The Explanatory Memorandum to the Code of good practice on referendums underlines the need for respect of the equality principle:

"Respect for equality of opportunity is crucial for both referendums and elections. While in elections, equality must be ensured between parties and between candidates, simply replicating this principle in the case of referendums may lead to an unsatisfactory situation. In countries with popular initiatives or optional referendums, these are often not instigated by a political party, and may even propose an option that is rejected by the largest parties – such as reducing the number of members of Parliament or public funding of parties. Accordingly, the guidelines emphasise equality between the supporters and opponents"