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Electoral Commission
20 January 2021
Lead MP
Jacob Rees-Mogg
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
Northern IrelandDemocracy & Elections
Other Contributors: 6
At a Glance
Jacob Rees-Mogg raised concerns about electoral commission in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
Moves a motion to appoint Alexander Attwood as an Electoral Commissioner for the period ending on 31 January 2024. Discusses the process of appointment under the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, highlighting that Mr Attwood is one of four nominated commissioners and was chosen by the interview panel based on his significant political experience in Northern Ireland and his ability to meet all essential criteria.
Afzal Khan
Lab
Manchester Rusholme
Thanks Mr Alastair Ross for his service. Acknowledges the work of the panel appointed by the Speaker’s Committee, which selected Alexander Attwood to serve as an electoral commissioner based on his experience in consensus building and handling hostile criticism. The Opposition supports the motion and wishes Mr Attwood well.
Peter Bone
Con
Wellingborough
Expresses concerns about the appointment of Mr Attwood as an electoral commissioner for a three-year term, criticising the Electoral Commission's handling of the 2016 EU referendum and questioning its impartiality. He highlights instances where individuals involved in the leave campaign faced malicious attacks by the commission, undermining their confidence in the organisation.
Patrick Grady
SNP
Glasgow North
Welcomed the endorsement of future referendums, looking forward to a potential Scottish independence referendum. Criticised hijacking of debates on technical matters and expressed faith in processes that selected Alastair Attwood as electoral commissioner.
Ian Paisley Jnr
DUP
North Antrim
Congratulated Alastair Ross for his time as an electoral commissioner but raised concerns over the appointment of a new member for three years when the Electoral Commission itself is under review. Questioned the lack of transparency and fairness in the appointment process, citing issues with previous investigations by the commission.
Nigel Evans
Con
Cannock Chase
Apologised for technical difficulties during the debate but ensured that Ian Paisley's speech was clear and audible.
Jacob Rees-Mogg
Con
North East Somerset
Thanked hon members for support, noting Mr Attwood’s qualifications and suitability. Addressed the debate on why this appointment is for three years rather than two. Raised concerns about confidence in the Electoral Commission following issues with Richard Murphy and Darren Grimes. Urged PACAC to examine these points and make recommendations.
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