Electoral Commission: Sam Younger Question 5

Dear Sam Younger

In the case of a substantial donation or series of donations from an individual, in a relatively short space of time:

Are there any checks made on
(a) the affordability for the donor
(b) the fundraising methodology and
(c) provenance if cash (money laundering)?

Shouldn't there be such checks?

Should there be a cooling off period as there would be for other large transactions?

And should not the transaction be recorded in writing in a legally tight form so that both parties have a record of whether the money is a gift or a loan and in either case whether there is any specific intended use and in the latter case what are repayment terms.

I am particularly concerned about elderly or otherwise vulnerable people being taken advantage of.

Best wishes

Labour of Love

Mr Younger is appearing on 18 Doughty Street tomorrow. Iain wants question suggestions. Here are ten of many, concentrating on election spends nitty gritty.