labour group may raise and spend its
shall also notify the Young Labour office at
own funds if the expenditure is to further the
Labour Party head office of the intention to set
objectives of Young Labour as determined in
up a local group.
these rules and by the National Executive
Chapter 11
Committee. The secretary of the Young Labour decision to the National Executive Youth
group shall be responsible for the finances of the Committee. The NEC’s decision shall be final and
group. binding.
2. The Young Labour group shall submit its accounts
to the appropriate regional director, or Scottish or
3. Welsh General Secretary or on request to the
Young Labour office at Labour Party head office.
4. An arrangement may be made between the
Young Labour group and appropriate CLPs for a
proportion of young Labour Party members’
subscriptions to be paid to the group.
5. In the event of the dissolution of a Young Labour
group all funds and properties shall belong to the
National Committee of Young Labour.
6. The Labour Party’s financial scheme recognises
the assets and financial transactions of this
Young Labour group as the assets and financial
transactions of the Labour Party region or nation
in which it is organised. It shall be the duty of this
Young Labour Group to co-operate with the
regional or national office in respect of its
obligations under the Political Parties, Elections
and Referendums Act 2000. Should this Young
Labour group fail to co-operate with the regional
or national office, the NEC will take appropriate
disciplinary action against individual members,
suspend this Young Labour Group or both.
Clause IX.
Relationship with constituency parties
1. Young Labour groups shall maintain good
relations with CLPs within their geographical
boundary. In particular, the Young Labour group
shall inform the CLPs within their geographical
boundary of any campaigns, activities or events
they are running, organising or assisting with.
Young Labour groups shall also receive the co-
operation, encouragement and assistance of
branches and CLPs and their officers.
Clause X.
General relations
1. The Young Labour group shall set up links with
local young trade unionists and other single-issue
groups whose aims and objectives are compatible
with those of the Labour Party as decided by the
Labour Party National Executive Committee. The
NEC’s decision in such matters shall be final and
binding.
2. Young Labour groups shall give reports at least
quarterly on their activities and any problems and
difficulties they are experiencing to the National
Committee of Young Labour through the Young
Labour office at Labour Party head office.
Clause XI.
Dissolution
1. The regional director (or Scottish or Welsh General
Secretary) shall have the authority to dissolve,
reconstitute or change the geographical boundary
of Young Labour groups.
2. A Young Labour member whose group is to be
dissolved or reconstituted by a regional director
or General Secretary may appeal against the
Chapter 11
Clause III.
Chapter 11B Executive

1. The National Committee shall elect an executive
which shall comprise:
Young Labour National A. chair
B. vice-chair
Committee C. women’s officer
D. membership and campaigns officer
E. assistant secretary.
2. The permanent secretary and young members
representative on the NEC shall also be members
Clause I. of the executive. In addition, the National
Aims and values Committee shall, if it so wishes, appoint two
1. To advise the NEC on the administration and others to the executive. All members of the
organisation of Young Labour; advise on all executive shall also be members of the National
matters affecting young people; advise on any Committee unless this requirement is waived by
matters at the request of the NEC. the NEC.
2. To establish relations with British youth Clause IV.
organisations whose purpose and activities are Meetings
not incompatible with membership of the Labour
1. The National Committee of Young Labour shall
Party.
meet at least quarterly. The executive of Young
3. To maintain association with overseas socialist Labour shall meet as often as necessary. The
youth movements through affiliation to the permanent secretary shall convene all meetings
International Union of Socialist Youth and the of the National and Executive Committees. An
European Community Organisation of Socialist annual meeting of the National Committee shall
Youth. be held to elect the officers and executive of
4. To present an annual report on its work to any Young Labour.
Young Labour national conference.
Clause V.
5. To receive reports from Young Labour groups and Finance
give guidance to Young Labour groups so that
they are run effectively and efficiently. 1. The National Committee may raise and spend its
own funds, as long as expenditure is to achieve
6. To organise regional teams of people who shall the objectives of Young Labour as determined in
help, assist and provide information for local these rules and, from time to time, by the Labour
Young Labour groups. Party NEC. The permanent secretary of the
7. To organise teams of young members to help National Committee shall act as treasurer of the
fight by-elections and other campaigns and help National Committee. The National Committee
organise regional recruitment teams of young shall submit its accounts to the NEC Youth
members. Committee annually.
Clause II. Clause VI.
Membership Conference
1. The National Committee of Young Labour shall 1. Young Labour conference shall be held from time
comprise: to time as determined by the NEC under rules
A. ONE representative from each of the Labour approved by party conference.
Party English regions and the Scottish and
Welsh Labour parties
B. FIVE representatives from trade unions
affiliated to the Labour Party
C. THREE representatives from Labour Students
D. ONE representative of the Young Fabians
E. the young members’ representative on the
NEC
F. the young members’ representatives on the
National Policy Forum a national officer of the
Labour Party, appointed by the NEC, shall be
the permanent secretary and ex-officio
member of the National Committee.
Chapter 11
unions and, where appropriate, other
Chapter 12 organisations affiliated to that

constituency. The delegates shall be
appointed by the CLP General Committee
Rules for Labour Party and a 50 per cent quota for women
delegates shall apply
local government ii. two delegates appointed by the women’s

forum in each constituency concerned
committees iii. two delegates appointed by the Co-

operative Party.
B. [Districts in England and unitary/ county
boroughs in Scotland, England and Wales
only:]
i. organisations approved by the NEC.
Note: These rules apply to all local government Except with the specific agreement of
committees (throughout England, Scotland and Wales, the NEC such delegates to be elected
operating for levels of directly elected local government through the CLPs concerned, including
above that of parish/ community council. Where there are representatives of branches (which may
Labour groups on parish or community councils these be nominated direct) and other
should have a similar relationship to the branches and/ or organizations represented on the general
CLPs covering their area as outlined in these rules. committees of the CLPs concerned.
Where formal arrangements are in operation these must Where a Co-operative Party council
be sanctioned by the CLP concerned with the approval of exists for the area concerned and they
the appropriate regional director (General Secretary in sponsor candidates in local elections
Scotland and Wales) on behalf of the NEC. they shall be entitled to appoint two
delegates to the Management
Clause I. Committee. Delegates shall be registered
Name as electors in the local government area
The { } borough/ district/ Scottish or Welsh unitary/ concerned and a 50 per cent quota for
district/ county borough/ county Labour Party Local women’s representation shall apply
Government Committee (LGC). ii. where a district forms part only of a
Clause II. constituency, the Management
Committee may consist of those
Objects
delegates appointed to the CLP General
1. To co-ordinate the activities of CLPs and branches Committee who are registered as
within the area for the purpose of securing the electors in the area covered by the LGC,
return of Labour representatives to the borough/ otherwise the basis of representation as
district/ unitary/ county borough/ county council approved by the NEC shall be as follows:
(‘the council’). {insert}.
2. To undertake, in co-operation with CLPs within C. [London borough local government
the area, propaganda, educational and other committees only:]
activities related to local government.
i. the CLPs concerned, pro-rata to the
3. To formulate an electoral programme and to electorate of the borough contained in
compile a panel of candidates in accordance with their areas and including representatives
the provisions of chapter 5 of the national rules from party units and affiliated
of the party. organisations represented on their
4. To ensure the establishment of a Labour group on general committees. Each delegation
the council in accordance with the rules for such shall include the chair and secretary of
groups contained in Chapter 13 of the party any CLP concerned (who shall be ex-
rules. officio without voting power if not
5. County LGCs in England only shall also establish a registered as electors in the borough).
Delegates shall be registered as electors
machinery for the purpose of providing liaison
in the local government area concerned
between the county council Labour group and
other local authority Labour groups within the and a 50 per cent quota for women’s
representation shall apply
county council’s area of operation.
ii. the basis of representation as approved
Clause III. by the NEC shall be as follows: {insert}.
Management D. Delegates must be individual members of the
1. The management of this LGC shall be in the hands Labour Party.
of a Management Committee consisting of 2. The leader and secretary of the Labour group on
delegates appointed by: the council shall be ex-officio members of the
A. [Shire counties in England only:] Management Committee with voting power.
i. CLPs, { } delegates from each, which shall 3. Accredited party organisers within the area shall
include representatives from trade be ex-officio members of the Management
Chapter 12
Rules for Labour Party local government committees Page 52 of 100
Committee without voting power unless 2. The Executive Committee of this LGC shall seek
appointed as accredited delegates. to contest all seats in each electoral area in
consultation with the CLP concerned.
Clause IV.
Officers and Executive Committee Clause VIII.
1. The officers and Executive Committee shall be Candidates
elected at the annual meeting of the 1. Candidates for the appropriate elections shall be
Management Committee. selected in accordance with the rules for the
2. The officers shall consist of a chair, vice-chair, selection of local government candidates laid
secretary and treasurer. At least two of the down in Chapter 5 of the national rules of the
officers shall be women. party and in the selection guidelines appended
thereto along with any other regulations
3. The Executive Committee shall consist of the approved by the NEC.
officers, the leader and secretary of the Labour
group on the council and { } members elected on a 2. In the event of a by-election arising the Executive
basis to be approved by the NEC. Accredited party Committee shall consult with the executive
organisers within the area may attend Executive committees of the CLP and branches concerned to
Committee meetings without voting power. ensure that a candidate is selected as far as
possible following the procedure referred to
4. Officers and members of the Executive
above. In the case of an emergency, it shall take
Committee must be duly appointed delegates to
whatever action that may be necessary to meet
the Management Committee.
the situation and to ensure that the vacancy is
Clause V. contested by the party.
Meetings Clause IX.
1. The annual meeting shall be held in {month} each Relations with the Labour group
year, or if such a meeting is not held, as soon as
1. For the purpose of maintaining contact between
possible afterwards. the group and the appropriate Local Government
2. The Management Committee shall hold at least { } Committee, not more than six representatives of
and no more than { } meetings in any year. the latter (‘group observers’) may attend group
3. The Executive Committee shall meet as required. meetings with the right to speak on all matters
coming before the group (subject to Chapter 13
4. Meetings should be conducted in a comradely
Clause IX below and Chapter 13 Clause XIII below
fashion, in such a way as to maximize
of the group rules) but not to propose or second
participation from delegates and councillors, who
motions or amendments or to vote. Where a
should be encouraged to attend. {Other observers
Labour group has less than 16 members the
are not permitted at business sessions of this
number of group observers shall not exceed one
LGC.} No one entitled to attend shall be precluded
third of the membership of the group.
because they cannot gain access to the meeting
room for any reason. Harassment or intimidation 2. All members of the appropriate Labour group may
of members on the basis of gender, sexuality, usually attend meetings of the Management
disability or race is unacceptable. Committee. The group leader and committee
chairs or spokespeople shall attend to report to,
Clause VI. and consult with, the LGC on the work of the
Finance group or their council committee.
1. The administrative expenses of this LGC shall be Clause X.
met from contributions subscribed by the CLPs
Miscellaneous
concerned in agreed proportions.
2. The CLPs shall be responsible for the expenses
rules of the party shall apply to this Local
incurred in contesting elections and byelections
Government Committee.
within their area. They shall also meet a
proportionate share of any expenses which the 2. Where this LGC is an accounting unit of the party
CLPs agree shall be incurred by this LGC in with regard to the Political Parties, Elections and
contesting such elections. Referendums Act 2000, it shall co-operate fully
with regard to its legal and financial obligations.
3. In LGCs covering only part of a constituency,
Where this LGC is not an accounting unit of the
administrative and election expenses may
party with regard to the Political Parties Elections
alternatively be met by the branches within the
and Referendums Act 2000, it shall liaise with
area concerned.
and cooperate with the Regional Office to ensure
Clause VII. that the CLPs which have a geographical interest
General in the LGC are able to meet their legal and
financial obligations. Should this LGC fail to co-
1. The electoral policy and programme for the
operate with the national party with regard to its
appropriate elections shall be decided by this LGC obligations under the act, the NEC will not
in consultation with representatives of the
hesitate to take appropriate disciplinary action
council Labour group.
against individual members and/or suspend this
LGC.
Chapter 12
3. Any insertions or proposed changes to these rules

for local government committees are subject to
the approval of the NEC.
4. The NEC shall have the authority to determine
how these rules shall be applied in particular
circumstances and make any adaptations
necessary to suit different or new levels of local
government as they arise.
Chapter 12
way as to maximise participation from all
Chapter 13 members and to facilitate debate on key

policy and political matters. Attendance
at group meetings by all members is
Rules for local important to ensure all points of view are

heard and a full internal discussion is
possible. The content of internal
government Labour discussion is not for communication
outside the party, and internal disputes
groups on principal that are aired in the public domain will be
subject to disciplinary action.
authorities C. To ensure every Group member is enabled
fully to contribute.
i. All members and liaison members shall be
able to gain access to the room and
attend all group meetings (unless
suspended from the whip). Harassment
Clause I. or intimidation of members for any
General rules and provisions for Labour groups reason, or on the basis of gender,
on local authorities sexuality, race, religion or disability is
1. Note: These rules apply to all local government unacceptable conduct and subject to
Labour groups throughout England, Scotland and disciplinary action.
Wales, operating for levels of directly elected D. To engage with the local party and wider
local government above that of parish/ community.
community council. Where there are Labour i. Labour groups shall engage in and
groups on parish or community councils these encourage active and constructive
should have a similar relationship to the branch debate and policy development with local
and/ or CLPs covering their area as that of a party members on local government
Labour group with a local government committee. matters. Labour groups should be
Where formal arrangements are in operation outward-looking and active in their local
these must be sanctioned by the CLP concerned communities, working in partnership with
with the approval of the appropriate regional community groups, tenants’ and
director (General Secretary in Scotland and Wales) residents’ associations, business groups,
on behalf of the NEC. The following rules apply to trades unions and all other relevant
all Labour groups. However, recognising that interests, and support consultative
different forms of governance may apply in mechanisms in their local authority.
different local authorities, the Labour Party’s
2. Individual members of Labour groups and group
standing orders and guidance for Labour groups
observers
on local authorities vary accordingly. Labour
groups shall adopt the appropriate set of model A. To uphold the highest standards of probity
standing orders approved from time to time by and integrity.
the NEC, according to local governance i. The Labour Party requires its
arrangements. Labour groups shall act in representatives to uphold the highest
accordance with guidance that shall be issued standards of probity and integrity and
from time to time by the NEC in the application of they shall be guided in those standards
these rules. by advice from the NEC.
Clause II. ii. The onus of responsibility for upholding
those standards rests with the individual
Aims and Values
councillor and group observer.
1. Labour Groups Specifically, it shall be the responsibility
A. To work constructively in their local authority of the group whip to establish a register
for real and sustainable improvements in the of interests in the form prescribed by the
economic, social and environmental well-being NEC, detailing for each member of the
of the communities and local people they group and group observer his/her
represent. employment, financial interests in
i. Labour Groups shall campaign for companies, membership of trade unions
measures that will secure stronger and and other societies or organisations.
safer communities for local people, a high iii. Labour councillors and members must at
quality of life and effective and all times avoid not only wrong-doing but
responsive delivery of services, and that also the perception of wrong-doing.
will provide community leadership. Therefore if there is any uncertainty
B. To operate at all times as a Group in an regarding whether a declaration of
effective and comradely fashion. interest is appropriate, Labour councillors
and members must take the most open
i. Labour groups shall conduct their course of action and declare an interest
business in a comradely fashion, in such a
Chapter 13
Rules for local government Labour groups on principal authorities Page 55 of 100
or disclose all relevant circumstances, i. The Labour Party expects its councillors
taking advice if necessary. to have at least minimum competencies
iv. The statutory provisions relating to the in carrying out their public duties, and
declaration of personal and prejudicial will intervene where political
interests shall apply to full group management leads to a failure in public
meetings and other meetings of all or service and performance of the authority,
part of the Labour group (eg pre and where there is a lack of commitment
meetings). Councillors and group displayed by leading members in the
observers are required to take the improvement agenda.
appropriate actions in all those meetings ii. Members of the Labour group also shall
in respect of any interest (eg an commit themselves to certain minimum
individual with a prejudicial interest in duties and activities as councillors, as set
the item under discussion must declare out in guidance that shall be issued from
that interest and leave the meeting time to time by the NEC. This shall
while that item is under consideration). include attendance at council meetings
B. To comply fully with the statutory ethical and other meetings of which you are a
framework. member, the holding of advice surgeries,
attendance at consultative meetings in
i. Members of the Labour group must sign
the ward, and regular communications
and abide by any codes of conduct as
with local residents.
may be agreed by the local authority
from time to time. All members must sign iii. Members of the Labour group shall have
up to the local code within two months a responsibility to take up such
of it being adopted, or they cease to be a opportunities of training and
member of the council. Members of the development that may be provided by
Labour group must sign any other legal the council or the group or party, in order
requirements relating to acceptance of better to carry out their activities as
office. Members must refer any wrong- effective and influential councillors.
doing by other members to the Group Through their council duties and
Whip and to the Standards Board for activities in the community, members of
England, Local Government Ombudsman the Labour group should seek to promote
in Wales or Standards Commission in Labour Party policies and to represent
Scotland, and/or local Standards and empower local people and
Committee and the Group Whip should communities, and act in a way that does
immediately consider appropriate action not bring the party into disrepute.
if any Labour councillor is referred to a Clause III.
standards body.
Membership of the group
ii. The group whip should be suspended
1. Members of the Labour group must be individual
with immediate effect on the findings of
members of the Labour Party with the
a standards body against a member, and
subscriptions paid by continuous authority and
an investigation be established to decide
must have been elected to and be eligible for
on the appropriate internal sanction.
membership of the local authority.
C. To accept the rules and standing orders of the
2. Members of the Labour group must be individual
Labour group.
members of the party’s national Association of
i. Members of the Labour group must Labour Councillors (ALC), having paid the
register as members of the Labour group appropriate annual subscription, as required by
under the provisions of the Local the party rules. The ALC subscription shall be paid
Government (Committees & Political through a group contribution, and paid to the ALC
Groups) regulations 1990. Failure to do by a continuous payment method from group
so within 14 days of a written request funds, the deduction being the figure notified to
from an officer of the group shall the party by the group treasurer or secretary by
automatically render that person outside 30 September each year and taken in November
the group for all purposes and ineligible of each year.
to be or remain a party member (subject
to the provisions of Chapter 6 A.2 above 3. Members of the Labour group who fail to maintain
of the party’s disciplinary rules). their memberships under 1 above and 2 above
according to the rules of the party and the ALC
ii. Members of the Labour group shall agree shall automatically be suspended from
in writing to abide by the rules and membership of the Labour group and from office
standing orders of the Labour group, as or representation of the Labour group until their
agreed at the annual meeting of the membership of the party and/or the ALC is
group. The general provisions of the reinstated.
constitution and rules of the party shall
apply to this group. 4. Members of the Labour group shall pay an annual
contribution to the Labour group to cover their
D. To seek to the best of their ability to be ALC subscription, group administration,
effective and influential councillors. communications and other appropriate activity,
Chapter 13
the amount and budget to be agreed by the group will reflect the gender balance of the Labour
at its AGM and paid within 30 days of such group as a whole. Any deviation from this will
agreement or on an equal monthly basis. Subject require consent from your regional director.
to the motion to be agreed at the AGM, members
of the Labour group shall give the requisite Clause VI.
authority to their council for payment of their due Group executive
amounts through the council’s pay roll system if 1. Where the Labour group chooses to appoint a
the council affords this facility group executive, the group shall do so at its
5. For the purpose of maintaining contact between annual meeting in accordance with the group
the Labour group and the appropriate party Local standing orders, and in a manner that ensures
Government Committee, not more than six equality of opportunity and encourages under-
representatives of the latter (‘group observers’) represented groups to come forward. As a
may attend group meetings; where a Labour minimum, the gender balance of the Labour group
group has fewer than 16 members the number of executive will reflect the gender balance of the
group observers shall not exceed one third of the Labour group as a whole. Any deviation from this
membership of the group. Observers will have the will require consent from your regional director.
right to speak on all matters coming before the
Clause VII.
group (subject to clause Clause II.1.B.i above) but
shall not propose or second motions or Casual vacancies
amendments or vote. Where a Labour group has 1. Casual vacancies among the group officers or in
fewer than sixteen members, the group may the executive shall be filled at an ordinary or
determine not to appoint a group executive. other meeting of the group. Appropriate notice of
Group observers shall have access to all an election shall be given.
information under consideration by the group
subject to any statutory or other conditions Clause VIII.
imposed on the council and individual councillors. Determination of group policy and action
6. Accredited party organisers within the area shall 1. The local government election campaign strategy
be ex-officio members of the group without shall be determined by the local party, normally
voting power unless eligible under 1 above above. the local government committee, in accordance
with the terms of its constitution as approved by
7. Attendance at group meetings shall be restricted
the NEC. The group shall co-operate with, and
to members of the party referred to in these rules
participate in, the formulation of election policy
except at the special invitation of the group.
(including strategy and manifesto) in the manner
8. All those attending Labour group meetings shall prescribed in the rules of the appropriate party
abide by the ethical behaviour requirements as local government committee.
set out in Clause II.1.B above.
2. Labour group standing orders shall specify the
Clause IV. matters on which it shall be the responsibility of
Group meetings the group to take decisions. The group and the
local party shall arrange a rolling programme of
1. Ordinary meetings of the Labour group shall be policy discussion and development during the
held at an agreed time between the publication of year, where progress with the implementation of
the council agenda and the full meeting of the policy or any new developments that have arisen
council, and on such other dates as may be agreed since the election manifesto was produced shall
at the annual meeting. be discussed. The form of such a programme shall
2. The annual meeting of the group for the election be jointly agreed by the Labour group and local
of officers and other appointments shall be held, party in accordance with their rules and standing
on date/s to be determined, prior to the statutory orders.
annual meeting of the council. 3. The policy of the Labour group shall be
3. Groups of more than ten members shall hold their determined by the group meeting on the
annual meetings in two parts, the first part to recommendation of the executive or otherwise. In
elect group officers and the second part to make cases of emergency, where action is required by
nominations to civic office, council leadership, motion or otherwise, such action may be taken by
executive and scrutiny positions, chair and vice the executive that shall report its action for
chair of committees and to allocate members to approval to the next group meeting. In cases of
committees. All groups shall follow NEC guidance still greater urgency, which do not admit of delay,
on good practice in running annual group the leader of the group (or in the absence of the
meetings (see the AGM Toolkit). leader, a deputy), in consultation wherever
possible with other officers, shall have power to
Clause V. act; such action to be reported to the next
Group officers meeting of the group or group executive for
1. The Labour group shall appoint group officers at approval.
the annual meeting in accordance with the group
standing orders, and in a manner that ensures
equality of opportunity and encourages under-
represented groups to come forward. As a
minimum, the gender balance of the officer group
Chapter 13
Clause IX. capacity (eg licensing of pubs, theatres and

