Online Voting
Conducting a vote online has the same statistical value as holding a “straw poll” (though it should never be described simply as a “poll”). It is not representative and must be couched – explicitly - in terms of having no scientific value or of being “a bit of fun” or similar phrase. It is not “indicative”, neither is it sufficient to say that “it may not represent public opinion”. It categorically does not represent public opinion – at best, it may coincide with it.
Results of an online vote may not be reported beyond the programme area or site which initiates it.
Online votes are particularly vulnerable to campaigns, lobby groups and individuals who seek to organise mass or multi voting. For that reason, some highly controversial issues are not, normally, suitable for online voting as the risk of being hijacked is too great.
Anyone proposing to carry out any online vote MUST submit the relevant referral form and should also read the logistical guidance for online voting.
* In this guidance, “public policy” should be defined as any issue which falls within the remit of government, local government or other public bodies, such as health, education, crime, constitutional affairs, foreign affairs, economic policy etc. If in doubt – refer to the Chief Adviser, Politics.