HC Deb 15 November 1973 vol 864 cc227-8W
Q7. Mr. Leonard

asked the Prime Minister if he will seek talks with the Leader of the Opposition and the leader of the Liberal Party to establish an appropriate forum to consider the question of public contributions to the financing of political parties.

The Prime Minister

As the House will appreciate, the financing of political parties from public funds raises major constitutional questions, but my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary has arranged a meeting with the hon. Member for Hitchin (Mrs. Shirley Williams) and her colleagues to discuss any proposals they may have in mind on this subject. I am sure my right hon. Friend would be willing to meet representatives of the Liberal Party as well.