Selection of nominations for civic offices, council cinemas or the consideration of planning
leadership and other council appointments applications) or in the scrutiny process each
member shall form his or her own judgement
1. The selection of nominations for civic offices, according to the evidence, and not be bound by a
council leadership, chair and vice-chair of any group whip. However, the member should have
committees and allocation of members to regard to their membership of the Labour Party
committees shall be made in accordance with the and seek to act in keeping with Labour Party
group standing orders, and in a manner that policy and values.
ensures equality of opportunity and encourages
under-represented groups to come forward. The 5. The demands of modern local government
Labour Party expects Labour cabinets to reflect requires the party to have regard to competency
the diversity of the area represented by the local in considering the performance of its councillors,
authority as far as possible, and to discuss any especially those in a leadership position, and may
failure to do so with the regional director. Where a take action through the NEC’s Local Governance
vote for a nomination is necessary it shall be by Advisory Panel to intervene to ensure effective
secret ballot. The appropriate local government political management and leadership, and a
committee of the party shall have the right and commitment to the improvement agenda.
opportunity to submit names for consideration, Clause XII.
but formal nomination and selection shall be as Groups on committees
specified in the group standing orders.
1. The group standing orders shall specify how
Clause X. these rules may be applicable to Labour groups
Arrangements with other parties on, and members of, committees and sub-
1. Where no one party has an overall majority on the committees of the council including any co-opted
council, the group shall operate under guidance members.
issued from time to time by the NEC. Labour Clause XIII.
groups must not enter into any arrangements Breach of rule
with other parties, to determine the political
control and management of the local authority, 1. Acceptance of these rules (as approved by the
which do not comply with the NEC’s approved NEC) is a condition of membership of the Labour
options, and without the specific prior approval of group on the council.
the NEC. Groups and members must stand down 2. Where allegations of a breach of rule by a Labour
from multi-party arrangements on the instruction councillor are made, action shall be taken in
of the regional office, after discussion with the accordance with guidance provided from time to
NEC. time by the NEC. The chief whip shall be
responsible for the implementation of such
Clause XI. guidance locally.
Action by individual members
3. If, following any initial investigation, the group
1. Action by individual members of the Labour group whip finds a serious breach of rule, it shall be
shall conform to the group standing orders. competent for the group whip to be withdrawn
Labour recognises that individual members, to for a specified period up to a maximum of six
fulfil their representative duties, may without months or for an indefinite period, from any
consultation speak and ask questions in meetings member who is in breach of these rules, such
of the council on behalf of their constituents or action to be initiated by the group whip who shall:
other community interests. Where the tendency
A. report to the officers of the group and the
of such interventions is likely to be in conflict
appropriate party local government committee
with the policy of the group, it is the
who shall ensure that there is no party
responsibility of the individual member to ensure
discussion on the proposed action outside the
that the relevant lead member of the group is
procedure provided for in this rule until this
consulted.
procedure has been completed.
2. Individual members of the group are bound by
B. convene a joint meeting of the Labour group
Labour Party policy and values, and should be
and the executive of the appropriate party
committed to comradely behaviour. They should
local government committee at which upon
not issue publications, or maintain web sites, or
due notice the matter shall be determined
speak to the press in a way which opposes party
with the chair from the Labour Group and
policy or attacks other members of their group or
evidence taken in writing, from the defendant,
members of groups in neighbouring or other tier
and from witnesses as necessary).
authorities.
4. Where the NEC determine there are exceptional
3. Where matters of conscience arise (eg religion,
circumstances, the NEC Disputes Panel shall be
temperance) individual members of the group
charged with the responsibility to undertake
may abstain from voting provided they first raise
procedures relating to a breach of these rules,
the matter at a group meeting in order to
thus in such instant relieving the Labour group
ascertain the feeling of the group.
and local government committee executive of
4. In matters where the council or its committees or such powers.
sub-committees are acting in a quasi-judicial
5. Withdrawal of whip
Chapter 13
A. A decision to withdraw the whip shall take cooperation and consultation on all matters
immediate effect but is subject to appeal concerning local governance in their area.
within 14 days to the appeal panel of the
Regional Executive Committee who shall hear Clause XV.
the appeal within 14 days of receipt and Group standing orders
whose decision shall be final. 1. Labour groups, in consultation with the Party’s
B. Where a decision to withdraw the whip has Local Government Unit, shall adopt and follow the
been made by a panel of the NEC, an appeal relevant model rules and standing orders issued
may be made to the General Secretary of the from time to time by the NEC, according to the
Labour Party within 14 days. The appeal shall political management arrangements in operation
be heard by a panel of not less than three in their local authority. These standing orders
members drawn from the National may be varied from time to time by the NEC.
Constitutional Committee, who shall hear the 2. Any insertions or proposed changes to Labour
appeal, within 28 days and whose decision group rules or standing orders are subject to the
shall be final. prior approval of the NEC.
6. Any member of the group who has had the group
Clause XVI.
whip withdrawn shall at the time of such
withdrawal be informed of their right to appeal. Compliance with PPERA
Once such appeal procedure, if any, has upheld a 1. Labour groups are members associations for the
decision to withdraw the whip without a time purposes of the Political Parties, Elections and
limit being determined, the member concerned Referendums Act 2000 (PPERA). They do not
shall be ineligible to be or to be nominated as a form part of the central organisation of the Party
Labour candidate or as a public representative at or any of its accounting units, including any local
any level of election as long as s/he is not in government committee, for those purposes.
receipt of that whip (this shall not apply when the Group members shall ensure that they comply
suspension is for a fixed period). A member who with their individual obligations, and that the
has had the group whip withdrawn must remain group complies with its collective obligations,
registered as a member of the Labour group in under PPERA, in particular in respect of political
accordance with Clause II.2.C above. spending and donation reporting. Group members
7. Any member who has had the whip withdrawn shall co-operate with the officers of other party
without a time limit being determined shall after units to enable them to comply with their
six months be eligible to apply to the Labour obligations under PPERA, in particular in respect
group for re-admission. In such cases, the Labour of financial transfers between the group and/or
group shall be responsible for restoration of the group members and those other units. Should the
whip. Where the whip has been withdrawn by the group or any of its members fail to cooperate with
NEC, application for restoration of the whip after any relevant party unit in respect of any of its or
six months shall be made to the NEC. their PPERA obligations, the NEC will take
appropriate disciplinary action against individual
8. Where a member of the Labour group is alleged to members, suspend the group or both.
have breached any element of the statutory
ethical framework, the chief whip shall follow the Clause XVII.
guidance issued from time to time by the NEC in Miscellaneous
determining what action, if any, needs to be
1. Labour groups on joint boards, committees, on
taken by the Labour group.
regional bodies and on local government
Clause XIV. associations shall adopt appropriate rules and
Reporting to and consulting with the party standing orders in consultation with the Party’s
Local Government Unit and with the prior
1. Members of the Labour group are entitled and approval of the NEC.
encouraged to attend meetings of the
appropriate party Local Government Committee. 2. The rules contained in Chapter 13 are minimum
The group standing orders shall specify how the requirements for the operation of Labour groups
group and council leadership shall report to and and the conduct of Labour councillors. Due
consult with the appropriate local party on a account must be taken of the resources for
regular basis; the leader and secretary of the member development and the guidance approved
Labour Group are ex officio members of the LGC by the NEC and of such advice as may be issued
and its Executive Committee for reporting and from time to time by the NEC.
liaison respectively. The party expects the group 3. Model standing orders for Labour groups
leadership to give a minimum of reports and hold A. The NEC has approved a single set of model
a number of policy consultations within the year, standing orders for Labour groups, which will
to keep the party informed of budgetary and encompass the different sets of standing
service delivery issues, and other policy areas. orders previously available in sections 13B to
2. The provisions for consultation between party 13F. The model standing orders can be
and group set out in these rules and the model obtained via a number of different routes:
standing orders are the minimum arrangements i. on the ALC pages of the Labour Party
required. Parties and groups are encouraged to website
secure the greatest possible degree of
Chapter 13
ii. by contacting the Local Government Unit

at Labour Party head office, telephone
020 7783 1356 or email
[email protected]
iii. by contacting the Compliance Unit at
Labour Party head office, telephone 020
7783 1498 or email
[email protected]
iv. They are also contained within the
Labour Group AGM Toolkit, issued
annually to group secretaries
Chapter 13
Clause IV.
Chapter 14 Management
1. The ethnic minorities officer shall be responsible
for co-ordinating an ethnic minorities forum in the
Rules for Ethnic constituency to aid them in delivering the aims of
the organisation. She/he will be, ex-officio, the
Minorities Forums chair/ co-ordinator of this group.
2. The ethnic minorities officer and forum shall draw
up an annual plan and a programme of activities.
This plan shall be agreed by the GC/ EC of the
constituency. The plan shall be prepared bearing
in mind:
Clause I. A. the aims of the local ethnic minorities forum.
Name B. the particular interests and needs of local
{ } Constituency Labour Party ethnic minorities forum. BAME members, as identified through
surveying BAME members.
Clause II.
Aims and values C. the guidelines and priorities circulated from
time to time by party head office or, as
1. National appropriate, the Scottish, Welsh or regional
A. The aims and values of the Labour Party as office.
outlined in Chapter 1 Clause IV of the national 3. The ethnic minorities forum may appoint other
constitutional rules shall apply to this ethnic officers to help carry out its work.
minorities forum.
4. The ethnic minorities officer shall build targets
2. Constituency for the year into their plans, which can then be
A. The aims of this ethnic minorities forum shall monitored and reviewed to help planning for
be: future years.
i. to encourage and support Black, Asian, 5. The ethnic minorities forum shall register with
Minority Ethnic (BAME) members to play the appropriate regional director (or General
a full and active part in all the party’s Secretary in Scotland or Wales), and re-register on
activities, particularly through facilitating an annual basis.
training, networking and mentoring, and
encouraging BAME members to run for Clause V.
elected office. Meetings
ii. to build links with BAME voters in the 1. A meeting of the ethnic minorities forum shall
community, through contact with only have formal status if all BAME members in
community organisations and individual the constituency have been given 14 days
BAME voters, consultation, campaigning written notice of the meeting, and the business
and joint working. to be discussed, and at least ten eligible BAME
iii. to encourage BAME voters to join the members attend.
party and to ensure that new BAME 2. At a formal meeting the ethnic minorities forum
members are welcomed. may, if it wishes, make nominations to the CLP for
iv. to ensure that BAME members’ voices are posts open to nomination from branches (ie CLP
heard in the party, through monitoring officers, parliamentary/ European parliamentary
BAME’s involvement in activities, and candidate, members of the NEC, National Policy
feeding BAME’s concerns to the party Forum, etc) and elect two delegates to the
and to policy makers. constituency General Committee, at least one of
which must be a woman. A formal meeting may
v. to work jointly with Labour BAME also agree motions to be sent to the General
members in neighbouring constituencies Committee.
in the delivery of the above aims.
3. The ethnic minorities forum may hold whatever
Clause III. informal meetings or gatherings it sees fit to
Membership work towards meeting its aims.
1. The membership of the ethnic minorities forum Clause VI.
shall consist of all individual BAME members in { } Activities
Constituency Labour Party. The ethnic minorities
officer should be provided with contact details for 1. The ethnic minorities forum shall prioritise work
BAME members in the constituency by the which aims to support BAME members of the
constituency secretary. All BAME members shall party to play an active part in all the party’s
be mailed at least annually to inform them about activities – in particular, training, mentoring and
the activity of the ethnic minorities officer and/ or networking among BAME members to encourage
forum. them to:
Chapter 14
Rules for Ethnic Minorities Forums Page 61 of 100
A. hold elected office within the party (eg as forum (if operating successfully), to enable it to
branch or constituency chair, political function effectively. The Labour Party’s financial
education officer, etc). scheme recognises the assets and financial
B. stand as councillors, MPs, MEPs and other transactions of this ethnic minorities forum as the
forms of elected representative for the party. assets and financial transactions of { }
Constituency Labour Party, of which it is a
C. become involved in the community, for
constituent part. It shall be the duty of this ethnic
example, as school governors/ board
minorities forum to co-operate with the CLP, and
members, on committees of local
in particular the CLP treasurer, in respect of the
organisations, as magistrates, members of
community health councils, etc.
D. take part in all forms of party activities – in ethnic minorities forum fail to co- operate with
particular campaigns, recruitment activity, the CLP, the NEC will take appropriate disciplinary
party committees, meetings and policy action against individual members, suspend this
forums. ethnic minorities forum or both.
2. The ethnic minorities forum shall also seek to
build links with BAME voters in the community
Clause VIII.
through, for example: General
A. building relationships with organisations, such 1. The general provisions of the constitution and
as BAME voluntary organisations, tenants’ rules of the Labour Party shall apply to the ethnic
groups, trade unions and other organisations minorities forum.
in which BAME voters are active, through 2. The ethnic minorities forum shall not enter into
information exchange, personal contact, joint affiliation or give support financially or otherwise
meetings, events and campaigns. to any political party or organisation ancillary or
B. working with the party and Labour councilors subsidiary thereto declared ineligible for
and MPs to consult BAME voters in the affiliation to the party by the annual party
community about their views and concerns, conference or by the National Executive
using consultation meetings, policy forums, Committee.
surveys, listening campaigns and other 3. This ethnic minorities forum shall not have the
techniques. power to enter into property-related transactions
C. targeted campaigning and recruitment activity or to employ staff.
with BAME voters, including campaigns on 4. This ethnic minorities forum shall adopt standing
issues of particular interest to BAME voters. orders and procedural rules as may be agreed by
D. The ethnic minorities forum shall seek to the appropriate regional director.
ensure that BAME members’ voices are Clause IX.
properly heard in the party, through the above
activities and through, for example:
Alteration to rules
Any alteration or addition to these rules may only be
i. feeding BAME members’ views on policy
made at the annual general meeting of the { }
into local and national policy forums and
Constituency Labour Party ethnic minorities forum but
to the constituency’s General Committee.
must be submitted to the appropriate regional director
ii. encouraging BAME members to play an for approval before being put into operation. Such
active role in these and other bodies, changes shall not contravene the spirit or intention of
monitoring BAME members involvement the model rules as accepted by party conference or the
and working with the rest of the party to NEC.
develop arrangements which maximise
this involvement.
iii. bringing any problems regarding BAME
involvement to the attention of the
constituency secretary, other officers or
the regional party office.
iv. holding local policy forums for BAME
members and members of the
community.
Clause VII.
Finances
1. The funds of the ethnic minorities forum shall
consist of donations, collections, profits from
sales, and receipts from activities undertaken by
the forum. In the event of the dissolution of the
ethnic minorities forum its assets shall belong to
the { } Constituency Labour Party. The
Constituency Labour Party shall, by agreement,
make resources available to the ethnic minorities
Chapter 14
Rules for Ethnic Minorities Forums Page 62 of 100
Section D
Procedural rules
Page 63 of 100
starting time, except that a particular meeting
Chapter 15 may be temporarily extended for a specified

period with the support of two-thirds of the
members present.
Model procedural rules E. Quorum

