Ideas: Ban funding of political parties by commercial organisations

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Ideas: Ban funding of political parties by commercial organisations

05.10.2009 // by Guest

This idea comes from James in Kent:

What's the big idea?:

I would like to see a complete ban on the funding of political parties by commercial organisations and a strict upper limit on any individual donation, plus complete transparency on any donation made. The ban should also extend to individuals who do not pay UK tax. I would also like to see more representation in government for members of the smaller political parties based on percentage of votes cast.

Why is this change important to you?:

I have really embraced two separate issues, in the 'ideas' box above, i.e. the issue of funding and the issue of representation. I think the funding of political parties by commercial organisations and individuals with large sums of money viz. Mr. Ashcroft, who is allegedly funding the Conservative Party to the tune of £10m. pounds is bad for democracy because it often works against the smaller parties who have relatively limited funds and are often funded purely by member contribution.

As regards the issue of representation, I think it would benefit our democracy if the smaller parties had a level of representation in government commensurate with the number of votes they receive. Currently, we seem to be locked into a perpetual two party system with each party controlled by individuals who exhibit a particular mind-set i.e. 'market fundamentalism'. Nothing seems to change this. We urgently require new thinking in a number of areas. This is where better representation could be of benefit. Also, it will help to avoid the current situation where any vote cast that does not actually elect an MP is totally wasted.