HC Deb 05 July 2001 vol 371 c268W
Mr. Waterson

To ask the right hon. Member for Berwick-upon-Tweed, representing the Speaker's Committee on the Electoral Commission, when the Commission intends to publish its plans for spending on public awareness campaigns under section 13 of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000; and if he will make a statement. [1445]

Mr. Beith

The Electoral Commission acquired responsibility for promoting public awareness of electoral and democratic systems under section 13 of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 on 1 July 2001. I understand from the Chairman of the Commission that information about the Commission's spending plans under section 13 of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000 will be included as part of its overall Five Year Plan. This will be published following consideration by the. Speaker's Committee at its next meeting, whose date is currently under discussion. Copies will be placed in the Libraries of both Houses.

Mr. Waterson

To ask the right hon. Member for Berwick-upon-Tweed, representing the Speaker's Committee on the Electoral Commission, (1) what reports the Commission(a) has submitted and (b) intends to submit to the Secretary of State under section 6 of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000; if he will place the reports in the Library; and if he will make a statement; [1443]

(2) if he will make a statement on the Commission's plans to conduct a review of the administration of the general election of 7 June under section 5 of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000; and when the Commission estimates that the review will be completed. [1444]

Mr. Beith

I understand from the Chairman of the Electoral Commission that the Commission intends to publish a report on the administration of the 2001 general election later this month. The report will also deal with wider issues relating to the election. A further report, addressing issues of election expenditure, is planned for spring 2002. These reports will set out the Commission's preliminary views on the need for a review programme for modernising the electoral process.

The Commission has not, to date, submitted any reports to the Secretary of State under section 6 of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000. It is expected to do so following the completion of its review programme.