Electoral Commission concludes three investigations into political parties

17 Jan 2023 12:22 PM

Investigations into three political parties have closed over the last month, with the Electoral Commission imposing a fine on one party. Publishing closed cases is an important part of delivering transparency in political finance in the UK.

Who we investigated	What we investigated	What we found	Outcome
English Democrats (political party)	Late delivery of annual statement of accounts	Offence found	£1,500 fine
Portsmouth Independent Party (political party)	Late delivery of annual statement of accounts	Offence found	No sanction Case closed
Portsmouth Independent Party (political party)	Late notification of change of registered officer	Offence found	No sanction Case closed
Scotland’s Independence Referendum Party (de-registered political party)	Failure to deliver annual statement of accounts	Offence found	No sanction Case closed

Louise Edwards, Director of Regulation, said:

“Political finance laws are in place to make sure the system is transparent and accurate. The requirements for political parties are clear so it’s disappointing when they are not met.

“We consider every case in line with our Enforcement Policy. Where we find an offence has taken place, we take a proportionate approach and do not automatically issue a sanction.

For more information contact the Electoral Commission press office on 020 7271 0704, out of office hours 07789 920 414 or press@electoralcommission.org.uk

Notes to editors

1. The Electoral Commission is the independent body which oversees elections and regulates political finance in the UK. We work to promote public confidence in the democratic process and ensure its integrity by:

enabling the delivery of free and fair elections and referendums, focusing on the needs of electors and addressing the changing environment to ensure every vote remains secure and accessible
regulating political finance – taking proactive steps to increase transparency, ensure compliance and pursue breaches
using our expertise to make and advocate for changes to our democracy, aiming to improve fairness, transparency and efficiency

The Commission was set up in 2000 and reports to the UK, Welsh, and Scottish parliaments.

2. This release forms part of the Commission’s regular monthly investigations update, an important part of its commitment to deliver transparency in political finance in the UK. Information of this nature is published routinely on the third Tuesday of each month. Details for sanctions from previous months are available.

3. Penalties imposed by the Commission go into the Consolidated Fund. This is managed by HM Treasury and not the Electoral Commission.