Carmichael welcomes new Bill to limit foreign political donations
Orkney and Shetland MP, Alistair Carmichael, has welcomed the introduction today of the Political Donations Bill, led by fellow Liberal Democrat MP Manuela Perteghella.
The Bill, co-sponsored by Mr Carmichael, would allow for a cap to be set on political donations and for the government to act on political donations made by foreign nationals through companies which is a loophole in existing law.
Mr Carmichael said:
“I am glad to be a co-sponsor of this Bill. The situation in the United States should be a warning to us all of the dangers of money dominating our politics – still more so when that money comes from foreign sources. Now is the time to act and set ourselves on a better course.
“Whatever our party and whatever our politics we ought to be able to unite around safe limits on political donations. If they are wise the government will work with our party and across Parliament to fill these gaps in the law.”
Introducing the Bill Manuela Perteghella, MP for Stratford-upon-Avon, said:
“This is a Bill that will take big money out of British politics, protect our democracy from foreign interference, and restore public trust in our electoral system.
“For too long, our politics has been exposed. It is far too easy for those who do not have the national interest of our country at heart, or who have made their wealth through illicit means, to funnel money into British politics. The Bill is simple in its aim: to ensure that it is the people of this country, not the deep pockets of foreign billionaires, oligarchs or corporate interests, who decide our country’s future in elections and referendums.
“Britain has always been a nation that stands for fairness, democracy and integrity. It is time for us to take a firm stand against undue influence in our politics, and ensure that our democracy serves the people. The Bill is not radical; it is reasonable, necessary and long overdue. It will ensure that political influence is not bought, but earned through genuine public support.”