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The Electoral Commission has now concluded its investigation following a complaint made by Blackford’s solicitors on behalf of the Conservative and Unionist Party. The complaint made allegations of bias about the conduct of a Commission member of staff, Louise Edwards. The investigation has not found evidence of ongoing bias, or appearance of bias or that Louise Edwards in any way breached the Commission’s code of conduct.

In addition to this, it did find that procedures for ensuring impartiality of investigations are in place and that Commission policies relating to political activity of staff are appropriate

For further information contact Electoral Commission press office on 020 7271 0704 orpress@electoralcommission.org.uk Out of office hours 07789 920 414

Notes to editors

• The Electoral Commission is an independent body set up by the UK Parliament. Our aim is integrity and public confidence in the UK’s democratic process. We regulate party and election finance and set standards for well-run elections and are responsible for the conduct and regulation of referendums held under the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act (2000).