Glossary
This section explains key parliamentary and government terms.
Recall of MPs Act 2015
The Act setting out when a recall petition can be opened for an MP.
Recall Petition
A process that can lead to an MP losing their seat and a by-election being held.
Rectification
A process used to resolve less serious breaches of the Commons standards rules.
Register of All-Party Parliamentary Groups
The authoritative list of All-Party Parliamentary Groups.
Register of Members’ Financial Interests
The public register showing MPs’ relevant financial interests and benefits.
Registered Political Party
A political party registered to use a party name or description on ballot papers.
Registered Voter
A person whose name appears on the electoral register and who can vote if they meet the relevant rules.
Registrable Interest
An interest that an MP is required to place in the Register of Members’ Financial Interests.
Relevant Interest
An interest that might reasonably be thought to influence an MP’s actions or words.
Returning Officer
Abbreviation: RO
The official responsible for running an election in a local area.
Royal Prerogative
Executive powers that historically belong to the Crown and are now usually exercised by ministers.