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Neill Blundell comments on donor row on Channel 4 and BBC Radio 4.
Channel 4 and BBC Radio 4
28 November 2007
Neill Blundell, partner in the Business & Regulatory Investigations Group was invited on to Channel 4 News and BBC Radio 4’s PM programme to comment on the latest donor row surrounding the Government.
Neill commented on the potential for criminal sanctions to be brought under two pieces of legislation. He said:
“A servant of the crown could face prosecution under the Prevention of Corruption Act 1906 which prohibits an agent from accepting and a person from offering ‘any gift or consideration as an inducement or reward’ for the agent to do any act in relation to his principal's affairs or business. Plainly ministers are within the remit of the 1906 Act. If Mr Abrahams received any special treatment for his building developments then he and the Minister may fall foul of the criminal law. If found guilty on indictment, the penalty is up to 7 years in prison.
“Section 54 of the Political Parties, Elections & Referendums Act 2000 could also come into play regarding donations made to third party. A donation received by a registered party MUST not be accepted by the party if - (b) the party is (whether because the donation is given anonymously or by reason of any deception or concealment) unable to ascertain the identity of the person. Penalty on indictment up to one year in prison.”
Further comment on the donor row
Neill has also commented further on this issue in the following media:
Q&A: Donations row legal implications - BBC website
More dodgy donor revelations - Channel 4 Lunchtime News
BBC One O'clock News
BBC Evening News
Newsnight
Sky Evening News - along with Shula de Jesery
Newsnight
Sunday Times - 2 December edition