1. The quorum for business meetings of (this body)
shall be 25 per cent of those members entitled to
vote in attendance {or a fixed number to be
agreed with the regional office of the party}.
A. Model Standing Orders for Party Units 2. The proceedings and resolutions of any quorate
meeting shall not be held to be invalid simply
1. These model procedural rules are designed to through the accidental failure to give notice of
provide a framework for well-ordered party the meeting to, or the non receipt of such notice
meetings. Party units will want to adopt local by, any person entitled to attend.
standing orders to reflect their specific method of
operation; however, local arrangements must not F. Entitlement to attend
conflict with the provisions of these model rules 1. [Alt A:] All delegates must be current endorsed
which have the full authority of the NEC and form individual members of the Labour Party residing
part of the rule book. or registered as electors within the area covered
2. Throughout these rules alternative ‘A’ is for party by this party unit. Delegates whose details have
units which have a delegate structure (e.g. CLPs, been duly notified by their organisations to the
Local Government Committees, ); alternative ‘B’ is secretary of this party unit shall be entitled to
for meetings of individual members (eg branches, attend meetings and to vote. Only those duly
women’s forums, Young Labour). appointed delegates who have been elected to it
may attend and vote at meetings of the
B. Annual General Meetings Executive Committee.
1. The Annual General Meeting of {this body} shall
be held each year in the month of { }. [Alt B:] All members must be fully paid up
2. [Alt A:] A formal notice of the annual meeting individual members of the Labour Party residing
shall be sent by the secretary to all party units or registered as electors within the area covered
and organisations entitled to be represented at by this party unit. Only those members who have
least 28 days prior to the meeting. A notice been notified to the secretary as having been
detailing the business of the annual meeting shall endorsed by the CLP shall be entitled to attend
be sent to all duly appointed delegates at least meetings and to vote. Other members, including
seven days prior to the meeting. provisional members, may attend but shall not
vote. Only those members who have been elected
[Alt B:] A formal notice of the annual meeting to it may attend and vote at meetings of the
shall be sent by the secretary to all party Executive Committee.
members entitled to attend at least 14 days prior
to the meeting. [Both:] When an annual or special meeting is not
held for any reason or is abandoned without
C. Ordinary meetings completing the business on the agenda, such
1. Ordinary meetings shall be held on the following meeting must be reconvened in order for any
regular basis { }. There shall be no meetings to necessary outstanding business to be transacted.
transact ordinary business during the period of a Only those eligible to participate in the meeting
national election campaign. as first convened, whether or not held, shall be
entitled to participate in any further reconvened
2. Formal notice of all meetings shall be sent out by
meeting.
the secretary to all those entitled to attend at
least seven days prior to the meeting. Such notice G. Chair
shall as far as possible include an indication of the
1. The elected chair of this body shall preside at all
business to be transacted at the meeting.
meetings, except where otherwise provided for in
3. A record of attendance at meetings shall be kept the rules of the party unit.
and those attending may be required to show a
2. In the absence of the chair the vice-chair shall
credential and/ or proof of membership card to
preside and in the absence of both the secretary
gain entry to the meeting room.
or other officer shall call on those present to elect
D. Meeting times a member to take the chair of the meeting. Should
the office holder arrive once a member has been
1. Meetings shall commence at { }. Business
elected to preside in her or his place then she or
meetings shall not be held if a quorum is not
he may claim, if they wish, the right to preside at
present within 30 minutes of the appointed time;
the meeting once the current item of business
always provided that in special circumstances
has been disposed of.
members present may agree to transact pressing
business subject to the ratification of the 3. At the annual meeting the chair shall preside until
proceedings by the next quorate meeting. a successor is elected, except where the chair is
Meetings shall close two hours from the notified not a duly appointed delegate to the meeting; in
Chapter 15
Model procedural rules Page 64 of 100
which case the election of chair shall be taken as shall interpret the term ‘emergency’ in a bona fide
the first item on the agenda. The new chair shall manner.
take over the conduct of the meeting forthwith
and proceed to the election of other officers and J. Discussion of motion
further business. 1. No motion shall be discussed at a meeting until it
has been moved and seconded. Where a motion
H. Party business has been submitted by a party unit or
1. The prime function of party meetings is to organisation it must be moved by a delegate from
provide delegates and members with the that party unit or organisation.
opportunity to participate in party activities 2. Speakers shall address the chair and shall only
through social contact, political debate and policy speak once on any motion except by permission
discussion; and to establish objectives for the of the chair, providing that the mover of a motion
party in the area for campaigning, the or an amendment may reply to the discussion
development of party organisation and the without introducing new matter for debate; such
promotion of links with sympathetic individuals reply shall close the discussion. No speaker shall
and bodies within the wider community. be allowed more than five minutes, unless agreed
2. The agenda of all party meetings shall be drawn by the meeting to be ‘further heard’ for a
up to give due priority to the endorsement and specified period.
introduction of new members and/ or delegates, 3. Amendments to any motion may be moved and
the discussion of resolutions, party policy items seconded from the floor of the meeting but shall
and other matters of interest to party members be handed to the secretary in writing.
and the receipt of reports from public Amendments shall be taken in order with one
representatives. amendment being disposed of before another is
3. Nominations for delegates and representatives to moved. If an amendment is carried, the amended
other bodies should be sought as widely from resolution becomes a motion to which further
among party members as possible. Wherever amendments may be moved.
practicable, any vacancies to be filled shall be
advertised to all members as they arise and any K. Procedural motions
party member who has indicated willingness to 1. A motion of ‘next business’ shall not be taken
accept nomination shall be considered for any until the mover and seconder of a motion have
post, unless otherwise stated in the rules. been heard. Any motion ‘of next business’, ‘that
4. Party business shall in general have precedence the vote be taken’, ‘to adjourn’, ‘of no-confidence
at all business meetings of this body. As far as in the chair’ shall be moved, seconded and put to
possible the officers and/ or Executive the vote without discussion; after such a vote the
Committees should deal with routine items of chair need not accept a further procedural motion
correspondence, finance and reports from other for a period of 20 minutes.
party bodies or functional officers, provided that L. Motion to rescind resolution
the general meeting shall have the opportunity to
question, amend and/ or ratify any 1. No motion to rescind a resolution of this body
recommendations put to them. shall be valid within three months from the date
on which the resolution was carried. Notice of
I. Notice of motion rescinding motion must be given in writing and
1. [Alt A:] Original motions for the general meeting made available to those entitled to attend the
of this body shall be accepted only from party relevant meeting in line with rule H above above.
units and organisations entitled to appoint M. Voting on motions
delegates to it and must be received by the
secretary in writing not less than 14 days prior to 1. Voting shall be by show of hands except where
the meeting for which they are intended. the constitution of the party provides for a ballot
vote or where this body decides otherwise. In the
[Alt B:] Original motions for the general meeting event of there being an equality of votes on any
of this body shall be accepted only from members matter decided by a show of hands, the chair may
entitled to attend and participate in the meeting give a casting vote provided that s/he has not
and must be received by the secretary in writing used an ordinary vote. If the chair does not wish
not less than 14 days prior to the meeting for to give a casting vote, the motion is not carried.
which they are intended. N. Ballot votes
[Both:] Motions for discussion shall be made 1. The election of officers and/ or representatives of
available to those entitled to attend with the this body shall be by secret paper eliminating
notice and agenda of the relevant meeting, ballot in rounds or by preferential vote. The
except for emergency motions which must be election of Executive Committee members or
sent in writing to the secretary as soon as the large delegations may be by secret paper ballot
nature of the emergency allows before the using a multiple vote where members may not
commencement of the meeting. Emergency cast more votes than the number of positions to
business may be accepted by the majority of the be filled. Any quotas for women laid down in the
meeting on the recommendation of the chair who party constitution which apply to this body shall
Chapter 15
be incorporated in the arrangements for the

secret ballot.
2. Ballot votes shall be held at meetings to select
candidates and where otherwise provided for in
the party constitution; and where requested by
any member supported by at least two others.
3. In the event of a tie on a secret paper ballot the
chair shall not have a casting vote. Where
appropriate, the ballot shall be retaken and in the
event of a continual tie lots may be drawn. In a
preferential ballot the tie shall be broken by
establishing which candidate had the highest
number of first preference votes or took the
earliest lead on transfers.
O. Chair’s ruling
1. Any breach of or question to the rules or standing
orders may be raised by a member rising to a
point of order. The chair’s ruling on any point
arising from the rules or standing orders is final
unless challenged by not less than four members;
such a challenge shall be put to the meeting
without discussion and shall only be carried with
the support of two-thirds of the members
present.
P. Miscellaneous
1. Party meetings and events shall be conducted in
a friendly and orderly manner and organised in
such a way as to maximise participation from
members. No member shall be precluded from
attendance because they cannot gain access to
the meeting place for any reason. Harassment or
intimidation of any member is unacceptable as is
any form of discrimination on the basis of gender,
sexuality, disability or race. Smoking is not
permitted at any Labour Party meeting.
2. Any member acting in an unruly or disruptive
manner, in contravention of the standing orders,
may be removed from the meeting by action of
the chair. The chair shall put such a motion to the
meeting, which to be carried shall require the
support of two-thirds of those present and
voting. Any member who has been removed from
two meetings during a 12-month period shall,
with the approval of the appropriate Regional
Director, be ineligible to attend meetings of this
body for the next 12 months.
3. This party unit accepts the principle of minimum
quotas for women at all levels of representation
within the party and shall take steps to ensure
that 50 per cent of any delegation shall be
women and, where only one delegate is
appointed, a woman shall hold the position at
least every other year.
rules of the Labour Party shall apply to this body.
No alterations shall be made to the rules and
standing orders of this organisation except at an
annual or special meeting called for this purpose
and carried with the support of two-thirds of the
members present. No alteration shall be effective
until it has received the approval of the
appropriate officer of the National Executive
Committee of the Labour Party.
Chapter 15
Section E
Contacts and glossary
Page 67 of 100
South East
Chapter 16 3 Windsor Square,

Silver Street,
Reading, RG1 2TH
Party contacts and Tel: 0118 923 9400

Fax: 0118 986 4493
glossary Email: [email protected]

labour-southeast.org.uk
Regional Director: Malcolm Powers
South West
4 Emery Road
Brislington, Bristol BS4 5PF
East Midlands Tel: 0117 972 9440
Harold Wilson House Fax: 0117 972 9450
23 Barratt Lane, Attenborough Email: [email protected]
Nottingham NG9 6AD Regional Director: Paul Nicholson
Tel: 0115 943 1777
Wales
Fax: 0115 943 1888
Transport House
Email: [email protected]
1 Cathedral Road
Regional Director: Emilie Oldknow Cardiff CF11 9HA
Eastern Tel: 02920 877700
97 Fore Street Fax: 02920 221153
Ipswich, Suffolk IP4 1JZ Email: [email protected]
Tel: 01473 228700 General Secretary: Chris Roberts
Fax: 01473 228710
West Midlands
Terry Duffy House
Regional Director: Alan Olive Thomas Street, West Bromwich
West Midlands B70 6NT
London
39 Victoria Street Tel: 0121 569 1900
London SW1H 0HA Fax: 0121 569 1936
Tel: 020 7783 1170
Fax: 020 7783 1266 Regional Director: Ian Reilly
Yorkshire and The Humber
Website: labourinlondon.org.uk
20-22 Cheapside
Regional Director: Ken Clark Wakefield
West Yorkshire WF1 2TF
Labour North
Eldon House, Regent Centre Tel: 01924 291221
Newcastle-upon-Tyne Fax: 01924 290098
Tyne and Wear NE3 3PW Email: [email protected]
Tel: 0191 246 5276 Regional Director: Fiona Twycross
Fax: 0191 246 5277
Head Office
39 Victoria Street
Acting Regional Director: Fiona Stanton London SW1H OHA
North West Eldon House, Regent Centre
Suite 12 Newcastle upon Tyne NE3 3PW
St James Court, Wilderspool Causeway Tel: 08705 900 200
Warrington WA4 6PS Fax: 0191 246 5136
Tel: 01925 574913 contact: labour.org.uk/contact
Fax: 01925 234655 Website: labour.org.uk
Website: labournorthwest.co.uk
Regional Director: Anna Bunt
Scotland
John Smith House
145 West Regent Street
Glasgow G2 4RE
Tel: 0141 572 6900
Fax: 0141 572 2566
General Secretary: Colin Smyth
Chapter 16
Party contacts and glossary Page 68 of 100
Glossary
ALC Association of Labour Councillors

Branch Members’ branch in a CLP
CLP Constituency Labour Party
CAC Conference Arrangements Committee (see also ‘SOC’)
EC Executive Committee
EPLP European Parliamentary Labour Party
GC General Committee (formerly known as ‘GMC’)
GLLP Greater London Labour Party
Group Labour group of councillors on a local authority
GS General Secretary
LGC Local Government Committee
LGU Local Government Unit
MC Management Committee (usually of an LGC)
MEP Member of the European Parliament
MP Member of Parliament
NCC National Constitutional Committee
NCO National Constitutional Officer
NEC National Executive Committee
Panel Panel of prospective candidates for local or other elections
PEO Political education organiser
PLP Parliamentary Labour Party
PPC Prospective Parliamentary Candidate
SLP Scottish Labour Party
SOC Standing Orders Committee (known as CAC prior to Conference)
TUC Trades Union Congress
TULO Trade union liaison officer
YL Young Labour
YCC Youth campaigns committee
WLP Welsh Labour Party
Chapter 16
Party contacts and glossary Page 69 of 100
Section F
Appendices
Page 70 of 100
Our members will therefore ensure we have strong local
Chapter 17 parties who will:

• reach out into our communities beyond our
existing membership base
Appendix I • engage with local trade unions and community
groups to reach out to supporters and potential
new members
• empower local leadership as the key to leading
NEC statement on the •
change
be seen as the engines of change in our
importance of our •
communities
work in a way that is open and welcoming for
members •
members and supporters
work in a way that better reflects the priorities of
the communities in which we are based
• ensure Labour is a focal point for local campaigns
and community activism
Labour is a democratic socialist party which believes that • ensure there is a Labour presence in every
social change comes from a combination of progressive locality
government at the centre and community action. We do • embrace the community activism that exists
not believe that social change can be delivered solely by across the country
a top-down approach. • inform and encourage support for progressive
That means that we value the role of our members and politics and policies
our affiliated members as progressive campaigners, • actively engage with those who share our values
community activists and social entrepreneurs who forge and who are working for improvements
positive change in their own neighbourhoods as well as
• be seen by local people as somewhere that local
shaping and promoting national policy.
concerns can be addressed, and where people can
It is our members who can inspire and engage local go to help them achieve change.
people and communities.
Labour supporters will enjoy informal involvement and
Together our members and affiliates can create a party participation: the ability to be informed, to join with us at
that is truly reflective of the communities we serve; a election times to promote Labour candidates, to be
party able to turn outwards and find innovative and invited to local and national events, to hear speakers and
flexible ways to encourage contact and support from question government ministers, to engage at appropriate
local communities, drawing in those who share Labour’s points with our policy-making processes. Labour
values, and therefore bringing a range of skills and Supporters will be encouraged to join the Labour Party as
experience into its work. Our members and our affiliated full members.
members are invaluable as Labour activists in building
our electoral support, arguing our case, in ensuring a
local Labour presence in every constituency, and in being
an agent for change locally, nationally, and
internationally.
Members enjoy the formal democratic rights of party
membership as stated within the rules. Party members
have the right to participate in the formal process of the
party, vote at party meetings, stand for party office and
elected office as stated within the rules.
Many Labour supporters are also progressive
campaigners, community activists and social
entrepreneurs who forge positive change in their own
neighbourhoods. We value this contribution and should
embrace their activism. We need dialogue and to work in
partnership with our Labour supporters. The party’s
organisation needs to match the way people live and
reach out beyond its membership to our Labour
supporters. Staying permanently in touch with our
supporters, our local communities and the voters we
seek to serve will mean we stay in government and are
always a contender for government.
Chapter 17
Appendix I
NEC statement on the importance of our members Page 71 of 100

