The result of a referendum is binding and will override any ordinary motion which has been passed on the same issue in the same academic year.
Calling a Referendum
A referendum can be called in the following circumstances:
- If an Emergency Committee Meeting (ECM) called by the President and a majority of the General Committee believe that a Referendum should be held. At least 50% of the total number of Committee members must be in attendance. If there is a tie the President shall has the casting vote.
- If a petition is signed by at least 50 full members of the JCR and is presented to the President, Secretary or Returning Officer.
The question will be drafted by the President and the Returning Officer in spirit of either the ECM or the petition.
Once the question has been confirmed by at least 50% of the committee the President will call an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) to debate the question to be put in the Referendum after the Notice of Poll has been distributed.
The Returning Officer will issue a Notice of Poll within 36 hours of either the close of the ECM or receipt of the petition.
Voting
Any full member of the JCR may cast a vote in the referendum. The polls will be open for at least 10 hours. The result will be determined by a simple majority using the plurality voting system (first-past-the-post).
For more information take a look at the Constitution.