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► Referenda

Referenda

A referendum is a method by which the Union gathers a decisive answer from the student body on a single yes/no question.

A referendum is a policy-making process which can be called at any time and by any student. As well as being able to set policy, referenda also have the power to amend Brighton SUs constitution and bye laws (the legal documents which sets out the fundamental principles, rules and regulations of Brighton SU) as well as overturn a previous decision made at a General Meeting or at Union Council. It can also be used to pass a Motion of No Confidence in an Officer or Trustee.

In order to call a referendum, a student must collect at least 500 signatures from other students who support the proposal. This must be done on a secure petition (e-petition or a hard copy). This petition will then be presented to the Union President (usually) who will organise the referendum. A referendum can also be called by the Board of Trustees or Union Council.

The referendum itself will be a 24-hour online ‘yes/no’ vote open to all Ordinary Members of the Union.

To pass policy, overrule a decision made at Union Council or General Meeting or affiliate/disaffiliate the Union to/from any external organisation: Need 1000 members to vote and a simple majority win.

To amend/revoke SU constitution/bye laws or pass a motion of no confidence: Need 1500 members to vote and a 75% majority win.

Referenda is the highest student-led policy-making process there is, and has the authority to overturn most policy/constitutional decisions. However, the Board of Trustees do have the power to override decisions/policies made in certain circumstances, for instance if there would be large financial implications for the Union or it breaches the Union’s charity/legal requirements.

For further information contact:
SU President - Terry Preston
bsup@brighton.ac.uk
T: 01273 643816

CC 16/08/11