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NEW BLOGPOST: Why we need an independent Electoral Commission
Amid inquiries by @PublicStandards and @CommonsPACAC, some question whether we need @ElectoralCommUK. But most experts say we do. In a new post, @chhkincaid and I survey the evidence. (1/12) https://constitution-unit.com/2020/10/07/why-we-need-an-independent-electoral-commission/
Amid inquiries by @PublicStandards and @CommonsPACAC, some question whether we need @ElectoralCommUK. But most experts say we do. In a new post, @chhkincaid and I survey the evidence. (1/12) https://constitution-unit.com/2020/10/07/why-we-need-an-independent-electoral-commission/
First, there is lots of evidence from those on the ground that the Commission generally does a good job.
For example, @AEA_Elections says the Commission ‘is an excellent provider of guidance, supporting resources and good practice', and that its work is 'invaluable'. (2/12)
For example, @AEA_Elections says the Commission ‘is an excellent provider of guidance, supporting resources and good practice', and that its work is 'invaluable'. (2/12)
Elections expert @justin_t_fisher notes: 'Surveys of electoral agents repeatedly demonstrate good levels of satisfaction with the Commission as a source of advice and guidance in respect of electoral administration and finance.’ (3/12)
Second, many argue that, where problems have arisen, that has often been because the Commission's powers are too limited, not because they are too strong. For example, scholar @ClarkAlistairJ says the Commission’s current civil sanctioning powers are ‘entirely inadequate’. (4/12)
In a key theme picked up by many, @AEA_Elections says, the Commission’s ‘regulatory powers should be expanded to include the enforcement of candidate finance laws rather than having to rely on the police taking enforcement forward’. (5/12)
Third and most fundamentally, having an independent and dedicated regulator of elections and parties is essential to protect the fair democratic process. (6/12)
The UK Anti-Corruption Coalition, for example, says ‘The politicisation of regulators should be avoided at all cost, as doing so creates the opportunity for abuses of power that undermine democracy and weaken trust in the political process.’ (7/12)
The Conservative Party criticises the Commission for unaccountability. But that ignores extensive existing accountability mechanisms. A direct role for ministers would undermine the whole point of an independent regulator. Supervision must remain cross-party and non-party. (9/12)
Worryingly, one element of such oversight has already been undermined: the Speaker's Committee on the Electoral Commission now has a one-party majority for the first time ever. That is scandalous. The power lies in the hands of the Commons Speaker to change it. (10/12)
The apparent ousting of the Commission's Chair, reported at the weekend, only heightens such concerns. (11/12) https://www.telegraph.co.uk/politics/2020/10/03/chairman-election-watchdog-forced/
The bottom line: Having an independent, non-partisan regulator is indispensable for maintain the democratic level playing. The Electoral Commission might not be perfect. But its role is vital in ensuring we continue to have elections that are both free and fair. (12/12)
