The Committee on Standards in Public Life (CSPL) has today published a report on Regulating Election Finance. The report makes a number of recommendations to address modern campaign practices, deliver greater transparency and provide stronger safeguards around the source of money being donated. 

Commenting on the report, John Pullinger, Chair of the Electoral Commission, said:

“This is an important and valuable review by the Committee on Standards in Public Life. We agree that it is essential the regulatory system remains transparent, coherent and proportionate. The current regulatory framework works well overall, but the rules should reflect modern practices. 

“The Committee has made a number of practical recommendations to promote transparency and confidence. Many of these are consistent with changes the Commission has proposed, such as tighter donation controls, greater transparency of digital campaign spending and reforms to the candidate finance regime. We look forward to seeing the UK Government’s response in due course and to discussing how changes can be taken forward. 

“We will carefully consider the Committee’s other recommendations and observations, and any steps we can take to improve the way we work and our support of the regulatory regime. Our focus remains on helping parties and campaigners to understand, apply and comply with electoral law. We value the Committee’s input and scrutiny, and particularly their recognition of the importance of preserving the Commission’s independence, so that we can continue to fulfil the responsibilities we have been given and maintain public trust.”

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

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 reports to the UK, Scottish and Welsh parliaments.

Regulating Election Finance: report