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Download AudioJustice Minister Kiritapu Allan says transparency of political donations is fundamental to democracy.
The Electoral Amendment Bill – which had its first reading in parliament this week – lowers the level at which the names of donors must be reported from $15,000 to $5000.
The bill also closes a loophole used by parties to channel large donations through shadow entities to keep their source secret.
“What’s really important with political donations is that you as a voter, you understand who is buttering my bread so if someone is giving me or my political party large sums of donations, I think it is fair to think that may equate to some form of influence,” Ms Allen says.
She expects the bill to be passed this year – well ahead of the next year’s election.
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