Burnham Withdraws Support for Political Donation Cap

Burnham's decision follows lobbying from Labour's trade union backers, who warned that proposed amendments to the elections bill could impede their ability to contribute financially to the party. He had previously communicated support for a £500,000 cap on individual or organizational donations to campaigner Shaun Bowler, and suggested it should be reduced over time.

Activists, including Stella Creasy, who has tabled an amendment for a donation cap, expressed dismay. Shaun Bowler accused Burnham of breaking a promise. A Labour source stated that the government's priority for the elections bill remains lowering the voting age to 16 and strengthening rules against foreign interference, but is not ruling out further steps in the future.

While the government intends to cap donations from British people living abroad at £100,000, a debate is expected over domestic donation limits. Creasy has proposed a revised amendment suggesting a £500,000 cap that could be adjusted by ministers, but this compromise has not yet garnered sufficient support.