---

Political Parties and Elections Bill

I promise that we will have that in mind, but a number of issues arise. One is that for a fixed monetary penalty, a notice must be served allowing representation to be made by the individual or the party to what is intended. Also, after representation has been made, there is a right of appeal to a county court against the decision of the commission and any penalties that have been imposed. Thus, careful balances have already been made. Of course, my noble friend has a good point. The threshold may be lowered and the commission may be tempted more often than it has been in the past. That is possible. But it is important that the system is enforced, as I think he will agree, so that public confidence can be upheld. When I write to him, I will make sure that I explain why I do not feel that there is a real danger that someone in the position of the person he described will in any way come out worse than under present conditions.