Political Parties: Finance

Mr. Stewart Jackson
To ask the Secretary of State for Justice whether he plans to make an order under section 76A of the Representation of the People Act 1983 to vary the maximum amount of candidates’ election expenses.

Mr. Wills
The Government do not intend to vary the maximum amount of candidates’ election expenses under section 76 of the Representation of the People Act 1983 before the next parliamentary general election. In reaching this view I have consulted the Electoral Commission, who agree that an increase in spending limits is not necessary at this point. I will be placing copies of both letters in the Library.