Green Party calls for look into accusations over illegal political donations

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VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – The leader of the BC Green Party is calling for an immediate criminal investigation after reports surfaced over the weekend that millions of dollars in illegal contributions are being funnelled to the BC Liberals by lobbyists.

In a statement, Andrew Weaver says the “disturbing practices must end.” This comes after reports in the Globe and Mail that suggest Christy Clark’s party is violating Election BC rules.

Weaver is calling on the agency along with the Mounties to look into the accusations before the May 9th provincial election, saying all British Columbians have a right to know if any laws have been broken before they go to the polls.

“The report raises very serious questions about influence peddling and corruption of our democratic process. The police and Elections BC have a duty to investigate the flow of money through lobbyists to both the Liberals and the NDP,” says Weaver.

The BC Liberals raised $12 million last year while the provincial NDP hasn’t released what it collected in 2016, but has also apparently pressured lobbyists for donations.

The Liberals sent NEWS 1130 a statement in regards to the Globe and Mail story.

“This weekend, the Globe and Mail reported that some individuals made donations that should have been made through corporate entities. It appears this was due to donors’ misunderstanding of the rules around political contributions in BC, and we are taking immediate steps to ensure all donors understand their legal obligations under the Election Act.

Whenever we become aware of behaviour that contravenes the Election Act, we work with Elections BC to address it. Remedies can include refunding or forfeiting donations.”

 

NEWS 1130 has reached out to Weaver and the Green Party for comment.

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