HL Deb 21 October 1991 vol 531 c125WA
Lord Jenkins of Putney

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether, as trade unions have to ballot members on political funds, they will support legislation to require companies to ballot shareholders before making political donations.

Lord Reay

There is a general requirement in the Companies Act for directors' reports to disclose the amount and beneficiary of any money given for political purposes exceeding in aggregate £200. Shareholders and potential shareholders are thus made aware of the company's policy and can act accordingly. In the Government's view this gives shareholders sufficient protection.