STORY
Transparency International UK has launched a three part documentary series examining the growing role of wealthy donors in British politics and arguing that tighter controls are needed on political funding. Going, Going, Almost Gone: How the Super Rich Are Buying UK Democracy, produced with Democracy for Sale, looks at who provides large political donations, the access and potential influence associated with them and proposals to reform the system.
The organisation says political parties have become increasingly dependent on a relatively small number of wealthy donors. Its analysis found that in 2015 just 1% of private political donations came from individuals and companies giving £1 million or more, rising to 35% by 2024. Separately, Electoral Commission figures show that political parties, candidates and non party campaigners spent a record £94.5 million during the 2024 general election, compared with £72.6 million in 2019. Transparency International argues that the increasing cost of campaigning is creating pressure on parties to seek ever larger individual donations.
The documentary series features contributions from figures including author Oliver Bullough, Transparency International UK chief executive Duncan Hames, Spotlight on Corruption executive director Susan Hawley and Tax Justice UK executive director Faiza Shaheen. It is being released as Parliament considers the Representation of the People Bill, with Labour MP Stella Creasy proposing an amendment that would introduce a £100,000 annual cap on most political donations. The Government has already announced a separate £100,000 annual limit on donations from overseas electors and a moratorium on cryptocurrency donations as part of measures intended to protect elections from foreign financial interference.