Elections: Fraud

Baroness Taylor of Bolton Excerpts

Monday 1st November 2010 Lords Chamber

[Lord McNally]

I am not going to make comments on individual constituencies at the Dispatch box. I note what my noble friend says.

[Baroness Taylor of Bolton]

Would the Minister agree that probably everybody in this House would acknowledge that Ministers should not investigate electoral fraud? However, is there not a responsibility on the part of Ministers and, indeed, all of us, to acknowledge that we should not be fanning the flames and making wild accusations as has happened in the past?

[Lord McNally]

I agree with that, but after a general election, when there are close fights—we have all been through this—comments are made. What is important is that all parties co-operate in ensuring that the machinery we put in place works. Let us see what the Electoral Commission recommends, and then, if further action is needed, further action will be taken.