current system of party funding Flashcards
What has been the trend in membership fees for the Labour Party since 2020?
Significant decline in membership fees, with a peak of 500,000 members in 2017 under Corbyn.
How has the Conservative Party’s membership changed from the 1950s to late 2024?
Dropped from 3 million in the 1950s to 131,000 in late 2024.
What impact has the decline in party membership had on funding?
Increased reliance on large donations from individuals and organizations.
What is the most significant source of party income?
Donations from various sources.
Which party has historically benefited from high-net-worth donors, particularly from the financial sector?
The Conservative Party.
What percentage of donations to the Conservative Party come from individuals linked to the City of London?
Around 50%.
Which billionaire is noted for funding numerous Conservative campaigns in the 2000s?
Lord Ashcroft.
What change occurred under Ed Miliband in 2014 regarding union funding for the Labour Party?
Union members were required to opt-in to fund Labour rather than making automatic contributions.
What is a concern regarding corporate donations to political parties?
They are often seen as a form of influence-buying.
What are Pressure Groups and Lobbyists known for in the context of party funding?
Their donations raise concerns about undue influence over policy-making.
Does the UK fully fund political parties through public means?
No, it has a limited system of state funding.
What is Short Money?
A fund established in 1975 to provide financial support to opposition parties in the House of Commons.
What is the impact of Short Money on smaller parties?
Smaller parties often struggle to access adequate funds due to proportional funding based on the number of seats.
What is Cranborne Money?
A fund that supports opposition parties in the House of Lords.
What are Policy Development Grants meant for?
To aid policy research for smaller parties.
What is a notable fundraising event for the Conservative Party?
Conservative Black and White Ball.
What type of experiences can attendees bid for at the Conservative Black and White Ball?
Experiences like playing tennis with Boris Johnson or dining with Cabinet ministers.
What is a fundraising event held by Labour?
Labour’s Gala Dinners.
What was the 2006 ‘Loans for Peerages’ scandal about?
Individuals who loaned large sums to Labour under Tony Blair were later nominated for peerages.
What are Cash for Access Scandals?
Accusations of offering privileged access to donors in exchange for financial support.
What is a potential issue with the reliance on large private donations in party funding?
Potential for corruption and undue influence.
What loophole exists in the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act (PPERA) 2000?
Donations can be funneled through unincorporated associations or NGOs to obscure their source.
What is a major criticism regarding state funding for political parties?
It is insufficient to reduce dependence on private donors.
