House of Commons · General Debate
10 September 2020 · 4 other contributors
Opened by Peter Bone Con Wellingborough
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Peter Bone raised concerns about electoral commission committee in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.
Key points
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
Questioned whether the Electoral Commission's independence is compromised, citing concerns raised by QC Timothy Straker about 'gross errors' made by the commission and suggested that it should be stripped of its existing enforcement powers.
Asked what recent representations the committee has received on maintaining the independence of the Electoral Commission. Emphasised the importance of an independent electoral commission in democratic systems, and highlighted how the Electoral Commission had fined Vote Leave £61,000 for illegal activities.
Stressed that the Electoral Commission's independence is established by statute. Defended the commission’s record of having adjudicated around 500 cases, with only one challenged and upheld in court. Noted the committee’s role in upholding its independence. Challenged those seeking to replace or abolish the commission to propose alternatives.
Pressed Chris Matheson for his views on QC Timothy Straker's criticisms of the Electoral Commission, arguing that it should be time to scrap the commission due to its alleged 'gross errors' and failure to uphold standards.
Responded by highlighting his training on electoral monitoring with the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association. Cited Vote Leave's illegal activities as an example of why an independent Electoral Commission is crucial in a democratic system.