Top news today: party funding scandal, Scotland, flags
Author: Zoe Stavri
Published on Sep 21, 2012
In the news today, the scandal surrounding parties accepting donations from non-dom donors continues, a row in Scottish Parliament and Eric Pickles has changed regulations on flying flags.
PARTIES URGED TO HAND BACK DONATIONS BANNED BY “GHOST LAW”- John Mann MP is urging political parties to hand back donations from donors not paying UK income tax. A law was passed to crack down on this practice in 2009, but it is not being enforced. Why aren’t the government interested in enforcing this law?
http://www.thetimes.co.uk/tto/news/politics/article3545204.ece [paywalled]
Our view: http://unlockdemocracy.org.uk/blog/entry/why-is-the-government-dragging-its-heels-over-party-funding-law
LABOUR ACCUSES SNP MSP OF TRYING TO “GAG” QUESTIONS ON THE EU- Holyrood’s European Committee convener cautioned a Labour MSP she would be in breach of code of conduct if she persisted in demanding a committee enquiry into the EU question. A shouting match occurred. Should Scotland discuss the EU question openly?
http://www.scotsman.com/the-scotsman/politics/scottish-independence-labour-accuses-snp-msp-of-trying-to-gag-questions-on-eu-1-2540055
http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/political-news/north-korea-jibe-as-salmond-fights-to-protect-eu-secrets.18934170
ERIC PICKLES CUTS FLAG FLYING RED TAPE- From October 12, express consent will not be required to display a wide range of flags. Currently, this permission costs up to £335. What flags will you be flying?
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/eric-pickles-cuts-flag-flying-red-tape-8160110.htm