B. Enrolment procedures
Chapter 18 The following enrolment procedures shall apply to

applications for membership:
1. An application to become an individual member:
Appendix II A. may be submitted on a membership
application form by the individual, by the
appropriate CLP, or by (in the case of an
application for registered membership) an
NEC procedural affiliated organisation.
B. may be made by telephone or through the
guidelines on Labour Party web site.
2. Membership application forms must be signed
membership where required by the applicant and sent to the
General Secretary at the head office of the party
recruitment and together with the membership fee. Where
membership forms do not require a signature, or
retention where an application is made by telephone or

through the Labour Party web site, the applicant
shall be deemed to have agreed to abide by the
rules and standing orders of the Labour Party.
3. The payment must be submitted in a form
acceptable to the NEC. The general secretary shall
This Code of Conduct covers the recruitment and arrange for the applicant’s details to be recorded
retention of members of the Labour Party, and the on the national membership list as a provisional
procedures and practices to be followed. These member.
guidelines are to be read in conjunction with the Labour 4. Applications for registered membership may be
Party rules on Membership in Chapter 2 of the Labour checked with the affiliated organization
Party Rule Book. concerned to confirm that the political levy or
subscription has been in payment for at least 12
A. General months.
1. Individual members of the party shall be recruited
5. If an application is received without a
into membership in accordance with these
membership fee, or the payment is in a form
guidelines either by the appropriate branch,
unacceptable to the NEC, the applicant shall be
constituency, national or regional party, or by
immediately informed of the requirement to pay a
personal application.
fee before the application can be processed.
2. All recruitment to the party shall be in accordance
6. An applicant shall be issued with an
with these guidelines on membership recruitment
acknowledgement of provisional membership and
which shall be issued to party and affiliated
the details of the constituency in which s/he
organisations from time to time, and need to be
resides and any available information about the
read in conjunction with section two of the
local party secretaries.
Labour Party rules on Membership.
7. Provisional membership rights commence from
3. The Labour Party is anxious to encourage the
the date of production of the acknowledgement
recruitment of new members and to ensure that
following the receipt of the application and the
new members are properly welcomed into the
appropriate membership subscription. A
party and opportunities offered to enable their
provisional member shall only have the right to
full participation in all aspects of party life.
attend branch meetings in a non-voting capacity.
4. The party is, however, concerned that no
8. The constituency party concerned shall be
individual or faction should recruit members
informed by the general secretary of the
improperly in order to seek to manipulate our
application for membership. Any objection to any
democratic procedures.
application for membership may be made by the
5. The health and democracy of the party depends constituency party to the general secretary
on the efforts and genuine participation of within eight weeks of this notification. Such
individuals who support the aims of the Labour objection may only be made by the General
Party, wish to join the party and get involved with Committee or Executive Committee of the CLP
our activities. The recruitment of large numbers concerned, though such objection may initially be
of ‘paper members’, who have no wish to made on a provisional basis by a party officer,
participate except at the behest of others in an pending further enquiries. Where there is a
attempt to manipulate party processes, provisional objection within eight weeks of
undermines our internal democracy and is notification, a further four weeks may be allowed
unacceptable to the party as a whole. for an objection to be made, and in such
circumstances the applicant will be written to by
Chapter 18
Appendix II
NEC procedural guidelines on membership recruitment and retention Page 72 of 100

the national party informing them of the D. Method of Payment

extension to the period of objection.
1. Members are advised to pay their subscriptions
9. Subject to sub paragraph (h) below, if no objection directly to head office. However, payments may
is received by the general secretary within eight be made by local collection. Members may opt to
weeks of the notification in (f) above, and the pay subscriptions by means of regular
membership fee has been received by the general contributions throughout the year or a number of
secretary the applicant shall be deemed to be a years in advance by arrangement with head
full party member. office. All membership fees shall be divided
10. At any time before the individual is accepted as a between the national and constituency parties in
full member of the party, the general secretary the ratio prescribed under section 2 of this clause
may rule that the individual application for as they are received at head office.
membership be rejected for any reason which 2. Subscriptions paid through local collectors may be
s/he sees fit. deemed as having been received by the party
11. In the absence of any notice of objection from the only when such payments arrive at head office. It
constituency party as in (f) above, and/or any shall be regarded as an act grossly detrimental to
ruling by the general secretary as in (h) above, the party to withhold membership payments
the applicant shall, on the expiry of eight weeks collected locally.
from the notification in (f) above, become a full
E. Membership year
member. The provisional member shall then be
transferred to the national membership list as a 1. A membership year shall be defined as 12 months
full member as soon as is practicable. from the date of joining the party. All members
shall be issued with a card supplied by the NEC
12. The reasons for the rejection of an application for
which shall indicate the expiry of their
membership by the general secretary or the
membership year and the subscription rate paid.
objection by the constituency party to the
application for membership must be sent to the F. Arrears and lapsed members
individual applicant at the address given. S/he
1. An individual member shall be deemed to be in
shall have the right of individual written appeal to
arrears from the expiry date until they renew
the NEC. Such appeal shall be considered and
their subscription.
dealt with by the Disputes Panel of the NEC in
any manner in which it shall see fit and the 2. An individual member shall be deemed to have
decision of the Disputes Panel once approved by lapsed from membership if s/he has been in
the NEC shall be final and binding on the arrears for six months and has not responded to a
constituency party, branch party, the general request to pay the arrears.
secretary and the individual concerned. 3. Once lapsed, previous members may reactivate
their membership by paying the current minimum
C. Move of residence annual subscription, subject to the endorsement
1. In the event of a member moving residence to procedure in 2 above.
another constituency that member shall 4. Following such endorsement the general
immediately inform head office who shall transfer secretary may agree to grant continuous
the member to the relevant constituency and membership to cover the lapsed period on the
inform that CLP. If a transferring member makes payment of any outstanding subscriptions for
contact with their new CLP with proof of that period by the member concerned. In coming
membership, the appropriate CLP officer shall to a decision on granting continuity the general
inform head office. secretary may refer the matter to the disputes
2. Membership rights within the new constituency panel of the NEC whose decision shall be final in
shall commence from the date on which the all cases.
transfer is recorded by head office unless an 5. Where it is clear there has been an administrative
objection to the acceptance of the transfer is processing error, continuity of membership will be
raised within eight weeks of the transfer date. granted to lapsed members on payment of arrears
Where there is a provisional objection within and current subscription.
eight weeks of notification, a further four weeks
may be allowed for an objection to be made, and 6. Where there is agreement between the CLP and
in such circumstances the applicant will be national party that there were special
written to by the national party informing them circumstances which led to a member being
of the extension to the period of objection. inadvertently lapsed, continuity of membership
will be granted on payment of arrears plus
3. In the case of an objection the member concerned authorisation of direct debit mandate for future
has the right of individual appeal to the NEC, payments.
whose decision shall be final.
7. No person deemed to have lapsed from
4. In the event of a member moving to another membership shall have any rights to participate in
branch in the same constituency that member party decision-making until membership has been
shall inform the new branch secretary and provide fully reactivated. Members in arrears may only
evidence of membership. Head office shall be
informed of the change of address.
Chapter 18
Appendix II

participate on the basis that they intend to renew be accepted as a reason to delay auto-
their membership within the given period. endorsement.
G. Procedural code for CLPs H. Follow-up procedures by CLPs

1. Applications could be regarded as falling into the 1. Any CLP facing large numbers of applications at
following broad categories: the ‘reduced’ or ‘levy-plus’ rates is likely to require
A. Those who volunteer to pay the full a team of people willing and able to carry through
subscription rate. the recommended checks. Where there are ethnic
minority applicants, it is helpful that this team
i. CLPs should check the constitutional
should include members who understand the
requirements on:
languages and culture of the communities
a. electoral registration involved. In any case the team should act in a
b. trade union membership ‘women friendly’ and non-intimidating manner.
ii. Providing any questions on these can be 2. This team, through the membership secretary,
resolved and there are no other local would benefit from developing a good working
objections, members in this category relationship with the Membership Processing
should be ‘inducted’ as soon as possible. Assistant who deals with the processing for the
B. Those who claim ‘reduced-rate’ or ‘levy-plus’ particular constituency, the efficient follow-
status. For these applications a more rigorous through of the monthly report would help in early
check may be considered necessary: identification and speedy resolution of any
problems. The NEC takes the view that the eight
i. electoral registration in the constituency week endorsement period is ample to carry out
is a requirement of party rules, except in local checks in the vast majority of cases. The
special circumstances. A check of the eight weeks may be extended in certain cases,
register that reveals non-registration such as election periods or holiday periods, but
should be followed up with an enquiry to only where the CLP has identified a particular
seek an explanation* and to obtain a problem.
claim for registration where appropriate.
If no satisfactory explanation is received 3. The investigating team should also be involved in
then membership should be withheld. arranging proper induction for new members
which would involve explanatory material on the
ii. If the applicant is on the electoral operation of the party locally and encouragement
register then the following may also be to become involved both politically and socially.
pursued: All parties should organise ‘new member’
a. ‘reduced-rate’ applicants – is the evenings and other activities aimed at involving
category for which membership is recent applicants in their work.
claimed clear, and does this require 4. It is important that the above process is seen as
any further verification? If so, an an opportunity to explain the party’s rules and
∗
explanation should be sought and an requirements and to involve potential activists,
assurance of good faith from the not simply as a blocking mechanism. It is clear,
applicant obtained where appropriate. however, that the NEC shall support any CLP,
b. ‘levy-plus’ applicants – is ‘levy-plus’ which operates the checking procedures as
status verified by the affiliated outlined and has thereby identified any abuse of
organization concerned? If not, the the membership system.
application shall be referred to the
I. Access to membership lists
affiliate to confirm this and if
unconfirmed the applicant should be 1. The following members shall have access to
invited to pay full subscription. membership lists:
2. If the above conditions are met then the A. For CLP’s: Vice Chair/Membership and CLP
application shall be accepted subject to any other Secretary, or other designated CLP officers
local objection. CLPs must note that it is their B. For Branches: Secretary or other designated
responsibility to make any local checks deemed branch officer
necessary. If branches are to be involved in the C. For LGC’s: Secretary or other designated LGC
process this must be done within the eight week officer, where required for selection purposes
auto-endorsement period, unless an extension of MP’s, MEP’s, members of devolved bodies,
four weeks has been granted as in 2(f) or 3(b) elected mayors, councillors, for the area they
above, as referral to a branch shall not on its own represent Members of Labour Party staff
appointed by the NEC
∗
Checks may be made through a combination of visits 2. Misuse of information contained within the
and standard letters. The NEC strongly recommends membership lists could be a breach of the Date
that applicants should be visited so that any problems Protection Act, and should be reported
can be talked through and to ensure the better immediately to the Data Protection Officer at
involvement of new members (however carefully head office.
worded a letter, some confusion is bound to arise).
Chapter 18
Appendix II

Addendum to Chapter 2 Labour Party rulebook 2007

(amendment as agreed by NEC July 2006)
Chapter 18
Appendix II

4. The National Executive Committee (NEC) has the
Chapter 19 authority to modify this procedure as required to

meet particular circumstances in a CLP or to deal
with matters which affect the operation of the
Appendix III procedure in general.

5. The NEC shall determine when the process for the
selections of Prospective Parliamentary
Candidates for a future general election may
commence. See NEC timescale in section 16
NEC procedural rules on below.
6. Within the timescale outlined in section 16 below,
selection of new selections shall take place as far as possible
in an order of priority based on ‘win-ability’ within
Parliamentary party regions as determined by the Regional
Director, unless otherwise authorised by the NEC.
Candidates 7. In pursuance of the party’s objective of
considerably increasing the number of women
candidates and those from Black, Asian, Minority
Ethnic (hereafter referred to as BAME) members
and other groups currently under-represented in
parliament, parties and affiliates should place
A. Introduction particular emphasis on the need to positively
Constituencies in England and Wales are subject to encourage consideration of women, BAME
boundary changes prior to the next general election, and members, those with disabilities and those from
all selections will take place on these new boundaries. clerical and manual backgrounds.
This is not the case in Scotland, where new boundaries 8. The NEC has determined that we should achieve
were implemented prior to the 2005 General Election. at least equal numbers of men and women in the
Variations of procedures are outlined in these procedural PLP with at least 40 per cent of the PLP being
rules to take account of either situation. The National women after the next general election. To
Executive Committee have agreed a timescale for the achieve this all women shortlists will be required
carrying out of selections, and this is laid out in a new in selected constituencies where there is a
Section 16 in these procedural rules. We have also retiring Labour Member of Parliament (MP) or no
incorporated the Candidates Code of Conduct into these sitting MP. The NEC will issue guidelines as to
procedural rules, and this can be found in Section 17. how decisions on which selected constituencies
The National Parliamentary panel being drawn up under will operate all women shortlists will be made.
these procedures will also be in use for candidates for 9. Potential candidates and national panel members
the European Parliamentary Elections to be held in June must conform to the code of conduct as in section
2009. 17 below.
B. General 10. Where the prospective parliamentary candidate
has been selected and subsequently intimates
1. A procedure for the selection of prospective her or his intention not to stand for Parliament in
parliamentary candidates (PPCs) is provided for by the constituency as the official Labour Party
5C of the national rules of the Labour Party and is candidate, the procedure set out in this section
further detailed in these procedural rules. (subject to Chapter 5 of the rule book and these
2. Advice must always be sought from the procedural rules) shall be set in motion again.
appropriate regional office before implementing 11. When a constituency party has selected its
any part of the procedure. Departures from these prospective parliamentary candidate, it shall only
guidelines to meet local circumstances must be be given permission to reconsider that selection if
sanctioned by the NEC designated representative the NEC, having received a written request from
for the selection who shall usually be the the General Committee, has decided that in its
Regional Director or someone deputed by them opinion there are changed circumstances relating
(for the purposes of these procedures the term to the prospective parliamentary candidate since
‘Regional Director’ includes the Scottish and her or his selection and has given authority to
Welsh General Secretaries of the Party). that party to convene a special meeting of the
3. A selection pack will be issued to CLP secretaries General Committee to consider a resolution that
at the commencement of the procedure giving the prospective candidate selected previously
detailed guidance on particular aspects of the shall not be the candidate at the next general
procedure along with model forms and letters. A election. If such authority is given, the secretary
separate selection pack will be issued covering of the constituency party concerned shall
the procedures for MP’s trigger ballots (section 4 convene the special meeting, at which the
below). resolution must be passed by a simple majority of
those eligible delegates present at the meeting.
The prospective parliamentary candidate against
Chapter 19
Appendix III
NEC procedural rules on selection of Parliamentary Candidates Page 76 of 100

whom such action is taken shall have the right of delay to the commencement of the process, an
appeal to the NEC who shall have the power to earlier freeze date will be fixed by the NEC.
confirm, vary or reverse the action taken by the 3. No new or increased affiliations or filling of
General Committee. vacancies in delegations may be accepted for the
12. Where a parliamentary by-election occurs in a purposes of this procedure after the freeze date
constituency, the NEC shall take whatever action until the selection is completed – except for
may be necessary to ensure that the vacancy is changes of Labour Party Branch Secretaries.
contested by a duly endorsed Labour candidate. 4. Any new party unit or affiliated organisation
13. The NEC shall each year elect a by-election panel established after the freeze date shall not be
to initiate and oversee such action and deal with allowed representation on the General Committee
other matters delegated to it. during the selection procedure.
A. The NEC shall as far as practicable, co-operate D. National panel
with the Executive Committee of the
constituency party concerned in drawing up a 1. The NEC shall establish a parliamentary panel
timetable for the adoption of a candidate. The from candidates who have the opportunity to
by elections panel may require the take part in training and assessment sessions
constituency party concerned to adopt a organised on a regional, national and specialist
particular candidate or select a candidate from (eg women, BAME members) basis. Those
a number of such nominees. Whenever timing members on the parliamentary panel in use for
permits, the by-elections panel shall submit a the 2005 general election will remain on the
suitable number of the nominees to a ballot of panel following the submission of a completed
eligible individual members of the new application form. Regional Directors have the
constituency party, in line with the procedures discretion to call for interview any member of the
laid down by the NEC for the selection of 2005 panel, having given due reason in writing.
parliamentary candidates modified as The home constituency party of any member on
necessary to meet the circumstances of the the panel, or the constituency where they were a
particular by election. candidate in 2005, may make representation to
the Regional Director requesting a further
B. The NEC shall give advice and guidance on the
interview of a current NPP member, having given
conduct of the campaign for the by election
due reason in writing.
and be responsible for the appointment of the
election agent for the campaign. 2. Candidates recommended by nationally affiliated
organisations through their own processes shall
14. A candidate elected at a parliamentary by- automatically be included on the parliamentary
election after the first 18 months of a Parliament
panel subject to agreement between the NEC and
shall not be subject to re-selection during the life
the affiliate that their process reaches the criteria
of that Parliament. for accreditation.
15. An election shall cancel any parliamentary 3. The NEC shall agree clear minimum standards
candidature.
together with a statement of candidate qualities
C. Freeze dates to be used as a guideline for regions and
affiliates.
1. For the purposes of these selections, freeze dates
for individual membership eligibility and 4. The NEC shall approve a thorough programme to
constituency delegates and affiliations shall be promote the increased representation of women,
established in agreement with the Regional BAME members, disabled members and those
Director. All affiliations and delegations to CLPs from manual and clerical backgrounds on the
and membership lists to be used in the course of national panel.
this procedure shall be frozen at these dates 5. An initial list of those included on the
together with the percentage of the CLP parliamentary panel shall be published in
membership contained within each party branch. sufficient time to enable full selections at a
In deciding on a freeze-date to establish eligibility constituency level to commence. It may be
to participate, the Regional Director shall have brought up to date from time to time as additional
regard to the state of membership of the CLP and candidates emerge from the process and there
any prima facie evidence of abuse of the code of shall be special arrangements made for by-
conduct for membership recruitment and any elections and other cases where selections arise
other factors which the Regional Director may unexpectedly.
think relevant. 6. The panel so published shall be made available to
2. Where there is a re-selection process for a sitting CLPs on an advisory basis only. Any member who
Labour MP(s) the “Freeze Date” for each CLP will meets the twelve months membership criteria
be the date at which the designated (see 5.f below) may seek selection in
representative meets with the executive constituencies which embark on an open
committee (general committee if no executive selection (under section 9 onwards below),
committee is in place) to draw up a timetable. subject to an overriding NEC decision for an all
Where the NEC determines there are special woman shortlist.
circumstances, or when there is an unforeseen
Chapter 19
Appendix III

