HC Deb 01 March 1976 vol 906 c409W
Mr. Bates

asked the Lord President of the Council if he will bring forward proposals regarding the rates and limits of financial assistance to Opposition parliamentary parties.

Mr. Edward Short

A scheme to provide financial assistance to opposition parties in carrying out their duties at Westminster, based on a formula which takes account of the number of seats held and the votes cast for each party, was approved by the House on 20th March 1975.

Mr. Bates

asked the Lord President of the Council when he expects to be able to announce proposals for financial help to national political party organisations.

Mr. Edward Short

This matter is within the terms of reference of the independent committee under the chairmanship of Lord Houghton which is at present considering the general question of financial assistance to political parties in carrying out their functions outside Parliament.

Mr. Brotherton

asked the Lord President of the Council upon what date he expects the Houghton Committee on State Aid to Political Parties to report.

Mr. Edward Short

I understand that the Committee hopes to report in the summer.