The polling date of autumn 2014 fits SNP plans: they want time to convince the Scottish people.

BBC: Independence referendum: triumphalism deferred

Some of its candidates were apparently registered shortly before the polling date.

ECONOMIST: Russia's regional elections

Election officials will meet in coming days to fix a polling date - many expect the vote to be held in late April.

BBC: Malaysian PM Najib Razak paves way for general election

The government argues that introducing fixed terms would prevent the ruling party from being able to choose a polling date for its own political advantage.

BBC: Fixed-term Parliaments Bill part two

The government argues that introducing fixed terms will prevent the ruling party from being able to choose a polling date for its own political advantage.

BBC: Fixed-term Parliaments Bill part one

But a similar fear that the chosen polling date, at the wettest time of year and near Christmas, would dampen voter interest, did not come to pass.

ECONOMIST: A victory for rigging and a split opposition