John Baron MP votes against Government on EU referendum rules

MP says Government should accept Electoral Commission views on ‘purdah’

Yesterday evening, John Baron MP voted for amendment 11 during the first day of the Committee Stage of the EU Referendum Bill. The amendment would have ensured the Government respects ‘purdah’ around the referendum, in line with standard practice before elections.

Under purdah rules, the Government is prevented from using the machinery of the Civil Service and other Government agencies to advocate or push a particular line, or to make major policy announcements on the Government’s behalf. The Government believes purdah around the EU referendum would prevent the Government from carrying out essential everyday business, a view contested by the Electoral Commission.

John said,

“It is essential that the EU Referendum is perceived to be free and fair, and there is no reason why the Government should not respect the normal purdah rules around the referendum – these are the conclusions of the Electoral Commission.”

“It would be unacceptable to allow one side to use the machinery of Government, as this would inevitably favour one side against the other. I will maintain pressure on the Government to amend the Bill accordingly in its subsequent stages.”