Naomi Long MP said: “It is important in a democracy for there to be proper regulation and transparency of lobbying activity, to ensure that no organisation is unduly influencing political decisions; however, I have serious concerns at the speed at which this Bill is going through Parliament, as it has not been given adequate scrutiny and as a result, may have significant unintended consequences.
“This Bill as it stands, could impose significant restrictions on the entirely legitimate and non-partisan activities of many charitable organisations and good cause campaigners who seek to raise issues with political parties. If passed in its current form, it could result in a significant reduction in the involvement of civic society in voicing their support or opposition for major decisions and I believe it requires major change to make it fit for purpose.
“I voted against this Bill at Second Reading as I believe that full pre-legislative scrutiny should be undertaken urgently to produce a Bill which will address this issue properly.”
Ends