First reading for bill to reform election process

A bill designed to update election laws in the Isle of Man has its first reading in the Keys this week (3 March).

The Representation of the People (Amendment) Bill was drawn up after an independent review into election fraud at the Douglas East by-election of 2010.

A raft of proposals includes compulsory registration of political parties, a cap on the amount candidates can spend on their campaigns and a ban on anonymous donations. 

The Bill which went out to public consultation last year, is being moved by the new Minister for Policy and Reform John Shimmin.

The consultation received 20 responses, including submissions from several local authority commissioners, the LibVan party, election returning officers and the Positive Action Group.

Mr Shimmin says he hopes the bill will pass its hurdles without delay and be given Royal Assent by July, more than 12 months ahead of the next General Election in September 2016: