DONATIONS to political parties soared by almost a quarter last year to more than £50 million, Electoral Commission figures showed yesterday.Political parties are required to make four quarterly returns to the Commission annually, providing details of cash and non-cash donations received.
By Graham Dines
DONATIONS to political parties soared by almost a quarter last year to more than £50 million, Electoral Commission figures showed yesterday.
Political parties are required to make four quarterly returns to the Commission annually, providing details of cash and non-cash donations received.
During the last quarter of 2005, 16 political parties received reportable donations totalling more than £7.5 million. Labour reported total donations of £3,025,254, Tories £3,259,889, and Lib Dems £805,223. The Conservative Party reported three “impermissible” donations totalling £6,250 which were returned to donors.
Regional donations: Peter Mottershead, £2,000 to Maldon and Chelmsford East Conservative Association; Ken Jones, £1,200 to Colchester constituency Liberal Democrats; Paul Smith, £1,020 to Colchester constituency Liberal Democrats; Ipswich borough council Liberal Democrat group, £1,060 to Ipswich constituency Liberal Democrats.
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