Political party spending limits: independent assessment (29 August 2026)
The UK government has requested an independent review of political party spending limits ahead of potential 2027 changes, seeking Electoral Commission advice by July 2027.
The Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, alongside the First Secretary of State, formally asked the Electoral Commission to assess current spending limits for political parties, third-party campaigners, and candidates in reserved elections. This request follows the framework set out in the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, which allows the government to adjust limits via secondary legislation based on the commission’s recommendations. The review aims to evaluate whether existing thresholds remain suitable for the current political and campaigning landscape. The government has set a deadline of July 2027 for the commission to deliver its findings and advice.
The Electoral Commission will conduct the review independently, examining spending limits for registered political parties, third-party campaigners, and candidates in reserved elections. The assessment will consider factors such as inflation, campaigning methods, and the scale of electoral activity to determine if adjustments are necessary. The commission’s role is to provide evidence-based recommendations rather than impose changes directly. Any proposed amendments to spending limits would require parliamentary approval through secondary legislation.
The review is part of a broader process to ensure transparency and fairness in political campaigning, as spending limits are designed to prevent excessive expenditure that could distort electoral competition. The government’s request does not pre-judge the outcome of the commission’s assessment but signals a proactive approach to reviewing regulatory frameworks. The commission’s independence is central to maintaining public confidence in the electoral system.
The timing of the review aligns with the government’s internal planning cycle for the year 2027, ensuring that any potential changes to spending limits are considered in advance of future elections. The Electoral Commission’s advice will inform whether existing limits remain appropriate or require revision to reflect evolving campaigning practices and economic conditions.