Today, the Security Minister and I have laid and published the Government’s full response to Philip Rycroft’s independent review into countering foreign financial influence and interference in UK politics, which we jointly commissioned in November 2025. We did so to rigorously test the strength of our current democratic system and to ensure we are taking decisive action to stay ahead of a rapidly evolving threat.

We are grateful to Mr Rycroft for his comprehensive and thoughtful work. His review provides a clear assessment of a threat that is changing both in nature and in method and is demanding of a co-ordinated and forward-looking response: a response which we are pleased to bring before this House today.

Protecting the integrity of our precious democracy is a fundamental responsibility of Government. The UK already has a strong framework in place to detect, deter and disrupt foreign interference which will be underpinned by a comprehensive programme of work to reform and modernise our elections as well as a sustained cross-government effort to protect our democracy and those who participate in it.

This work is supported by the Defending Democracy Task Force, which brings together expertise from across government - the security, intelligence and policy communities – and beyond to coordinate the UK’s response to hostile state activity and wider threats to our democratic processes. Through this approach we are ensuring that risks relating to political finance are addressed as part of a broader and integrated strategy to protect our democracy and those who participate in it.

The Government’s response sets out a wide-ranging programme of work to strengthen resilience across the political system. This includes measures to enhance transparency in political finance, strengthen enforcement and address vulnerabilities in emerging channels and technologies. Our approach will also ensure that those engaged in political activity are better equipped to identify and mitigate risks. For those who continue to disrupt and divide, the penalties will be very clear.

A number of these measures are being taken forward through the Representation of the People Bill currently before Parliament, reflecting the Government’s commitment to act at pace where legislative change is required. Other elements will be progressed through continued engagement such as with the Electoral Commission, political parties and the wider electoral community so that approaches are effective and proportionate as threats evolve.

In doing so, we will ensure that any measures introduced are practical and accessible, avoiding unnecessary administrative burdens while maintaining robust safeguards against abuse.

We have already announced some critical action in response to the Review’s findings, including addressing risks associated with overseas donations and cryptoassets. We are now accepting the full set of recommendations and will continue to work closely with all our partners to determine the most effective means of implementation in areas where further development is required.

Philip Rycroft’s review and this response represent an important step in strengthening the UK’s resilience to foreign interference. The Government will continue to act with determination to protect the integrity of our democratic system, ensuring that it is the true voice of the British people, and their voice alone, which determines the future of our country.

https://www.theyworkforyou.com/wms/?id=2026-07-06.hcws188.0