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Corrupt and Illegal Practices Act (1883) - Coggle Diagram
Corrupt and Illegal Practices Act (1883)
Causes
Similar legislation previously discussed in 1854 in 1868.
Shock after revelations of unparalleled election spending in 1880.
Media coverage of 1868 and 1880 elections highlighted to the public issues which no longer seemed "best of British".
Increase in education following 1870 Education Act resulted in greater more morals within society which made such practices seem archaic and crude.
Radical MPs supported legislation since it would allow for MPs from more modest backgrounds to compete for seats.
Cross party consensus meant there would be no problem passing this act.
No parliamentary reform during Gladstone's second ministry prior to this act.
Terms
What did it do?
Placed limits on electoral spending proportional to size of electorate in respective constituency.
Accounts on electoral spending had to be kept by parties with agents being appointed to keep tab of accounts.
Limits on the number of paid employees.
Violence, intimidation, bribery, treating, assault, impersonation etc. were all banned.
Punishments
People found guilty could face up to 1 year in jail, £200 fine, and exclusion from their constituency.
Candidates breaking rules would lose voting rights and right to sit as MP for 7 years.
Consequences
Electoral spending decreased by 75% in 1885 election.
Background of MPs didn't change much
Greater party organisation due to growing importance of public campaign as a means of attracting voters.
Primrose League
Recognised by Salisbury in 1884.
Had 500,000 members by 1887 - mainly educated middle class women targeted for having plenty of free time on their hands.
Organised social events and activities to curate positive party image and attract more members/voters.