h. Publicity during the pre-election period

Local authorities are required by legislation to consider the Code of Recommended Practice on Local Authority Publicity (aka The Publicity Code) in coming to any decision on publicity, defined as any communication, in whatever form, addressed to the public or a section of the public.  The Code applies to local councils, and account of this should be taken of its contents.  See also NALC Legal Briefing LO1-23 using this link.

The 'pre-election period' is a period of heightened sensitivity, and between the notice of an election and the election itself (or referendum), councils should take care not to  publish any material or undertake activity which may influence voters. Use of council facilities and resources, developing new policies and holding of events - including some meetings - featuring elected members should all be carefully considered during a period of heightened sensitivity.

The LGA have produced A short guide to publicity during the pre-election period which provides useful advice on what is and isn't allowed, and other matters that require careful consideration. If in doubt about a particular activity, guidance should be sought from the returning officer or monitoring officer.