7. The NEC shall publish detailed guidance on the be considered for selection for a seat that has
operation of the panel to ensure that shall be as an MP(s) with a substantial territorial interest
clear, open and transparent as possible. A seeking re-selection unless the decision of the
candidates unit shall be established at head office CLP in the trigger ballot is to move to an open
to coordinate the administration of the panel selection.
process and provide a point of reference for all B. For the purposes of reselection, a substantial
interested candidates and parties undertaking territorial interest is defined as 40 per cent or
selections. more of registered electors of the previous
8. Any Panel applicant who applies through the parliamentary constituency as at the freeze
Party’s procedures and fails to be included on the date transferring to the new parliamentary
NPP shall have the right of appeal. The NEC will constituency.
authorise an appeal panel to hear the appeal, C. Any sitting MP, who has a territorial interest
whose decision shall be final. in a new parliamentary constituency, but not
to the extent of 40 per cent, may
E. Trigger ballots for MPs through nominations
nonetheless, at the discretion of the NEC,
by party units and affiliates challenge a colleague who does have a
1. Having approved a freeze date for the trigger substantial territorial interest within that
mechanism as in 2(b) above, the NEC shall set a parliamentary constituency.
timetable for nominations from all eligible party D. Any sitting MP representing any part of the
units and affiliates to make an indication as to new Constituency and therefore with a
whether or not they wish to select their MP territorial interest should be informed of the
without ‘triggering’ a full selection process. timetable and the procedure and be supplied
2. If, by the date set a majority of those party units with a list of secretaries of nominating
and affiliated branches (that make an indication) organisations. Trigger ballots shall, where
indicate a preference not to proceed to a full possible, be conducted in 4 phases as follows:
selection process, the MP concerned shall be i. Phase I - two MPs seeking selection in a
deemed to be selected as prospective seat where they both have a substantial
parliamentary candidate for the constituency territorial interest.
concerned subject to NEC endorsement as in
section 15 below. a. Where there are two MPs with a
substantial territorial interest (40 per
3. In the case of more than one MP contesting the cent or more) who indicate their
trigger ballot, if, by the date set, a majority of intentions to seek selection in the
those party units and affiliated branches (that same Constituency then both MPs
make an indication) indicate a preference not to will go forward to party units and
proceed to a full selection process, the MPs affiliated organisations for
concerned shall be deemed to be the shortlist for acceptance to form the shortlist as
selection. set out in 4.1 above. If a majority of
4. If 50 per cent or more of party units and affiliated party units and of affiliated
branches (that make an indication) determine organisations accept the shortlist,
they wish the ballot to be opened up then a full then an OMOV postal ballot of eligible
open selection as set out in section 9 below will members with hustings meeting/s
be postponed until Phase IV of the trigger ballots and the opportunity for canvassing
(as per 4.3(h) below) has been completed. will be conducted to determine the
5. Sitting MPs who have been re-selected through final candidate.
this trigger mechanism shall not be eligible to b. If 50 per cent or more of party units
seek selection in any other constituency during and affiliated organisations
the particular round of selections, except where determine they wish the ballot to be
there are exceptional circumstances which are opened up then a full open selection
agreed by the NEC. The NEC will issue procedural will be postponed until Phase IV of
guidelines on the management of the trigger the trigger ballots has been
ballot process. completed.
6. Where sitting MP’s do not have constituency ii. Phase II - selections where more than
boundary changes MPs who do not have one MP with a territorial interest
constituency boundary changes shall face a expresses an interest in a seat, and at
trigger vote in their existing constituency unless least one of the MPs interest is NOT a
otherwise determined by the NEC. substantial territorial interest.
7. Where sitting MP’s have constituency boundary a. It will be for the NEC to determine (as
changes per 4.3(c) above) whether or not MPs
A. The General Secretary will invite sitting MPs who have less than a substantial
to indicate which, if any, constituencies they territorial interest in the seat can
wish to seek selection for. MPs who do not contest the trigger ballot. MPs with a
have any territorial interest in a seat cannot substantial territorial interest,
together with those MPs with less
Chapter 19
Appendix III

than a substantial territorial interest to reach a majority of party units and

whom the NEC has determined can affiliated organisations then a full
contest the reselection trigger ballot, open selection will be postponed until
will go forward to party units and Phase IV of the trigger ballots has
affiliated organisations for been completed.
acceptance to form the shortlist as
set out in 4.1 above. If a majority of F. Candidates
party units and of affiliated 1. Members of the national panel and other
organisations accept the shortlist, potential nominees shall be invited to indicate an
then an OMOV postal ballot of eligible interest in seeking selection by submitting an
members with hustings meeting/s application for a particular constituency on a
and the opportunity for canvassing standard application form provided by the NEC.
will be conducted to determine the 2. The completed forms referred to above must be
final candidate. submitted to the procedures secretary (see 5(e)
b. If 50 per cent or more of party units below) by the date laid down in the timetable.
and affiliated organisations Only those who have registered an interest in this
determine they wish the ballot to be way shall be considered for shortlisting.
opened up then the full selection will 3. The candidates’ code of conduct (see 17(b)
be postponed until Phase IV of the below) specifies the entitlements of an aspiring
trigger ballots has been completed. nominee to receive lists of party units, affiliated
iii. Phase III - one MP only seeking selection organisations and the membership for the
in a seat in which they have a substantial constituency.
territorial interest 40 per cent. 4. Any member of a CLP seeking nomination and
a. Subject to paragraph 4.3(c) above, if selection must not be present or participate in
only one MP has a substantial any agenda item of any CLP or party unit
territorial interest (40 per cent or meetings dealing with the selection process,
more) in the new parliamentary except that s/he shall be entitled to a postal vote
constituency and is nominated by a in the selection ballot if shortlisted.
majority of party units and affiliated 5. Where the CLP Secretary is an aspiring nominee
organisations as set out in 4.1 above, or is otherwise unable to act, the procedures shall
the MP concerned should be deemed be conducted by another CLP office-holder
to be selected subject to approved by the Regional Director. This officer
endorsement by the NEC. If however, shall be known as the CLP procedures secretary.
the one MP with a substantial
territorial interest (40 per cent or 6. Candidates must have twelve months continuous
more) fails to reach a majority of membership of the Labour Party and be in
party units and affiliated compliance with the membership rules on the
organisations then a full open closing date for expressions of interest for the
selection will be postponed until particular constituency, except in exceptional
Phase IV of the trigger ballots has circumstances to be agreed by the NEC.
been completed. 7. Members of the European Parliament, Members of
iv. Phase IV - one MP seeking selection in a the Scottish Parliament, Members of the National
seat in which they have less than a Assembly for Wales, members of the Greater
substantial territorial interest. London Authority, and directly elected Labour
Mayors may seek nomination as Labour
a. If an MP who has less than a 40 per candidates for the Westminster Parliament but
cent substantial territorial interest only with the express ermission of the NEC
expresses an interest then it will be whose decision shall be final.
for the NEC to determine (as per
4.3(c) above) whether or not they can 8. No person who has been disqualified as a local
contest a selection trigger ballot. If government candidate under the rules of the
only one MP with less than a party or by the decision of party conference shall
substantial territorial interest in the be eligible for nomination or selection as a
new parliamentary constituency, who parliamentary candidate.
has the permission of the NEC to 9. When the Speaker of the House of Commons was
contest the selection trigger ballot, is originally elected as a Labour MP and is standing
nominated by a majority of party for re-election, no selection procedure shall be
units and affiliated organisations as carried out in her/his constituency or any new
set out in 4.1 above, the MP constituency comprising the majority of the
concerned should be deemed to be former seat and there shall be no Labour Party
selected subject to endorsement by candidate.
the NEC. 10. Labour candidates for parliamentary elections
b. If however, the one MP with less than shall appear before the electors under the
a substantial territorial interest fails designation of ‘The Labour Party candidate’ or
Chapter 19
Appendix III

‘The Labour and Co-operative Party candidate’, with matters referred to an Executive or General
except in Scotland and Wales and in exceptional Committee will be determined by the Regional
circumstances where the designation shall be Director following consultation with the CLP and
approved by the NEC. At full parliamentary the NEC.
elections they shall include in their election
address, and give prominence in their campaigns H. Membership
to, the issues for that election as defined by the 1. All individual members of the CLP registered on
NEC in their manifesto. Every parliamentary the national membership system, and who have
candidate must undertake to stand as ‘The Labour been members of this CLP for six months on the
Party candidate’ independent of all other political freeze date, and who remain in compliance with
parties and, if elected, join the PLP and having the membership rules shall be eligible to
done so abide by its standing orders. participate in the procedure.
11. Any candidate who after election fails to accept 2. To be eligible to vote in the ballot, members must
or act in harmony with the standing orders of the be fully paid-up with subscription payments on
PLP shall be considered to have violated the the closing date for postal vote applications.
terms of these procedural rules. 3. Party branches shall be notified by the
G. Delegates procedures secretary of those members eligible to
participate in the process. Any dispute about
1. Only accredited delegates may be present at eligibility shall be resolved by reference to the
General and Executive Committee meetings up to party’s Compliance unit.
and including the shortlisting except for
designated representatives of the NEC. 4. Only members of the branch or party unit shall
attend meetings of a branch or party unit dealing
2. The delegates entitled to attend are those with the selection procedure, except for persons
appointed by organisations entitled to designated to oversee proceedings or invited
representation on the General Committee and no candidates.
additional or substitute delegates shall be
allowed after the freeze date except for 5. No ‘visitors’ other than interested candidates
permanent changes of Branch Secretary. (where it is appropriate) shall be allowed at any
party meeting relevant to the selection process.
3. Delegates must either reside or be registered
electors in the constituency. I. Statement of candidates’ qualities
4. Delegates from party units must either reside or 1. A Statement of Candidates’ Qualities shall be
be registered as electors in the area designated issued as part of the Selections Pack. This may be
to be covered by the party unit. modified by the CLP Executive Committee at the
5. A designated representative of the NEC (the timetable meeting to meet local circumstances
designated representative) shall check that no subject to the approval of the Regional Director.
organisation has more delegates than the number Briefing in equal opportunities requirements shall
to which it is entitled on the basis of the be made available to delegates and others
membership of the party branch or affiliation fees involved in administering the selection process.
paid as at the end of the preceding year. The J. Constituency Timetable – open selections
operation of quotas shall also be checked.
1. The regional office shall consult with the
6. The list of accredited delegates to the General Executive Committee of the CLP to draw up a
Committee and their addresses shall be made timetable. It shall include the closing date for
available to the Executive Committee at the nominations, postal vote applications, shortlisting,
commencement of the process. The list shall be selection and other dates set out in the draft
reported to the shortlisting meeting and any timetable in 9(c) below.
delegate may challenge the credentials of any
other delegate. Any disputes over eligibility shall 2. This timetable must be ratified by the party’s
be resolved by the designated representative Compliance unit on behalf of the NEC.
whose decision, after consultation with the 3. Model timetable: The target weeks indicated are
appropriate CLP Officers, shall be final. for guidance only and some flexibility is expected
7. All delegates must attend a briefing on the to cope with scheduling of local party meetings
requirements of the shortlisting procedure to etc.
entitle them to participate in the shortlisting
process.
8. Where a CLP does not have an Executive or
General Committee in place, as is the case in
many CLPs which have moved to “all member
meetings”, the make up of the body that deals
Chapter 19
Appendix III

Draft Timetable
Stage Week Date
Executive Committee (EC) to draw up timetable and agree 0
(subject to appeal) membership list based on freeze date
set by NEC
Composition of GC shortlisting committee to be confirmed 0
and briefing session(s) arranged.
List of party branches, and the per cent of the CLP 0
membership contained within each party branch to be
agreed.
List of other party units and affiliates to be agreed 0
Notice of procedure to party units and affiliates and to 1
‘interested aspiring candidates’
Notice to members and postal vote application 2
Closing date for declaration as aspiring candidate 3-1/2
*Opportunities for aspiring candidates to meet members 4 to 5
(earliest 4 days after closing date for declaration)
Membership appeals to NEC representative 5
EC to consider detailed arrangements for ballot 5
*Nomination procedure for party units 6 to 7
Closing date for PV applications Qualifying date for 8
subscriptions being paid up to date
Closing date for nominations from party units and 8
affiliates
Shortlist committee to conduct interviews and establish 8 to 9
shortlist
Issue of ballot papers to postal voters 10
Notice of hustings meeting/s to members 10
Hustings meeting/s 12
Count 12
*You must specify start and closing dates for these
procedures.
4. A copy of the timetable, an invitation to nominate of procedure in a standard format provided by the
and the agreed statement of candidate’s NEC. The notice shall include:
qualities, must be sent to all affiliated and party A. an explanation of the process and outline
organisations with the notice of procedure timetable
directly following (and in any event no more than
B. notice of meetings with potential candidates
one week later than) the date the timetable is
and local nomination meetings
agreed. At the same time organisations should be
informed that affiliations, delegations and C. the agreed statement of candidates’ qualities
membership have been frozen in relation to the D. preliminary notice of dates of hustings
selection procedure at the freeze date(s) meetings
confirmed by the NEC. E. a postal vote application form.
5. In the second week of the process all eligible 6. Any sitting Labour MP currently representing any
members should be sent through their local part of the constituency and therefore with a
branch party (or CLP) a notice of commencement territorial interest shall be informed of the
Chapter 19
Appendix III

timetable and the procedure and be supplied with shall be obliged to submit the names of up to two
a list of secretaries of eligible party and affiliated women with at least one being a BAME candidate
organisations. in the event that at least one BAME candidate has
7. At the commencement of any timetable the expressed an interest in the seat at the deadline
Regional Director or the designated for expressions of interest. Other party units and
representative for the particular selection shall affiliated branches need only make one
discuss with the CLP Executive the requirements nomination but may nominate up to two women,
of the timetable and brief them concerning the with at least one being a BAME candidate in the
procedure and the use of the Statement of event that at least one BAME candidate has
Candidates Qualities. A briefing for GC delegates expressed an interest in the seat at the deadline
involved in shortlisting shall also be arranged. for expressions of interest, if they so wish. Any
nominations for men in a seat designated as an all
8. Lists of those on the national panel of candidates women shortlist will be ruled invalid.
shall be made available to procedures secretaries
for the use of party units and affiliated 6. The requirement for party branches to nominate
organisations in the constituency. as set out in 10(d) and 10(e) above may be
waived by the Regional Director in constituencies
9. Candidates who wish to do so may indicate their which are unlikely to secure many expressions of
interest in a particular selection by application to interest.
the CLP and nominating organisations using a
standard form as in 5(a) above. A final closing 7. Nominations must be made at a duly convened
date shall be fixed for the receipt of such meeting taking into account any application forms
expressions of interest (see timetable in 9(c) received. Any interviews or informal meetings
above). with interested candidates must be completed
prior to the commencement of such a meeting.
K. Nominations Detailed procedural advice on conducting branch
1. Following the closing date for receipt of nomination meetings and local interviews shall be
expressions of interest (see 9(i) above), those issued by the NEC.
which conform to the standard format will be sent L. Shortlisting
to the appropriate party unit secretaries. CLP
procedures secretaries shall ensure that any 1. Each CLP shall draw up a shortlist against the
other organisations entitled to nominate are Statement of Candidates Qualities agreed at the
informed that they are entitled to a copy of the commencement of the process. The shortlisting
set of applications and where they may obtain it. committee shall also have copies of the relevant
application forms available.
2. CLPs and Branches should create as many
opportunities as possible for interested 2. The CLP General Committee shall invite all those
candidates to meet members prior to the nominated by party units and affiliated
meetings to make nominations for and draw up a organisations to a gathering to allow GC
shortlist. Such opportunities must be available on delegates to meet them. All those nominated
a fair and equal basis to all candidates. shall be treated equally in ensuring access to all
delegates. Where candidates are asked to address
3. Party units and affiliated organisations eligible to the gathering they must all be given the same
do so may make nominations from among those opportunity and time.
who have expressed an interest to the CLP
General Committee for consideration. 3. The General Committee shall meet as a
Shortlisting Committee and shall draw up their
4. Where party branches nominate, with the shortlist with due regard to the nominations
exception set out in 10(e) below, they shall be made by party units and affiliates.
obliged to submit the names of up to three
candidates with at least one being a woman and 4. Where the cumulative per cent of the
at least one being a BAME candidate in the event memberships of branches nominating any one
that at least one BAME candidate has expressed candidate exceeds 50 per cent of the total
an interest in the seat at the deadline for membership of the CLP then that candidate will
expressions of interest. Other party units and automatically be shortlisted.
affiliated branches need only make one 5. Where no sitting Labour MP is contesting the
nomination but may nominate up to three seat, and other than where an all woman shortlist
candidates with at least one being a woman and has been designated by the NEC, there shall be at
at least one being a BAME candidate if they so least 50 per cent women on the shortlist. If six or
wish. A step by step procedural guideline, which more are nominated there shall be a minimum of
must be followed, will be produced by the NEC six on any shortlist. This is subject to a sufficient
and will be included in the selection pack. Any number of both men and women being nominated
party unit or affiliated organisation making more (ie should five men and two women be nominated
than one nomination must follow the NEC the shortlist would be three men and two
procedural guideline when nominating women). Where an all women shortlist is in place
candidates. there shall be a minimum of six on the shortlist,
5. Where there is an all women shortlist in provided six women have been nominated.
operation, party branches choosing to nominate
Chapter 19
Appendix III

