Irene Campbell

I agree with my hon. Friend. To further close loopholes that allow foreign interference, the Committee on Standards in Public Life added that the Government “should legislate to ban foreign organisations or individuals from buying campaign advertising in the UK.” As public office holders, we are all beholden to the seven principles of public life, known as the Nolan principles: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership. To dedicate ourselves to these principles, we must ensure that there is no question about the transparency and lawfulness of the donations that we receive. Any rules regarding electoral donations must reflect and represent those principles, which we hold dear. The Labour manifesto promised to “protect democracy by strengthening the rules around donations”. In December, the Prime Minister’s spokesman confirmed that the Government are committed to “strengthening the rules around donations to political parties.” Regarding the commitment to reviewing the rules on political donations, he said there will be a “relevant update in due course.” In her response to the debate in March, the Minister agreed that foreign money has no place in the UK electoral system, and that the current rules do not provide strong safeguards. She also made clear the crucial role that the Electoral Commission has, and the possibility that its roles and responsibilities may change. There is much evidence and many policy interventions to be considered before the Government’s approach to electoral reform is published. However, now is the time for robust legislation that works. I look forward to hearing the Minister’s response, and the contributions of hon. Members from both sides of the House.