All might be fair in love and war, but the same is not true in referendums. Since 2000, when the Westminster parliament passed the Political Parties, Elections and Referendum Act, Britain has had some of the tightest and most regulated procedures in the world.
The original legislation was designed for a referendum on membership of the euro and with the aim of limiting spending by rich opponents of the EU.
One of the few victories for the Conservative-Liberal Democrat coalition in the negotiations was that the referendum would be held using the rules established in the 2000 act. This is somewhat ironic, as the Conservatives were vociferous in their opposition to the act when it was debated in Parliament.
The most important task for the Electoral Commission is to monitor campaign spending. Each side will be allowed to spend about £5 million. At a time when the political parties are struggling for money, the limits may well be a boost for the No side. Anecdotal evidence suggests that it would be easier for the Yes side to raise money and to campaign effectively.
As something comparatively unique, 16- to 17-year-olds will be allowed to vote. Only two other countries have previously allowed voters under the age of 18, namely Iran and Brazil. It has been assumed that the inclusion of this demographic would favour the Yes vote. But there is little solid evidence for this. Polling indicates the youngest voters reflect the national average.
Under the deal, the commission will have to approve the question put to voters in 2014. Some fear a loaded question could sway voters, but there is little evidence from other countries that the wording matters.
Despite the commission acting as umpire, there is plenty of scope for robust campaigning and outright dirty-tricks. Don’t expect a gentlemanly fight. The gloves are already off.
• Matt Qvortrup is author of A Comparative Study of Referendums