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Political Parties and Elections Bill

I am very grateful for the Minister’s reply and clarification as to where the 28-day limit applies, which is very helpful. Paragraph 3(3) of Schedule 2 states: ""A notice under paragraph 2(4) must include information as to … the grounds for imposing the fixed monetary penalty … how payment may be made … the period within which payment may be made … any early payment discounts or late payment penalties"." We are interested in the concept of the early payment discount and whether it will be coupled with "easy payment" terms. It is likely that if the fine is set at level 5—that is, £5,000—a hefty tariff will apply. The notice must also include information on rights of appeal. Our amendment was trying to tease out a little further whether there were any time limits and how long someone could spin out the appeals process. What would be their rights of appeal, for example, and how long would they be given to pay? We basically wanted a general discussion on that, but the Minister has been extremely helpful in providing assurances and understanding. As such, I beg leave to withdraw the amendment. Amendment 40 withdrawn. Amendments 41 to 46 not moved.