It was really good to attend the release of the report from Transparency International and the APPG on anti-corruption last week. “Less money in politics, cleaner money in politics and stronger enforcement" are all so urgently needed in our politics.
The report highlights a growing crisis in the UK: the unchecked influence of dishonest money in politics. While our system has not yet reached the extremes seen in the United States, the warning signs are clear. Opaque funding sources are undermining public trust and threatening the integrity of our democracy.
Unchecked spending favours the wealthiest voices while sidelining the public interest. One individual accounted for 12% of all UK political donations last year, and recent changes to spending limits have only widened the gap between ordinary citizens and those with deep pockets. Meanwhile, the Electoral Commission is constrained in its ability to enforce rules, leaving loopholes for foreign influence and financial misconduct.
Transparency International’s report lays out a clear and achievable path forward: capping donations, reducing campaign spending limits, requiring stricter reporting of donation sources, and empowering the Electoral Commission to act decisively. These reforms would be a significant step toward a fairer, more compassionate political system where honest public interest triumphs over private wealth.
This is a critical moment for change. With a sceptical public, who have completely and reasonably lost trust in Britain’s Political system, watching closely, the government has an opportunity to demonstrate leadership, address systemic vulnerabilities, and restore faith in our democratic institutions.
Let’s ensure our democracy works for everyone, not just the wealthy few.
Unfortunately, because of the dishonest influence of big money in politics, we need to ask you for your financial support to make sure we can keep fighting for a new politics where public interest triumphs over private wealth.
Please support Compassion in Politics.
Best regards,
Jennifer Nadel
Compassion in Politics