6. Any sitting Labour MP representing a 4. Shortlisted candidates should be informed in

constituency that is wholly or partially contained advance of the details of hustings meetings and
within the area of the CLP shall be automatically arrangements may be made to timetable the
included on the shortlist if they choose to contest order of appearance in advance. There must be at
the seat and are nominated. least one hustings meeting in each constituency
7. The NEC shall issue equal opportunity guidelines but where circumstances allow it members should
for such meetings and any interviews that are be allowed to attend any one of the hustings
undertaken. meetings by prior arrangement.
8. All nominees shall go into the ballot for such 5. Notices convening the selection meeting/s shall
places and the final shortlist shall be decided by a be sent to all eligible members at least seven
single round secret preferential vote. Detailed days before the meeting. They shall be produced
regulations for such counts shall be issued by the locally and use the wording in the model
NEC in the selection pack. convening notice supplied by the NEC. The notice
shall inform members of the requirements to
9. Once the shortlist has been determined it shall be attend punctually, produce evidence of current
forwarded to the appropriate Regional Director membership and append the application forms of
for validation. the shortlisted candidates.
10. The term validation does not imply ‘approval’ but 6. A designated representative of the NEC shall be
refers to the particulars on the form, that the present at the selection meeting/s to advise and
nominee conforms to the conditions for supervise the procedure.
candidature as laid down in the constitution and
rules for selection, that the nomination was to 7. On entering the hustings each member must
hand by the appropriate closing date and present to the appointed door stewards the
submitted by an organisation entitled to prescribed credential form together with proof of
nominate. identity such as a current party membership card.
Where there is any challenge to a member’s
11. In the event of insufficient nominations being identity further proof (eg of residence) may be
secured the timetable may be extended in required by the designated representative.
consultation with the designated representative
and Regional Director to allow for further 8. Before any nominee is invited into the hustings
nominations to be considered. room the door stewards should be asked to report
on the number of eligible members present. The
M. Members’ ballot first nominee shall then be asked to speak.
1. The ballot shall be conducted according to a list Members arriving after the door stewards report
provided from the national membership system of has been accepted shall not be permitted to enter
all those who qualify on the freeze date and the meeting or participate in the proceedings.
remain in compliance with the membership rules 9. Each shortlisted nominee shall address the
on the closing date for the receipt of postal vote meeting and answer questions in accordance with
applications. Members who are able to do so must the agreed time-limits. Any time not used in
attend a hustings meeting to hear the shortlisted making a statement shall not be added to the
nominees before casting their vote. period allowed for questions.
2. All eligible members will be sent details of the 10. No question on financial means or support,
shortlist, hustings meetings, copies of the religion, or of a racist, sexist, homophobic or anti-
nominees’ applications and an explanation of how disabled nature shall be permitted. If languages
to vote by the date laid down in the timetable. other than English are used in the course of
Members in arrears must be offered the questions or the statement it shall be the
opportunity to bring subscriptions up to date to responsibility of the nominee and/or the
ensure their eligibility. questioner to ensure that everyone present is
3. Procedural arrangements should as far as possible able to understand the point. Any repetition or
be agreed by the Executive Committee at the translation must be done within the agreed time
commencement of the process. Those to be limits, which may be extended accordingly.
considered include: 11. An arrangement may be made to ask all
A. maximum time limits for statements and candidates the same questions. Individuals may
questions at the hustings be deputed to draw up questions by the
shortlisting meeting.
B. order of appearances
12. Once the final nominee has withdrawn, the
C. appointment of scrutineers
scrutineers shall issue ballot papers to the
D. door stewarding arrangements number reported by the door stewards. Ballot
E. chairing of hustings. papers must be returned to the ballot box before
F. Any outstanding matters shall be delegated to members leave the room. Where felt necessary by
the procedures secretary to resolve with the the designated representative, however, each
approval of the designated representative for member shall come forward to collect their ballot
the selection. paper in response to a roll call and if desirable
deposit their vote in the ballot box on the way
Chapter 19
Appendix III

out of the room. In exceptional cases the ballot supervision of the NEC designated
box may be located in a separate polling area. representative.
N. Postal vote 4. The shortlisting committee shall appoint up to
TWELVE members of the GC as scrutineers for the
1. Any member may apply for a postal vote on the ballot in addition to the procedures secretary at
appropriate form. All eligible members shall be least half of whom should be women. Other
informed about the postal voting provisions at eligible GC delegates may observe the count.
the beginning of the process. The form must be
properly completed, signed by the individual and 5. Each candidate may appoint an official
submitted to the procedures secretary by the representative for the count who must be a
date laid down in the timetable. member of the CLP concerned.
2. The grounds for requiring a postal vote must be 6. Postal voters declarations of identities must be
stated on the application. verified against the list of agreed postal voters.
Any postal vote without an accompanying
3. Postal votes shall only be granted to those who declaration of identity shall be invalid. The
are unable to attend a hustings meeting – not to signature on the application form and the
those who choose not to attend. Postal votes will declaration of identity must match or the vote
be granted for those who cannot attend due to a will be declared invalid.
medical condition, cannot make reasonable travel
arrangements, are away on holiday, have work 7. The count shall be conducted by means of an
commitments or caring responsibilities or any eliminating ballot on the basis of expressed
other appropriate reason for non-attendance at preferences. Each valid vote shall have the value
the hustings as agreed by the NEC designate of one at all stages of the count. No candidate
representative. They will not be made available to shall succeed in being selected until s/he has
those choosing to undertake other engagements more than 50 per cent of valid votes cast in a
unless they are candidates for selection in this particular round of the count (discounting spoilt,
process. invalid and non-transferable papers).
4. Any eligible member who, after the closing date 8. In the event of any disputed votes the decision of
for postal votes but before the date for their the designated representative shall be final for all
selection meeting becomes unexpectedly purposes, though the CLP procedures secretaries
unavailable to attend a hustings meeting or for shall be consulted.
good reason fails to attend at the due time may 9. In the event of a tie, the nominee concerned who
apply to tender an emergency postal vote. Such took the earliest lead on preferences shall be
application must be made directly to the deemed elected or go through to the next round.
designated representative for the selection 10. If over 50 per cent of those voting return blank
whose decision as to whether or not to accept papers, the procedure shall recommence but the
such a tendered vote shall be final for all freeze date shall continue to operate.
purposes.
11. The final result shall be announced to the General
5. No shortlisted nominee or any person acting on Committee, to which all shortlisted candidates
behalf of a nominee should benefit from shall be invited. A record of the voting at each
interference in the process of applications for, or stage completed on a pro forma shall be retained
the issue and return of, postal votes. Any by the procedures secretary for the CLP and the
evidence of such interference may lead to the designated representative for the NEC.
disqualification of the nominee concerned.
6. Postal votes shall be returned to the designated
P. Financial agreement and endorsement
representative/procedures secretary who shall 1. Three copies of the acceptance of financial
deposit the unopened envelope containing the responsibility should be completed and signed by
ballot form and declaration of identity into a the CLP chair and secretary and the successful
sealed box awaiting the count. The return candidate, to comply with 5C.9 of the
envelope for the ballot paper shall be referenced constitutional rules. (Copies to be held by the CLP,
so that it can be verified against the electoral roll. the regional office and the NEC).
2. The candidate will be required to sign forms
O. Voting procedure and count
agreeing to abide by the code of conduct laid
1. The selection of candidate shall be decided by down by the Parliamentary Labour Party, and also
reference to the preferences expressed in the a register of interests. All these forms must be
ballot which shall be conducted on the basis of submitted to the Head of the Compliance unit.
one member one vote. The Election Agent will have to be endorsed by
2. The designated representative shall retain the NEC, and will be required to have undertaken
possession of all ballot boxes until the count. the necessary training unless the NEC deems
3. The ballot box will be opened at a special General there are exceptional circumstances.
Committee meeting to count the votes. Votes will 3. Where successful candidates are not members of
be counted by scrutineers as an aggregate the national recommended panel there should,
together with postal votes received by the however, be an endorsement interview in each
closing date. The scrutineers shall work under the case before a recommendation is made to the
Chapter 19
Appendix III

NEC. The criteria for the endorsement interview Jan 07 Determine positive action
for new selections shall be approved by the NEC procedures for seats
and carried out by an NEC selections board – or (nominally) with retiring MP
regional nominees of that board. The NEC May 07 Commence selections in
selections board would only interview sitting MPs winnable seats and seats
following a referral from the whips office (MPs (nominally) with retiring MP –
would thus in effect be treated as members of followed by all other seats
the national panel providing they were not
Sept 08 All selections to be commenced
subject to a Whip’s report).
4. The selection of a prospective candidate shall not R. Parliamentary Selections - Candidates’ code
be regarded as completed until endorsement has of conduct
been given by the National Executive Committee. 1. This code of conduct has been produced for all
5. Disputes arising out of the selection procedure aspiring candidates in the selection of
which cannot be mutually agreed between the parliamentary candidates, in order to assist the
complainant/s and the designated representative smooth running of all stages of the process.
shall be referred to an NEC approved independent 2. No materials calling for support in the selection
Selection Monitor for investigation and report to process will be produced or distributed by or on
the NEC. The NEC’s decision on that report shall behalf of any individual prior to the publication of
be final and binding on all parties for all purposes. the timetable following the Executive Committee
Q. NEC Timescale for selections meeting to commence the selection process
within a CLP.
1. The following timescale is an outline of events as
agreed by the NEC, and will be subject to A. Following the publication of the timetable
alteration by the NEC according to the situation aspiring candidates must submit an
pertaining at any given time. application form (this must be in a standard
CV format provided by the party) to the CLP
Date Event procedures secretary. Forms received before
Jan 06 Open National Parliamentary the publication of the timetable or after the
Panel (NPP) deadline prescribed in the timetable will not
Jan 06 Determine list of non-Labour be accepted.
held seats with no existing MP B. Aspiring candidates who submit an application
with geographical claim – These form within the prescribed period will be
seats select from June 2006 entitled to a list of Party Units and Affiliates
Jan – Mar 06 Determine positive action (including the per cent of the CLP membership
procedures for June 2006 contained within each party branch) from the
selections CLP. Aspiring candidates who submit an
application form within the prescribed period
Jan – May 06 Advertise NPP to all members –
who also wish to have a list of eligible
Applicants to apply by 1st
members are entitled to a copy from the
March for interview to be held
Regional Office following submission of an
by end May for seats that will
administration fee of £20.
select in June 2006. Interviews
for all other applicants will 3. The list of eligible members is supplied solely for
continue beyond this point. the purposes of the current selection campaign of
the aspiring candidate to which it is supplied and
Jan – May 06 Implement all known
is not transferable to any other campaign or
constituency boundary changes
person. Use of the list for any other purpose will
Jan – Jun 06 Interview new NPP applicants lead to disqualification as an aspiring candidate
Jan – Jun 06 Training sessions and taster and potential further disciplinary action.
events for Panel applicants 4. Should an aspiring candidate be shortlisted by the
Jun – Dec 06 Selections in non-Labour held CLP the application form will be forwarded by the
seats with no existing MP who procedures secretary to all eligible members with
has a geographical claim notice of the CLP ballot.
July 06 Write to MPs asking them if 5. Following publication of the timetable aspiring
they intend to contest the next candidates are permitted to mail members direct,
election – reply by 15 as well as Labour Party Units and affiliated
September 2006 organisations, with any canvassing/promotional
Oct 06 Re-selection of MPs to material.
commence, starting with those 6. No aspiring candidates or persons acting on
seats where more than one behalf of an aspiring candidate will use their own
sitting MP has a geographical material or access to publicity to disparage any
claim other aspiring candidate.
7. Canvassing is specifically allowed after an
application form has been accepted, and from this
Chapter 19
Appendix III

period onwards aspiring candidates may approach

members personally or by telephone to seek their
support. Contact with members must not be
carried out in a manner likely to cause offence or
be seen as applying pressure to any member.
8. No financial inducement to the constituency party
or to individual members may be offered to
attempt to secure support.
9. Only designated CLP officers will be authorised to
issue statements to the media about any aspect
of the selection procedure, and then only after
consultation with the Regional Director. This does
not preclude aspiring candidates undertaking
press, Radio or TV interviews, though under no
circumstances should any aspiring candidate
disparage any other aspiring candidate.
10. Applications for postal votes and the postal ballot
itself will be distributed only through the official
machinery. No aspiring candidate or supporter(s)
of an aspiring candidate will attempt to interfere
in the application for, casting, and return of postal
votes.
11. Once an aspiring candidate has declared an
interest in a constituency s/he cannot attend any
meeting within the CLP that is dealing with
selection business, unless specifically invited in
their role as an aspiring candidate.
12. No aspiring candidate or members acting on
her/his behalf will interfere with or put under
duress any member in regard to how they vote at
any stage during the process.
13. Aspiring candidates (and those making donations
of money or in kind to their selection campaign)
are regulated by the Political Parties, Elections &
Referendum Act and are required to comply with
the provisions on accepting and reporting of
donations of over £200.
14. Any member breaching this code of conduct or
knowingly allowing others to do so on her/his
behalf will be liable for disciplinary action. The
NEC will not hesitate to use its powers of
disqualification and suspension to impose
sanctions to enforce the code.
Chapter 19
Appendix III

H. final date for completion of selections.
Chapter 20 3. The panel remains in existence following an

election until a new panel is nominated and
endorsed. The panel is therefore available for any
Appendix IV by-elections in this period. This later date (1g) is
so that LGCs can plan for a period without new
endorsements whilst high priority selections are
taking place. The panel cannot be closed as such
so all nominations must be dealt with at an
NEC Procedural Rules appropriate time.
for the selection of local B. Positive action procedures

