Electoral Commission concludes investigations into two political parties (December 2023)

Electoral Commission concludes investigations into two political parties

Investigations into two political parties have closed over the last month, with the Electoral Commission imposing fines in each case.

Investigations where offences were found:

Who we investigatedWhat we investigatedWhat we foundOutcome
Andover Alliance (de-registered political party)Failure to deliver the statement of accounts for 2022 by due dateOffences found

One fine of £200 imposed on party treasurer

Payment due by 19 December 2023

Labour Party (registered political party)Late reporting of 18 donationsOffences found

One fine of £250 imposed on party

Fine has been paid

Louise Edwards, Director of Regulation and Digital Transformation, said: 

"The political finance laws we enforce are there to ensure transparency and increase public confidence in our system. The laws are clear, so it is always disappointing when they are not followed.

“Where we find offences, we carefully consider the circumstances before deciding whether to impose a sanction. We take into account a range of factors before making our final decision, including proportionality.” 

Ends

For more information contact the Electoral Commission press office on 020 7271 0704, out of office hours 07789 920 414 or [email protected] 

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.