Watch Live: CityNews Tonight Vancouver

Opposition tables reform to stop corporate donations

VICTORIA (NEWS 1130) – BC’s official opposition took the private member’s route to introduce a proposed law to reform campaign financing, including banning donations to political parties from unions and corporations.

Liberal Attorney General Critic Andrew Wilkinson says the private member’s bill to amend BC’s Election Act is similar to a proposal they made in June, before the Liberals lost a confidence vote.

The idea never made it to the Legislature because the NDP formed a minority government with the support of the three Green members who won their riding during the May election.

Campaign finance reform was a key election promise for both the New Democrats and the Greens, and NDP Attorney General David Eby says a law banning union and corporate political donations and capping donations by individuals will be introduced next week in the Legislature.

The New Democrats introduced six private members bills seeking to reform the campaign finance law while in opposition, but the Liberal government rejected each attempt during its 16 years in power.

While campaigning, the NDP promised legislation to stop corporate donations, but that hasn’t happened yet. In fact, the premier went ahead with a couple of fundraisers including one event that was $500 a plate which drew the ire of Green Party Leader Andrew Weaver.

BC earned a Wild West reputation on campaign financing for its unlimited donation rules that saw political parties stage fundraising events where donors paid thousands to attend and mingle with those in power.

Top Stories

Top Stories

Most Watched Today