1. For authorities with all-out elections
government Candidates A. The Regional Director/General Secretary in
Scotland and Wales will agree a list of
for elections in 2008 winnable wards with the LGC
B. In winnable wards with two or three members,
at least one candidate must be a woman
C. For selection in a winnable ward, the ballot
will take place in two parts. The first ballot
will select a woman from the shortlist and the
(Revised October 2007) second ballot will select the remaining
These procedural rules supplement Chapter 5 of the candidates from the entire shortlist.
Labour Party rule book – selections for election to public D. If the ward fails to implement these positive
office, and provide a framework for Local Government action procedures then the selection will be
Committees (LGCs) and Constituency Labour Parties invalid and the Regional Director/General
(CLPs) to follow when conducting selections of local Secretary in Scotland and Wales will require
government candidates. the ward to re-run its selection procedures.
Local Government Committees and CLPs must also follow 2. For authorities with elections where one third or
the good practice advice on these procedures as one half of seats are up for election
provided from time to time by the NEC.
A. In all winnable wards/divisions where a sitting
A. Selection timetable councillor is retiring, at least one candidate
1. The executive of the Local Government must be a woman.
Committee (‘LGC’) shall prepare a timetable for B. If there are more women retirees than men
the selection procedure. All timetables and/or any then the current proportion of women
variance to any of the selection procedures must candidates must be maintained.
be approved by the Regional Director/General 3. For each local authority area the Regional
Secretary in Scotland and Wales or other national Director/General Secretary in Scotland and Wales
officer as determined by the General Secretary on will:
behalf of the NEC.
A. agree a list of winnable seats with the Local
2. The timetable should identify various stages as Government Committee; and
follows:
B. determine which winnable seats will be
A. invitation for nominations to the panel of selected from an all-woman shortlist and
approved candidates which from an open shortlist.
B. initial closing date for receipt of nominations C. If a ward fails to implement the agreed
C. proposed interviewing procedure for those positive action procedure then the selection
who require an interview will be invalid and the Regional
D. date of Management Committee to decide on Director/General Secretary in Scotland and
endorsement of initial applications Wales will require that the ward to re-run its
selection process.
E. submission of initial list of approved nominees
(‘the panel’) to CLPs and ward selection 4. The Regional Director/General Secretary in
committees Scotland and Wales has the authority to vary the
arrangements within a given ward due to what
F. the agreed order for selection meetings (ie they regard as exceptional circumstances,
first priority to Labour seats, second to provided reciprocal arrangements are made to
winnable seats and last to other seats)
G. date for reopening of endorsement procedure,
where this is appropriate∗
any by-elections in this period. This later date (1g) is so that LGCs
can plan for a period without new endorsements whilst high priority
∗
The panel remains in existence following an election until a new selections are taking place. The panel cannot be closed as such so all
panel is nominated and endorsed. The panel is therefore available for nominations must be dealt with at an appropriate time.
Chapter 20
Appendix IV
NEC Procedural Rules for the selection of local government Candidates for elections in 2008 Page 87 of 100
ensure that the overall level of women’s sitting councillor whose sole legal qualification for
representation is achieved. standing for election in the local government area
is existing service as a councillor.
C. Panel of approved candidates
1. The LGC will invite nominations for the Panel of E. Endorsement of applicants to the panel of
Candidates which will be in the form of self- approved candidates
nominations using an official nomination form 1. All applicants recommended for inclusion in its
produced by the LGC. The form may include a panel of candidates must be submitted to a
number of questions (as well as a section for meeting of the management committee of the
personal details) as approved by the LGC LGC concerned.
executive, but must include an undertaking to
2. There are three ways that applicants will be
abide by the party’s rules and procedures relating
considered for membership of the approved panel
to local government candidature and by the
of candidates. The particular method of approval
standing orders for the Labour group if elected.
depends upon the individual circumstances of the
2. The LGC must ensure that all eligible members are applicant as set out below:
informed of their right to self nominate to the A. Sitting councillor
panel of approved candidates together with
details of the timetable described in section 1 i. To be reviewed by a written form from
above. the chief whip regarding discipline and
attendance, and by a written report from
D. Qualification of nominees the branch secretary covering the ward
1. Each nominee must be an individual member of they represent. An update form should
the Labour Party, in accordance with the be completed should circumstances have
conditions of membership which include, where changed since a previous application
applicable, membership of an appropriate trade form was completed. The LGC Officers, or
union. a panel duly authorised by the LGC, may
request an interview if the reports raise
2. Each nominee must have paid the party concerns about discipline, attendance,
membership contribution at the appropriate rate campaigning record or competence.
and have at least 12 months’ continuous national Should they feel the circumstance
individual membership of the party in the dictate, the Regional Director/General
electoral area concerned at the date of Secretary in Scotland and Wales may
nomination. This 12 month continuous instruct the LGC that an interview is
membership and residency qualification may be undertaken and must give such reasons
waived in exceptional circumstances to be in writing. Should an interview not be
decided by the Management Committee of the requested, the sitting councillor will be
LGC and endorsed by the Regional recommended for inclusion on the panel
Director/General Secretary in Scotland and Wales without interview. Should an interview
on behalf of the NEC. be required, this will be undertaken by an
3. All nominees must undertake, if elected, to accept assessment team.
and conform to the standing orders of the B. Recent candidate who had not been elected
appropriate Labour group as approved by the NEC.
i. To be reviewed by a written report
4. Nominees must be legally qualified, and not confirming there has been no change in
disqualified, to stand for the local authority at the circumstances and updating the
election concerned. It is required of LGCs that applicant’s campaign and party record. It
they take steps to check on disqualifications will require an endorsement of the
under the relevant legislation as well as any party application by the branch in which they
requirements when compiling their panel of reside and the CLP campaign coordinator
prospective candidates. or similar officer. The LGC Officers, or a
5. Sitting councillors must be nominated and panel duly authorised by the LGC, may
considered for endorsement and selection in request an interview if the report raises
accordance with the provisions set out in section concerns about their campaigning record
5.a below, unless varied by section 5.d.i. or competence. Should they feel the
6. If a sitting councillor, the nominee must also have circumstance dictate, the Regional
paid their annual contribution to the Association Director/General Secretary in Scotland
of Labour Councillors, and be fully paid up to date and Wales may instruct the LGC that an
with their party membership subscriptions at the interview is undertaken and must give
standard rate and pay by direct debit. such reasons in writing. Should an
interview not be requested, the applicant
7. Sitting councillors who have had the Labour group
will be recommended for inclusion on the
whip withdrawn from them indefinitely are not
panel without interview. Should an
eligible for membership of any panel.
interview be required, this will be
8. This party shall not accept as qualified for undertaken by an assessment team.
inclusion in its panel of approved candidates any
C. New applicant
Chapter 20
Appendix IV
i. By completion of the nomination form parties in accordance with the rules for local
and a full interview by an assessment government selections. The reasons for the
team. decision shall remain confidential to the panel
3. An assessment team, which will be drawn up by concerned.
the LGC with the agreement of the Regional F. Authority to vary assessment procedures
Director/General Secretary in Scotland and Wales
in line with NEC recommendations, will carry out 1. The Regional Director/General Secretary in
interviews for applicants where required. At the Scotland and Wales may, with the agreement of
discretion of the Regional Director/General the LGC and the endorsement of the NEC, vary
Secretary in Scotland and Wales, the assessment the assessment procedures in the following ways:
panel may be required to include assessors from A. waive section 5.a and/or section 5.b above to
outside of the local authority area. allow for all sitting councillors and/or recent
4. The assessment team will supply a decision sheet candidates to be interviewed before
to each nominee following their assessment endorsement;
interview. The assessment team will prepare a B. waive the requirement in section 5.a above
report for the management committee on which for the branch secretaries to submit a written
candidates they are recommending the report to the LGC if this is not appropriate due
management committee to endorse. The to local circumstances. Such a waiver shall
management committee may refuse endorsement apply for all applicants.
as it thinks fit to any candidate recommended for
acceptance by the assessment team, on a secret G. Withdrawal of endorsement from a member
ballot of eligible delegates at a duly notified of the approved panel
meeting. The suitability of candidates for 1. The management committee of the LGC may
endorsement is a matter of judgement by withdraw its endorsement of any nominee if, in
members of the management committee. its opinion, there are changed circumstances
Candidates not endorsed by the assessment team relating to that nominee. Again, the individual
will be given reasons for such decision. concerned (or the organisation responsible for
5. The management committee shall not endorse her/his nomination) may appeal within 14 days of
any candidate the assessment team have receiving written notice against such withdrawal
interviewed and not recommended for of endorsement to the appeals panel of the
endorsement. However, the individual concerned regional board who where practicable shall hear
(or the organisation responsible for his/her the appeal within 14 days on the same basis as in
nomination) may appeal within 14 days of section 5.c.iv above.
receiving written notice against the refusal of the
H. Rights and responsibilities of members of the
assessment team or management committee
endorsement to the appeals panel of the
approved panel of candidates
appropriate regional board, who where practicable 1. Potential candidates who are on the approved
shall hear the appeal within 14 days. panel of candidates are entitled to a list of ward
6. Such appeals shall be to establish the suitability secretaries from the Secretary of the Local
Government Committee. Once shortlisted by a
or otherwise of the nominee for inclusion in the
ward, potential candidates will be entitled to a list
panel of candidates and on this basis the panel
established to hear the appeal shall consider of eligible members for that ward from the CLP
submissions from the appellant and Secretary. In order to receive this list, potential
representatives of the LGC concerned. The panel candidates will have to pay the relevant CLP an
shall receive any submissions from both sides in administration charge as set out in the code of
the presence of the other and, within reason, conduct.
witnesses may be called to support the 2. The NEC maintains a code of conduct that applies
submissions. A reasonable opportunity shall be to all candidates at all stages of this process
given for witnesses and submissions to be including candidates applying to the panel of
questioned by either side. The panel may conduct approved candidates.
the appeal hearing as a re-interview should they
consider this is required by the circumstances.
I. Shortlisting and selection
Should any appeal be conducted by the panel as a 1. Insufficient nominations
re-interview then, in the absence of any express A. In the event of an insufficient number of valid
decision to the contrary by the panel, the result of nominations, the LGC executive shall have
such a re-interview shall constitute the final power to take whatever action may be
determination of the appeal. When an appeal necessary to meet the situation and ensure
hearing against withdrawal of endorsement is that there are Labour candidates available to
heard, the hearing may be conducted where the contest any election to the appropriate
panel consider it appropriate solely in relation to authority.
the changed circumstances leading to the LGC B. In cases of dispute the matter shall be
withdrawal of endorsement. The panel shall also submitted to the LGC Management Committee
rule on any procedural issues. The decision of the whose decision shall be final.
appeals panel shall be final and binding on all
Chapter 20
Appendix IV
2. Shortlisting and selection meetings – general concerned may send one member of their
A. Shortlisting and selection meetings shall be Executive Committee as an observer.
convened by the Executive Committee of the I. The LGC Management Committee shall decide
CLP concerned after consultation with and in the number of members who shall comprise a
accordance with the timetable (referred to in necessary quorum for these meetings, which
1f. above) laid down by the executive of the must be reviewed prior to each round of
LGC. This is to ensure that meetings are elections, subject to the agreement of the
convened on a priority basis so that Regional Director/General Secretary in
candidates are selected first for Labour-held Scotland and Wales.
and winnable seats. J. A list of eligible members for such meetings
B. Notice of such meetings must be sent to all shall be provided by the CLP secretaries
members entitled to attend. The notice shall involved from information supplied by the
state the business to be conducted and give national membership system. Where
appropriate details of the procedure to be appropriate a check against such list shall be
adopted. made at the door and membership cards
C. Notice of such meeting shall include notice of and/or other credentials shall be examined. At
any positive action procedures as agreed the commencement of the meeting the
under section 2 above, i.e whether at least opportunity shall be given for the eligibility of
one woman candidate is to be selected or the any member present to be challenged. The
candidate will be selected from an all woman LGC representatives present shall rule on the
shortlist eligibility of any member over which the
meeting is not satisfied. The notice of the
D. Notice of such meetings shall be sent out at
meetings should indicate by when and where
least seven days in advance, except in an
subscriptions should be brought up to date to
emergency where the LGC executive has
ensure eligibility.
approved a contracted timetable for a
particular selection. 3. Shortlisting procedure
E. Where only one branch is involved, notices A. The list of nominees endorsed by the LGC
shall be sent out by the branch secretary on Management Committee (‘the panel’) shall be
the instructions of the CLP secretary. Where sent to CLPs for forwarding to the meetings
more than one branch is involved, the CLP of individual members covering the electoral
secretary shall be responsible for sending out areas where selections have been approved.
the notice. Where more than one constituency B. The shortlisting procedure shall incorporate
is involved, the LGC secretary shall be directly any positive action procedures as agreed
responsible for convening such meetings on under section 2 above.
the instructions of the LGC executive. C. Those in attendance at the special shortlisting
F. Such meetings shall comprise only those fully meeting convened as above shall decide
paid-up individual members of the party who which of the nominees shall be invited to the
are registered as electors or who reside in the subsequent selection meeting.
electoral area concerned. Where this is D. Once a member has been nominated or
impractical (for instance on the grounds of expresses an interest in being nominated s/he
geography or travelling involved) the Regional must withdraw from the meeting and take no
Director/General Secretary in Scotland and further part in it.
Wales shall act on behalf of the NEC to
E. Where a vote is to be taken at a shortlisting
approve arrangements for a special meeting
meeting the following procedure must be
of delegates appointed by branches within
adopted:
that electoral area.
i. Members present shall be invited to
G. Only those members who have been a
make nominations from those names on
member within the relevant local government
the approved panel of candidates.
area concerned for at least 6 months are
Nominations should be moved and
eligible to attend any meeting in this
seconded.
procedure. A freeze date for calculating this 6-
month eligibility may be set by the LGC with ii. Once all desired nominations have been
the approval of the Regional Director/General made, those that have been moved and
Secretary in Scotland and Wales. If no such seconded shall be confirmed to the
freeze date is set the 6 months shall be meeting and nominations closed.
counted from the date of the first meeting iii. When nominations have closed the
convened to discuss a shortlist for a particular meeting shall have to make a decision on
electoral area. how many nominees to invite to the
H. A meeting in this procedure may be attended selection meeting. It is not acceptable to
by not more than three representatives of the shortlist only the number of candidates
LGC executive who shall act in an advisory who are ultimately to be selected, unless
capacity without voting power. Any CLP either:
Chapter 20
Appendix IV
a. the shortlist comprises only sitting shall be held if one is requested by any
councillors for the electoral area member.
concerned who are seeking re- v. If the ‘proceed to ballot’ motion is not
election to the relevant authority, or carried then the meeting may suggest
b. only that number have been new dates for shortlisting and selection
nominated at the commencement of to be agreed by the CLP Executive
the procedure. Committee, or they may proceed to draw
iv. In all other cases the meeting must agree up a new shortlist. Any new selection
to invite at least one more nominee than meetings shall be convened in
the number of candidates to be accordance with the procedure above.
ultimately selected and normally a vi. If it is agreed to ballot, then the method
greater choice should be ensured for the of balloting will depend on whether or
subsequent selection meeting. not the ward is subject to postive action
v. Once the number to be shortlisted has procedures as set out in section 2a
been agreed, if required, the meeting above. Where at least one woman
should proceed to a vote using an candidate must be selected from a multi-
eliminating ballot until only the number seat selection then a two-part ballot
required to be shortlisted remain. shall be held in accordance with section
11.h below. In all other cases the ballot
vi. Following the result of the ballot the
will proceed as set out in section 11.g
meeting should agree the period of time
below.
to be offered to each nominee to address
the selection meeting and answer vii. Where there is no positive action
questions and agree any other requirement, or you are selecting
arrangements necessary. These agreed candidate(s) from an all women shortlist
arrangements shall be communicated to in line with positive action procedures,
the shortlisted nominees. the ballot shall be held as follows:
F. If the required quorum is not present at a a. There shall be a secret paper
shortlisting meeting, then the meeting should eliminating ballot. Members may vote
proceed to draw up a shortlist which shall for as many as, or less than, the
then be put to the subsequent selection number of candidates required to be
meeting for approval or rejection before the selected.
business of that selection meeting may viii. Where there is a requirement to select at
commence. least one woman candidate from a multi-
G. Any member arriving at the shortlisting seat selection, the vote to decide which
meeting after consideration of the shortlist nominees shall be selected as candidates
has commenced shall be ineligible to take part shall be held as follows:
or to vote and this should be made clear in the a. The ballot will be held in two parts.
notice convening the meeting. The first ballot will select a woman
4. Selection procedure candidate (or two women candidates,
if two seats are set aside for women)
A. The following procedure should be adopted at
from amongst those women
the special selection meeting:
nominees on the shortlist. If there is
i. Lots should be drawn for the order of only one woman nominee (or two
appearance before the meeting of the where two seats are set aside for
shortlisted nominees. (This may be done women) then that woman will be
in advance.) deemed selected. The second ballot
ii. Each shortlisted nominee in attendance will select the remaining candidate(s)
should be invited to address the meeting from all shortlisted nominees with
and answer questions for the specified the exception of the woman
period of time which shall be the same candidate(s) selected in the part one
for all nominees. ballot.
iii. In the event of a nominee not being in b. Voting in both ballots shall be a
attendance and having indicated a secret paper eliminating ballot. In the
continued interest in the selection, first ballot, members may cast one
her/his name shall remain in the ballot. vote to select one woman candidate
iv. Once all nominees in attendance have (or up to two votes where two seats
addressed the meeting and answered have been set aside for women). In
questions the meeting shall consider a the second ballot members may vote
procedural motion ‘to proceed to ballot’. If for as many as, or less than, the
members are dissatisfied with the number of candidates required to be
shortlist as presented they shall vote selected.
against the motion and a secret ballot ix. A successful candidate must have an
overall majority of votes cast. Spoilt and
Chapter 20
Appendix IV
blank papers shall be deducted from the xvii. Any member arriving at the selection
total number of ballot papers returned meeting after the first nominee has
before deciding whether a nominee has a started to address it shall be ineligible to
clear majority. take part or to vote and this should be
x. Should no nominee have an overall made clear in the notice convening the
majority, the nominee at the bottom of meeting.
the poll shall be eliminated from the next xviii. In the case of any dispute arising in
round of voting together with any others connection with a selection it shall be
whose votes added to those of nominees referred to the LGC Management
lower in the poll do not equal the number Committee whose decision shall be final.
of votes cast for the nominee 5. Exceptional selections
immediately above.
A. In the event of a local government by-election
xi. Where there is more than one candidate occurring within a constituency, the Executive
to be selected the eliminating ballot Committee of the CLP concerned shall consult
must continue removing the name(s) with the executive of the appropriate Local
with the lowest votes until only the Government Committee and the officers of
number required to be selected remain. any branches concerned to ensure that the
xii. Where there is a tie at the bottom of any vacancy is contested by the party. Wherever
ballot and the two (or more) votes added possible a selection should be made in
together are equal to or more than the accordance with the procedures detailed
next vote above, a separate ballot shall above, but where necessary the CLP
be held to break the tie and decide which Executive Committee, in consultation with the
nominee shall be eliminated from the executive of the LGC, shall take whatever
following round. action is required to meet the situation and
xiii. If there is a tie on the final round of any endorsed by the Regional Director/General
ballot, the chair is not allowed a casting Secretary in Scotland and Wales on behalf of
vote so a further ballot must be held to the NEC.
determine the result. Before taking this B. Where any situation requires that a candidate
further ballot the nominees tying may be be imposed for a local government election,
recalled separately for a further period of the Management Committee of the
questions. If there is still a tie then a appropriate Local Government Committee may
fresh selection meeting shall be only do so with the approval of the
convened appropriate Regional Director/General
xiv. If after a further meeting no decision is Secretary in Scotland and Wales of the party
reached there shall be a joint meeting on behalf of the NEC. In exceptional
convened on the same basis as in 11.p circumstances the NEC shall require a panel of
below. the Regional Board to make a decision which
shall be final and binding on all parties.
xv. No shortlisted nominee shall take part or
vote as a member of the branch in the
selection meeting unless they have
formally withdrawn from the selection.
xvi. If the required quorum is not present at a
selection meeting then the selection of
the candidate(s) shall be deferred to a
subsequent joint meeting of those
individual members eligible to attend the
first meeting plus members of the
Executive Committee of the CLP
concerned who are registered as electors
within the area of operation of the LGC
and who have the 6-month membership
qualification. Executive members who
have an interest in the outcome of the
selection shall not participate in this joint
meeting. Such a meeting shall proceed
however many members are present.
However, the Executive Committee
members present at the deferred
meeting shall have the right to vote in
any ballot only if again insufficient
members from the electoral area
concerned attend to form a quorum.
Chapter 20
Appendix IV
sitting councillors and the update form submitted by
Chapter 21 sitting councillors. This can be the LGC Officers or a duly

authorised panel put in place for this purpose, hereafter
referred to as “the Panel”.
Appendix V Circumstances under which a sitting councillor should be

called in for an interview The Panel are required to
review the report from the chief whip and branch
secretary, and an update report by sitting councillors. It
would be appropriate to interview sitting councillors for
NEC Advice Note – any of the following reasons:
a. Poor disciplinary report from chief whip, including
Interviewing sitting matters before the Standards Board
b. Poor attendance report from chief whip
councillors or recent c. Poor report from branch secretary with regard to
their role in party activities or the carrying out of their
candidates role as a councillor, ie attendance at council meetings
and other meetings of which they are a member, the
holding of advice surgeries, attendance at consultative
meetings in the ward, and regular communications with
local residents.
Grounds for interviewing a sitting councillor who has re- d. Concerns on any issue/s in a councillors update
applied for inclusion on the panel of local government report
candidates or recent candidate who had not been elected e. A combination of a) to d) above
Introduction Should the Panel only receive a poor report from the
The Committee is asked to note the NEC advice note branch secretary, they would need to take into
which will supplement the recently agreed changes to consideration any known tensions between the branch
local government selection procedural guidelines. secretary and the councillor, and it would be helpful to
know whether or not the concerns stated were generally
ADVICE NOTE held by branch members.
There have been changes to the “NEC procedural Ultimately, the Panel will have to make a considered
guidelines for the selection of local government decision as to whether a councillor should be called for
candidates”, which supplement the rules in Chapter 5 interview, and a consistent approach needs to be taken.
above for local government selections. Section 5 The Panel should err on the side of interviewing
“Endorsement of applicants to the panel of approved provided poor report/s are received, and it needs to be
candidates” is now broken down into three categories. recognised that the Panel are basing their decision to
This paper offers advice to LGCs with regard to calling interview on reports received by them and not of their
for interview sitting councillors and recent candidates own initiative. Advice on whether or not to interview a
who had not been elected, as part of the determination sitting councillor can be obtained from the Regional
as to whether or not they should be included on the new Director (General Secretary in Scotland and Wales), and
panel of candidates. the Regional Director does have the authority to instruct
Sitting councillors the LGC to carry out an interview having given such
reasons.
The sub-section regarding sitting councillors is as
follows: It is not unreasonable that a sitting Labour councillor,
who is perceived to be carrying out their duties at a poor
To be reviewed by a written form from the chief whip
level, should be called for an interview. Such a decision
regarding discipline and attendance, and by a written
as taken by the Panel, should then be forwarded to the
report from the branch secretary covering the ward they
LGC Assessment Team to carry out the interview. The
represent. An update form must be completed by all
members who made up the Panel must not form part of
sitting councillors wishing to be placed on the new panel
the Assessment Team interviewing sitting councillors.
of candidates. The LGC Officers, or a panel duly
authorised by the LGC, may request an interview if the The sub-section regarding recent candidate who had not
reports raise concerns about discipline, attendance, been elected is as follows:
campaigning record or competence. Should they feel the To be reviewed by a written report confirming there has
circumstance dictate, the Regional Director can instruct been no change in circumstances and updating the
the LGC that an interview is undertaken and must give applicant’s campaign and party record. It will require an
such reasons in writing. Should an interview not be endorsement of the application by the branch in which
requested, the sitting councillor will be recommended for they reside and the CLP campaign coordinator or similar
inclusion on the panel without interview. Should an officer. The LGC Officers, or a panel duly authorised by
interview be required, this will be undertaken by an the LGC, may request an interview if the report raises
assessment team. concerns about their campaigning record or competence.
As required by the NEC procedural guidelines an LGC will Should they feel the circumstance dictate, the Regional
need to need to set up a panel to review the reports on Director can instruct the LGC that an interview is
Chapter 21
Appendix V Recent candidate who had not
Sitting
beencouncillor
elected
NEC Advice Note – Interviewing sitting councillors or recent candidates Page 93 of 100
undertaken and must give such reasons in writing.

