Spotlight on Corruption welcomes the Representation of the People Bill and the government’s commitment to implementing recommendations from the Rycroft Review to strengthen protections against foreign interference in UK democracy. However, it argues that key provisions should be strengthened to close remaining loopholes.
The submission calls for a robust ban on cryptocurrency donations which covers contributions to individual politicians as well as political parties and the emerging risks linked to politically affiliated memecoins. It recommends stronger donor declaration requirements and enhanced “know your donor” checks, including scrutiny of links to politically exposed persons and high-risk jurisdictions. It also argues that ministers should not be able to alter Electoral Commission guidance.
Further recommendations include tightening rules on corporate donations by linking permissibility to company profits rather than revenues, lowering reporting thresholds for unincorporated associations, and ensuring political parties cannot accept funds originating from impermissible foreign sources or criminal proceeds. More broadly, Spotlight proposes donation caps, spending limits, and tougher penalties for breaches. The submission also highlights international examples of political finance regimes from Canada, Ireland and Australia.
