Aid to Political Parties

HC Deb 28 November 1979 vol 974 cc659-60W

Mr. Peter Robinson

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster how the figure of £1,400 paid to the United Ulster Unionist Coalition in 1979 was calculated.

Mr. St. John-Stevas

In accordance with the resolution of the House of 20 March 1975, as amended by the resolution of the House of 13 February 1978, the formula for calculating the amount of financial assistance to Opposition parties is as follows: £550 for each seat won by the party concerned plus £1.10 for every 200 votes cast for it at the preceding general election.

The figure of £1,400, which is within the maximum allowance calculated in accordance with this formula, is the amount of expenses claimed by the United Ulster Unionist Coalition for the quarter ending 31 March 1979.