Political Parties and Elections Bill

Of course I can give my hon. Friend that assurance. That issue is fundamentally important. These are all valuable reforms. Because our democracy is so precious and trust in it is so important, these improvements in the system should not be delayed while we continue to seek agreement on further progress. As my hon. Friend the Member for Battersea (Martin Linton) pointed out, delay is the friend of an imperfect status quo. I commend the Bill to the House. Question put, That the amendment be made:— The House divided: Ayes 196, Noes 290.