Donations Political Parties 2022-03-10
2022-03-10
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The question follows reports of concerns regarding donations to political parties from individuals or companies with links to the Russian Government. These concerns highlight the need for robust due diligence measures.
What recent assessment has the commission made of the due diligence requirements for donations to political parties from individuals and companies with links to the Russian Government?
Voters deserve to know that elections in the UK are free and fair, with laws safeguarding them from unlawful influence. The law requires parties to confirm donor identity and permissibility, while the commission publishes larger donations for transparency. The commission has recommended introducing new duties based on existing money laundering regulations to enhance due diligence.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific assessment requested was not provided; instead, general statements about current regulations and recommendations were given.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Recent reports have raised concerns about the process of awarding certain peerages, suggesting a need for enhanced scrutiny. These concerns are linked to stories questioning the integrity of the awarding system.
The hon. Gentleman will have seen reports at the weekend surrounding concerns with regard to the awarding of a particular peerage, something on which there has been no credible denial. Does he agree that, when we see such stories, we realise that we need a stronger not a weaker Electoral Commission? For that reason, the Government should not be proceeding with the measures in the Elections Bill.
The right hon. Gentleman will permit me not to comment on specific cases, but the commission has recommended enhanced due diligence based on existing money laundering regulations to assess and manage risks of unlawful foreign funding. The commission also audits donations for compliance. If he has concerns about individual donations, he should inform the commission.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific peerage case was not addressed; instead, general statements on due diligence were provided.
Response accuracy