07 Jul 2008
The Speaker of the House of Commons announced today that Jenny Watson is to be proposed as the new Chair of the Electoral Commission. Commenting on the news, Sam Younger, the Commission's current Chair, said:
"I'm delighted that Jenny Watson has been nominated as my successor. The next few years are likely to see important developments in the regulation of party and election finance as well as in the Commission's role promoting high standards in voter registration and elections.
"Jenny Watson has all the experience and qualities needed to lead the Commission successfully in the next phase of its life."
/ends
For further information contact
The Electoral Commission press office on 0207 271 0704 (Out of office hours 07789 920414)
Email press@electoralcommission.org.uk
Notes to editors
1. 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.
2. The Speaker has agreed that Jenny Watson’s name should go forward to the final stages of the process to appoint a successor to Sam Younger, whose second term as chair ends in December 2008.
3. Mr Speaker’s decision follows an open competition carried out by an independent panel and consultation with the leaders of political parties at Westminster.
4. The chair of the Commission will be appointed by HM The Queen following an Address from the House of Commons.
