House of Commons · General Debate
22 March 2021 · 9 other contributors
Opened by Jacob Rees-Mogg Con Not specified
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Jacob Rees-Mogg raised concerns about electoral commission 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
Moves a motion to appoint John Pullinger CB as the new chair of the Electoral Commission for a four-year term starting from May 2021. Outlines the process by which Mr Pullinger was selected, including an open competition and interviews conducted by a panel appointed by Speaker.
Thanking Sir John Holmes for his service as the previous chair of the Electoral Commission, Valerie Vaz acknowledges the work of the selection panel. She supports John Pullinger's appointment based on his extensive background in statistics, international development, and commitment to transparency and evidence-based decision making.
As a member of the selection panel, William Wragg confidently recommends John Pullinger for the role, highlighting his understanding of impartiality and ability to lead the organisation independently and robustly.
Welcoming Mr Pullinger's appointment, Owen Thompson acknowledges the rigorous selection process. He expresses hope that during Pullinger's tenure, there will be a focus on monitoring digital campaigning and online activities of political parties.
Mr Peter Bone supports Mr John Pullinger as a fit and proper person to chair the Electoral Commission but raises concerns about the current state of the organisation, which he believes is politically corrupt, unfit for purpose, and damaging democracy. He highlights his extensive experience with the Electoral Commission and expresses doubt that public trust can be rebuilt while it remains in its current form.
Ms Eleanor Laing emphasises the narrow scope of the debate, reminding Mr Bone to focus on the specific appointment of Mr John Pullinger rather than providing a detailed history of his interactions with the Electoral Commission.
Mr Chris Matheson supports Mr John Pullinger's nomination, highlighting that he was chosen unanimously by an interview panel for his political experience and strategic vision. He argues that criticism of the Electoral Commission comes from both sides of the House and urges giving Mr Pullinger a chance to implement reforms.
Expressed concerns about the expansion of the Electoral Commission's powers and its independence. He suggested that election periods should be shortened to benefit democracy, reflecting on evidence given to the Joint Committee on the Fixed-Term Parliaments Act.
Paid tribute to Sir John Holmes for his work and expressed concerns about the pressure on the Electoral Commission from the governing Conservative party. She emphasised the need for the commission's independence and its role in ensuring fair elections.
Thanked contributors and acknowledged concerns about the Electoral Commission’s operations. He referenced evidence submitted by the Conservative party to the Committee on Standards, suggesting that the commission should focus more on its executive functions and ensure clarity over governance and accountability.