§ Mr. Richard Wainwrightasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representations he has received as to the inadequacy of the present election expenses limits for local authority elections; and what action he intends to take.
§ Mr. EnnalsIn England and Wales representations have been received over the past few years from one local authority, two local authority associations and one political party. The matter is among those now under consideration by the Government as part of the review of electoral law.
In the City of London the Representation of the People Act 1949 fixes £250 as the maximum amount of election expenses which may be incurred by a candidate for election as a sheriff of the City. Representations were received last year as to the inadequacy of this amount, and The City of London (Various Powers) (No. 2) Bill, now awaiting consideration in another place, includes provision for increasing the maximum to £450.