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By Newzyy Staff — 3h ago
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has reversed his position on capping political donations, sparking criticism from activists and Labour MPs who argue the move undermines efforts to reduce the influence of wealthy donors.
The government confirmed it will not support amendments to the elections bill that would limit the size of individual or corporate donations. This decision follows pressure from Labour’s trade union allies, who warned that strict caps could weaken their ability to fund the party. Just weeks ago, Burnham had indicated support for a £500,000 cap in a private email to an electoral reform campaigner.
Labour backbencher Stella Creasy condemned the reversal, stating that unchecked donations allow wealthy individuals to shape political outcomes. She warned that failing to act would further erode public trust in Westminster. Shaun Bowler, the campaigner who received Burnham’s earlier pledge, accused the prime minister of breaking a promise to voters by abandoning the reform.
Shaun Bowler argued that large donations distort democracy by giving disproportionate influence to a small group of donors. He urged Burnham to reconsider before the bill returns to Parliament next week, calling on the government to prioritise transparency over political convenience.
Darren Hughes of the Electoral Reform Society highlighted concerns that unrestricted donations foster perceptions of corruption, undermining faith in the political system. A Labour source, however, defended the bill’s focus on preventing foreign interference and lowering the voting age to 16, dismissing the donations cap as a secondary issue.
The elections bill remains one of the most contentious pieces of legislation in Burnham’s early tenure, with critics accusing the government of prioritising partisan interests over broader democratic reform.