Canvassing and conduct during elections

Conference has previously agreed that the rules relating to canvassing in elections
should be reviewed. Previous consideration of the issue of canvassing has identified a
number of problems in interpreting and implementing the rule. After assessing the
position, the Executive Council recommends that the rule on canvassing (Rule 19A)
should be immediately suspended and that the Executive Council should present a
rule change to remove it at the next ordinary Conference of the union.

The suspension and potential future removal of the rule on canvassing does not,
however, remove all obligations on behalf of members in relation to conduct during
elections. The Executive Council recommends the following interim code of conduct
to Conference to be assessed prior to Conference 2016. Breaches of this policy by
any individual member may result in action being taken under the union’s rules.

Canvassing

● Members may canvas verbally or in writing in all elections of the FBU.
● Committees of the union may make recommendations in relation to elections
and these may be communicated to members.
● No individual member or official or committee of the union should make use
of FBU funds or resources in order to canvas in any election.
● However, this should not prevent communication of decisions of committees
using normal methods to members.
● Where canvassing activity contradicts the rules or policies of the union or
highlights a potential breach of rule or policy, the Executive Council will take
such steps as are necessary to address the issue.

Election addresses

● Elections are an essential part of the democracy of the union. It is important
to allow elections to run without interference.
● Candidates in elections are reminded that all members have an obligation to
comply with the policies and rules of the union.
● Where an election address contradicts the rules or policies of the union or
highlights a potential breach of rule or policy, the executive council will take
such steps as are necessary to address the issue.

Members engaged in election activity or canvassing are reminded of their obligations
under the union’s rules to treat other members with dignity and respect and are
required to act accordingly.

In extreme circumstances the Executive Council may take action under its powers
under rule to intervene and, if necessary, suspend election processes.
Nothing in this code prohibits candidates in elections from campaigning for changes
to union rules or policies.

Recommendation

In view of the above, the Executive Council recommends that Rule 19A should be
suspended immediately and that the Executive Council should consider the impact of
this interim code of conduct in bringing the appropriate rule changes to Conference
2016.