The UK’s elections watchdog has made a definitive Electoral Commission decision. Specifically, it will not open a new investigation into the Labour Together think tank. This decision follows a direct request from the Conservative Party. Consequently, the ruling ends a recent political controversy.
Earlier this week, Conservative Chairman Kevin Hollinrake urged action. He argued that new evidence demanded a fresh inquiry. However, the commission firmly dismissed this call on Friday. Importantly, officials stated they found no evidence of new potential offences. They also expressed confidence in their original investigation’s conclusions.
This matter centers on Labour Together’s past financial reporting. The group was previously led by Morgan McSweeney. Now, McSweeney serves as Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s chief of staff. Back in 2021, the Electoral Commission fined Labour Together £14,250. The fine was for late and inaccurate donation reports.
The Conservatives pointed to newly leaked emails. They suggested these emails showed intentional misleading of regulators. Hollinrake claimed the goal was secrecy. He alleged donors were hidden from the then-Labour leadership under Jeremy Corbyn. Therefore, the Conservative chairman pushed for full transparency.
A Labour Party spokesperson strongly criticized the Tory move. They called it a “pathetic and desperate attempt to stay relevant”. They also accused the Conservatives of stooping to new lows.
Meanwhile, Labour Together defended its position. A spokesperson stated the group had proactively reported its own concerns originally. They also emphasized full cooperation with the first investigation. Furthermore, they assured ongoing compliance with all electoral rules.
This Electoral Commission decision reaffirms the watchdog’s original stance. The regulator sees no basis for further action. Despite this, Hollinrake insists the issue is not over. He vows to reveal more evidence. He also plans to push for an inquiry by the parliamentary standards commissioner.
Ultimately, the watchdog’s latest Electoral Commission decision closes the door for now. The political debate over party funding, however, is certain to continue.
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