Mr. RobertsonTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps he is taking to ensure that Sinn Fein complies with rules relating to the funding of political parties from overseas sources; and if he will make a statement. [105360]
§ Mr. Mike O'BrienIn its report on the Funding of Political Parties, the Neill Committee recommended some adjustment for Northern Ireland parties, on a temporary basis, from the provisions on party funding which it recommended should be put in place. The Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Bill, which is designed to implement the Neill Committee's report, would accordingly allow my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary to make such provision by Order. Consideration is being given to precisely what form the adjustment would take.