SNP EVIDENCE TO STANDARDS COMMITTEE ON PARTY FUNDING

SNP EVIDENCE TO STANDARDS COMMITTEE ON PARTY FUNDING

Giving evidence at a public hearing by the Committee on Standards in
Public Life today (Thursday), SNP Westminster leader Angus Robertson
MP welcomed the prospect of a new inquiry into the funding of
political parties.

The Committee on Standards in Public Life is considering whether to
mount a full inquiry. Other witnesses giving evidence included Sir
Hayden Philips, whose review in 2007 was suspended when talks between
the three UK parties were suspended, as well as Jack Straw, Francis
Maude, David Heath and Elfyn Llwyd.

Speaking after the public hearing, Mr Robertson said:

“Just like the overhaul of MPs expenses, reform of the party funding
system is vital to restore public trust in our democratic system.

“Sir Hayden Philips worked hard to find cross-party agreement on
reform but his talks ended in deadlock because of the three UK
parties, and it is now time to reopen and resolve the issue party
funding.

“As they consider whether or not to mount a full inquiry, I am pleased
that the Committee on Standards in Public Life is seeking views from
the parties of government in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland so
that all views are represented.

“As the party which sparked the cash for honours investigation, the
SNP is very much in favour of complete transparency in all aspects of
political finance, including party accounts and the registration
scheme that allows parties to be regulated. Openness in these areas as
vital to earning the trust of the electorate.”