Should an interview not be requested, the applicant will
be recommended for inclusion on the panel without
interview. Should an interview be required, this will be
undertaken by an assessment team. As required by the
NEC procedural guidelines an LGC will need to set up a
panel to review the reports on a recent candidate who
had not been elected. This can be the LGC Officers or a
duly authorized panel put in place for this purpose,
hereafter referred to as “the Panel”.
Circumstances under which a recent candidate who had
not been elected should be called for an interview
The Panel are required to review the reports from the
branch in which they reside and the CLP campaign
coordinator or similar officer. It would be appropriate to
interview sitting councillors for any of the following
reasons:
a. Poor report from the branch in which they reside,
notifying changed circumstances
b. Poor report from CLP campaign officer or similar
officer, notifying changed circumstances
c. A combination of a) & b) above
The Panel would need to take into consideration any
known tensions between the parties should a poor
report be received. Ultimately, the Panel will have to
make a considered decision as to whether a recent
candidate who had not been elected should be called for
interview, and a consistent approach needs to be taken.
The Panel should err on the side of interviewing
provided poor report/s are received, and it needs to be
recognised that the Panel are basing their decision to
interview on reports received by them and not of their
own initiative.
Advice on whether or not to interview a recent candidate
who had not been elected can be obtained from the
Regional Director (General Secretary in Scotland and
Wales), and the Regional Director does have the
authority to instruct the LGC to carry out an interview
having given such reasons. It is not unreasonable that a
member who is perceived to have a poor campaigning
record should be called for an interview. Such a decision
as taken by the Panel, should then be forwarded to the
LGC Assessment Team to carry out the interview. The
members who made up the Panel must not form part of
the Assessment Team interviewing recent candidates
who had not been elected.
Chapter 21
Appendix V
NEC Advice Note – Interviewing sitting councillors or recent candidates Page 94 of 100
guidelines. In the Stage 2 – Run-up to hearing
Chapter 22 considers the case submitted to it should

proceed to a full hearing a date for a hearing
shall be fixed at this stage. The panel may
Appendix VI decide to vary or alter said date.

2. Stage 2 – Run-up to hearing
A. Letters shall normally be sent to each
individual (respondent) charged, and panel
Procedural guidelines in members, giving about six weeks notice of the

hearing. These should enclose the charge or
charges together with particulars of each and
disciplinary cases a summary of the facts supporting each
charge, together with a separate bundle of
brought before the NCC the documents to be relied upon, and names
of witnesses to support each charge.
B. The respondent shall be written to at the last
notified address and required to advise the
secretary of the NCC two weeks after date of
posting of the letter enclosing the charge
Further information on these guidelines may be obtained whether she/ he intends to contest the
from the secretary of the National Constitutional charge or not. Should that person fail to
Committee at The Labour Party Compliance Unit. respond, within two weeks, thereafter a letter
Any person appearing before a panel of the National shall be sent advising that failure to respond
Constitutional Committee (NCC) and in particular any shall be deemed an admission entitling the
party member acting as a ‘presenter’ of, or a ‘respondent’ NCC to proceed with the case and to impose
to, a case before the panel should make themselves any appropriate sanction. Where the
familiar with these procedural guidelines. Though these respondent intends to contest the charge a
procedural guidelines do not form part of the party’s written answer to the charge must be sent to
rules, they have the full approval of the NCC and give the secretary of the NCC within four weeks of
detail on the NCC approach to dealing with individual the date of posting of the letter enclosing the
cases. charge. Said written answer must identify
In fairness to all sides, the NCC expects the parties what, if any, parts of the charge are admitted,
involved and its panels to adhere to the guidelines what parts of the charge are contested and
wherever practicable. Inevitably a degree of flexibility is the basis on which they are contested.
required to deal with unforeseen circumstances or C. Witnesses
unusual cases. Such variances, however, should be kept i. The respondent shall apply to the panel
to a minimum. chair in writing regarding any witnesses
The NCC or a panel of the NCC have the authority in what she/ he wishes to give oral evidence at
they deem to be appropriate circumstances, to dispose of least two weeks prior to the proposed
a case without a hearing and to rely solely on the written hearing date. The NCC or any panel
representations. Such circumstances may be where the thereof will consider the requests for
respondent has failed to reply to the NCC or indicated witnesses to give oral evidence having
they will not be attending the scheduled hearing, or considered that fairness requires such
where the particulars of the case lead the panel to deem application to be acceded to whether in
that a hearing would not be in the best interest of either whole or part, having regard to the
side. following:
A. Timetable for dealing with cases ii. the reason given in support of the
application
1. Stage 1 – Receipt of case
iii. the issue or issues or otherwise to which
A. On receipt of a case from the NEC or a CLP, the witness or witnesses are said to
the NCC secretary shall confirm certain details have relevant evidence to give
about the case from the designated
‘presenter’. iv. the materials provided by the respondent
making the application
B. If there is urgency, the Chair of the NCC shall
appoint a panel (three members of the NCC) to v. whether the respondent has availed
deal with the case; otherwise the receipt of herself/ himself of the opportunity to
the case shall be reported to the next full submit to the NCC or any panel thereof,
meeting of the NCC (usually held every two to in support of her/ his application, a
three months) where the membership of the witness statement containing the
panel shall be agreed. A chair of the panel evidence of the witness whom the
shall also be appointed at this stage who shall respondent is now applying to the NCC or
be responsible for ensuring that the any panel thereof to hear orally
procedural matters in advance of any hearing vi. the content of any such witness
are dealt with in accordance with the statement
Chapter 22 Appendix VI
Procedural guidelines in disciplinary cases brought before the NCC Page 95 of 100
vii. any other considerations that appear to respondent, though any such request will
the NCC or panel thereof to be relevant be forwarded to the presenter.
to determining whether fairness to the ii. The presenter’s written case summary
respondent requires that any witness the and documents shall be forwarded to the
subject of such an application be heard NCC in a form that is easily copied. Any
by the NCC or panel thereof orally. bundle of documents in excess of 30
viii. The NCC is concerned with the content of sheets shall be numbered consecutively
the charges presented and panels are not and copied five times for each case and
therefore generally concerned to hear these forwarded to the NCC.
‘character’ witnesses on either side. As a iii. Written submissions and documents from
general rule, a panel of the NCC will not the respondent shall be forwarded to the
take oral evidence from more than six NCC in a form that is easily copied. Any
witnesses from the presenter/ bundle of documents in excess of 30
respondent, unless additional witnesses sheets shall be numbered consecutively
are material to specific elements of the and copied five times and these
charges and their evidence is not able to forwarded to the NCC.
be confirmed by other witnesses.
3. Stage 3 – The full hearing
ix. The NCC has no means of compulsion to
ensure witnesses attend a hearing, and it A. Hearings before panels of the NCC are
intended to be non-adversarial, and the chair
is a matter for the presenter/ respondent
will attempt to maintain an informal
to arrange for their witnesses to attend.
Acceptance of witnesses for the atmosphere. The panel itself may ask
questions of witnesses where it considers it
respondent should be confirmed by the
reasonably necessary to establish or clarify
panel chair one week prior to the hearing,
the facts.
and will be duly notified to both sides.
The presenter may call additional B. Where a case involves more than one
witnesses in the rebuttal of the respondent the panel chair shall establish
respondent’s reply to charges. before the commencement of any hearing
whether the cases are to be heard together or
D. Legal representation
separately. The respondents and presenter
i. An application by the respondent for will be consulted, though the final decision
legal representation at the hearing shall will be with the NCC or panel thereof.
be made in writing no later than two
C. The presenter and respondent, along with any
weeks prior to the hearing. The NCC or
accompanying friend and legal representative,
panel thereof shall determine whether
such an application is appropriate, and shall remain in the room throughout the
hearing except where the panel adjourns to
the respondent shall be notified of the
consider procedural or other matters.
decision not later than one week prior to
the hearing. Where legal representation D. Witnesses shall be brought into the room one
is permitted a pre-hearing meeting of the by one during the course of the presenter’s
panel, along with the legal and respondent’s cases. No one else shall be
representative and presenter, may be permitted to attend the hearing which shall
convened to consider procedural matters proceed as follows:
relating to the conduct of the hearing. i. Chair introduces panel and outlines
ii. The presenter/respondent shall be procedure, panel deals with any
entitled to an accompanying friend at the procedural points or questions. Where
hearing, who must be a member of the the respondent is permitted a legal
party, and may not address the hearing in representative, the respondent’s case
the course of the proceedings. The will be conducted by the legal
identity of the accompanying friend shall representative alone.
be notified to the secretary of the panel ii. Presenter makes statement of the case
not later than one week prior to the and calls witnesses in turn. As each
hearing. witness is introduced s/he maybe asked
E. Final arrangements questions by:
i. The final arrangements shall as far as a. the presenter
reasonably practical be confirmed at b. the respondent/ representative
least four days prior to the hearing. c. members of the panel.
F. Written evidence iii. At the conclusion of the statement of
i. A panel of the NCC does not seek out case, the respondent/ representative
documentation or evidence prior to the may put questions to the presenter,
hearing on its own initiative. It is not the provided the presenter has given
responsibility of the panel to insist that evidence her/himself. The members of
specific documentation be released by the panel may put any questions they
the presenter for the use of the
have to the presenter on the case as any mitigating circumstances which the
presented. respondent wishes to bring to the panel’s
iv. At this stage the respondent or the attention.
representative may submit there is no E. Before addressing the panel the respondent
case for the respondent to answer. The should be informed by the chair that one of
presenter shall be given an opportunity the options to be considered may be that of
to respond to any such submission. The expulsion from the party. At the conclusion of
panel may wish to adjourn to consider the address in mitigation, members of the
the submissions. If it decides there is no panel may ask questions of the respondent on
case to answer the panel shall so rule that issue.
and dismiss the case, otherwise the case F. The panel then adjourn to consider any plea in
will proceed as follows: mitigation and any disciplinary measure it may
v. Respondent or the representative decide to impose. Such decision shall be final.
presents her/ his case and calls G. No member of the panel may vote on the
witnesses in turn. As each witness is charge against the respondent on any
introduced they may be asked questions disciplinary action to be taken unless s/he has
by: been present for the whole of the hearing.
a. the respondent/ representative Where a panel has found a charge under
b. the presenter Chapter 2 A.3 above of the conditions of
membership proved, expulsion is required by
c. members of the panel.
the terms of that rule.
vi. At the conclusion of the respondent’s
H. Where a panel has found a charge of being a
case, the presenter may put questions to
member of a proscribed organisation under
the respondent/ representative, provided
Chapter 2 A.3 above of the conditions of
the respondent/ representative has
membership proved, expulsion is required by
given evidence her/himself. The
the terms of the rule unless the panel is
members of the panel may put any
satisfied that an unqualified undertaking in
questions they have to the respondent/
the form required by the NEC has been given,
representative on the case as presented.
in which case a disciplinary measure short of
vii. The presenter may then make a closing expulsion may be imposed.
statement dealing with the charges and
I. The decision will be confirmed in writing
evidence. No new evidence or documents
following the closing of the hearing.
may be introduced.
4. Other matters
viii. The respondent may then make a closing
statement dealing with the charges and A. Disposal of case other than by hearing:
evidence. No new evidence or documents i. A panel may decide to dismiss a case at
may be introduced. any stage up to 3.D above above on the
ix. The presenter may respond on matters grounds that no case to answer has been
of a procedural nature raised in the established. Where a case is contested
respondent’s closing statement. by the respondent a hearing as above
will usually proceed unless agreement is
x. If the charge is one of membership of an
reached on an alternative method of
organisation proscribed by the rules of
determining the case (eg on the basis of
the party, the respondent shall be asked
written submissions only).
by the panel chair whether s/he is
prepared to give an undertaking as to B. Decisions of other authorities
future involvement in the form required i. The NCC has taken the view that it is
by the NEC. important that the party adopt a
xi. The panel adjourns to consider whether consistent approach towards the findings
in its opinion the charges are proved or of the court’s statutory inquiries, the
not proved. The panel shall identify District Auditor and other such judicial or
which charge(s) or part thereof in its quasijudicial authorities.
opinion is held proved. This is ii. Presenters on behalf of the NEC and
determined, if need be, by a simple CLPs cannot be expected to provide first
majority. If the panel considers that none hand evidence for the findings of such
of the charges are proved then the case bodies. The NCC shall treat such findings
shall be dismissed, and shall not form as grounds for disciplinary action unless
part of any future proceedings before evidence is provided of a successful
the NCC against that individual. challenge through the appropriate
xii. If a panel finds any of the charges or channels. The findings of such
parts thereof proved then the hearing authorities shall normally be conclusive
resumes to inform the respondent and to proof of the commission of such a crime,
provide an opportunity for a statement act or default.
to be made to the panel with regard to C. Party membership of individuals charged
i. An individual charged must have been a

member of the party at the time of the
alleged breach of rule (and of the
constituency concerned where the case
is brought by a CLP). A CLP is entitled to
pursue a case against a former member
who has subsequently transferred
membership to another CLP.
ii. Where an individual ceases to be a party
member, although the NCC is entitled to
deal with any charges brought, it
however has determined that it shall not
hear cases in respect of individuals who
cease to be party members but shall
treat the case as ‘suspended’. In such
cases the General Secretary of the party
shall be informed that an NCC case was
outstanding at the time that membership
lapsed or otherwise ceased. It will
therefore be for the NEC to consider any
outstanding matter in relation to a
suspended NCC case should the
individual concerned re-apply for party
membership. The evidence from a
suspended case may, however, be used
in future for any purpose.
D. Procedural matters at NEC or CLP level
i. The rules under which the NCC operates
make it clear that the NCC and its panels
are concerned only with the charge(s).
The procedures adopted on behalf of the
party or a CLP in advance of a referral to
the NCC are not matters for the NCC
dealing with a particular case. The NCC is
entitled to (and will) act on the basis that
the charges are properly brought before
them and cannot become embroiled in
dealing with complaints about the
administration of any investigation
leading to the charges. Any such
complaint will therefore not be
entertained by the NCC or panel thereof
unless it is material or relevant to the
consideration of the evidence to be used
by the presenter in support of the
charges.
ii. Complaints about the conduct of an
investigation at CLP level should be
addressed to the appropriate Regional
Director, or the party’s General Secretary
in the case of national investigations,
and not to the NCC.
Printed and promoted by Chris Lennie, Acting General Secretary

on behalf of the Labour Party
all of 39 Victoria Street
London SW1 H 0HA

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The Labour Party

Rule Book 2008

SUMMARY OF NEC RULE AMENDMENTS ..................................................................................5

THE NATIONAL RULES OF THE LABOUR PARTY................................................................... 10

Chapter 3 Party Conference ...................................................................................................................................... 21

RULES FOR UNITS OF PARTY ORGANISATION...................................................................... 35

Clause XII. Duties of the General Committee 40

Chapter 11 Rules for Young Labour......................................................................................................................... 48

Chapter 11A Young Labour groups ......................................................................................................................... 49

11B Young Labour National Committee................................................................................................................. 51

Chapter 12 Rules for Labour Party local government committees ................................................................... 52

Clause VII. General 53

CONTACTS AND GLOSSARY ..................................................................................................... 67

Chapter 17 Appendix I NEC statement on the importance of our members .................................................. 71

Summary of NEC rule

EXTENDING AND RENEWING PARTY DEMOCRACY

Chapter 1 - Constitutional rules

Clause Title Rule change Explanation

Chapter 3 – Party conference

Clause Title Rule change Explanation

3.C.2.G Agenda Delete “motions on contemporary or Revises rules to reflect

Chapter 4 – Elections of national officers of the Party and national committees

Clause Title Rule change Explanation

Chapter 7 - Rules for CLPs

Clause Title Rule change Explanation

VI.1.E Method of Add at end: Supports CLPs which wish to

Chapter 3 – Party Conference

Clause Title Rule change Explanation

officio capacity, on the same

Chapter 7 – Rules for CLPs

Clause Title Rule change Explanation

Chapter 7 Functional In addition there may be appointed As above

The national rules of

local Young Labour groups throughout

Chapter 1 England, Scotland and Wales

Clause V. referred to as ‘party conference’ and these rules

Clause IX. 4. The NCC or any panel thereof in hearing and

change in the relationship between CLPs and the

D. Where a member has been convicted of a

Chapter 2 serious criminal offence and has received a

Membership rules from the following options:

Scottish or European Parliament, Greater including a code of conduct on membership

membership fee according to their annual

Standard £36 £8 £16 £12

3. The campaign fund portion of the subscription

vi. accredited organisers employed by the

written consent to nomination is

officers of the party and nominating organisations and Commons

i. The party will take action in all selections

Chapter 5 to encourage a greater level of

Selections for elected underrepresented in our democratic

8. NEC Endorsement conference be eligible for nomination or selection

10. The normal procedure may be dispensed with by

the subject of such warning being called into

Chapter 6 question following any subsequent exercise

Disciplinary rules issue of such warning and the conduct that is

decide whether to authorize the otherwise and having regard to their

Rules for units of party

to the National Policy Forum for inclusion in

Chapter 7 the party programme.