In 1931 all European males over the age of 21 were enfranchised (eliminating property and wage qualifications for that section of the population).

The South Africa Act 1909 had provided for a delimitation commission to define the boundaries for each electoral division.

As the two largest parties were in coalition together, the opposition to the government was weaker and more fragmented than in any other election in South African history.

An alternative breakdown of members, distinguishing between supporters and opponents of the coalition, was (pro Coalition) NP 75, SAP 61, Creswell Labour 2, Roos 2; (opposition) National Council Labour 2, Natal Home Rule 2, Independents 6.

[5] Another interpretation, is NP 75, SAP 61, Labour 4, Roos Party 2, Home Rule group 2 and Independents 6.