Political Parties: Funding

Lord Wallace of Saltaire Excerpts

Wednesday 15th January 2025 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Taylor of Stevenage (Lab)]

I agree with my noble friend that there are a large number of people still unregistered. When one goes out campaigning it is very clear that there are people who are not registered to vote who probably should be. We all need to address this and look at whatever way we can of making sure that everybody who is entitled to vote is not only registered to vote but takes part in our democracy. That is a very important part of our process, and we will do all we can to increase both voter registration and participation in elections.

[Lord Wallace of Saltaire (LD)]

My Lords, the Intelligence and Security Committee’s Russia report hinted at the very considerable extent of Russian money flowing into British politics, both to some political parties and, of course, during the Brexit campaign. Will the Government consider whether the redacted parts of that report should now be published to inform the public fully?

[Baroness Taylor of Stevenage (Lab)]

I am happy to look at that. We are very aware that this is a real issue, and we continue to be concerned about it. We will continue to take whatever steps we can to avoid foreign interference in our elections.