The Elections (Policy Development Grants Scheme) Order 2025
Introduction
On February 13, 2025, the UK government published the Elections (Policy Development Grants Scheme) Order 2025. This Order establishes a new grant scheme to support eligible political parties in developing and disseminating their policies.
Purpose
The purpose of the scheme is to enhance the quality of public debate by providing funding to political parties for policy development and communication. It aims to:
- Encourage parties to engage in rigorous and evidence-based policymaking.
- Foster informed discussion and debate on key issues facing the UK.
- Improve the transparency and accountability of political parties in their policymaking process.
Eligibility
To be eligible for funding under the scheme, a political party must:
- Be registered with the Electoral Commission.
- Have submitted a statement of intent to participate in the scheme.
- Have an annual income of less than £10 million (excluding donations from individuals and unions).
Grant Allocation
Grants will be allocated based on the following factors:
- The party’s overall annual income.
- The number of parliamentary constituencies in which the party stood candidates at the previous general election.
- The quality of the party’s policy proposals, as assessed by a panel of independent experts.
Use of Funds
Grants can be used for a range of policy development activities, including:
- Hiring policy researchers and analysts.
- Conducting research and consultations.
- Developing policy documents and reports.
- Disseminating policy proposals through public engagement events and online platforms.
Governance
The scheme will be administered by the Electoral Commission, which will:
- Assess applications and award grants.
- Monitor the use of funds and ensure transparency.
- Provide guidance and support to eligible parties.
Impact
The introduction of the Elections (Policy Development Grants Scheme) Order 2025 is expected to have several positive impacts:
- Improved quality of policymaking by political parties.
- Increased informed public debate on key issues.
- Enhanced transparency and accountability in political parties’ policymaking processes.
- Strengthened democracy by supporting the development of alternative policy perspectives.
Conclusion
The Elections (Policy Development Grants Scheme) Order 2025 represents a significant step forward in supporting the development and dissemination of informed policy proposals by the UK’s political parties. By providing funding for policy development, the scheme aims to foster a more robust and inclusive democratic process.
The Elections (Policy Development Grants Scheme) Order 2025
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