Todd Stone introduces bill to ban foreign interference in B.C. politics

VICTORIA: In light of recent, serious concerns around foreign interference in politics, BC Opposition House Leader Todd Stone has introduced a private member’s bill that would strengthen B.C.’s ability to combat this dangerous threat to democracy.
“Foreign interference poses a significant threat to the integrity of elections, democratic institutions, and processes — and now, more than ever, it is crucial to safeguard our democracy and guarantee that B.C. politics remains in the hands of British Columbians,” says Stone. “There are gaps in our election laws that the NDP has not addressed for years, and it is essential these loopholes are closed and our election laws are modernized and strengthened so we can effectively fight back against any foreign influence in B.C. politics.”
The Control of Foreign Funding and Electoral Influence Act will prohibit foreign-funded individuals and organizations from making false or misleading communications for any purpose related to an election. It will also ban contributions from any foreign person, government, or political organization for any purpose related to an election, and prohibit any individual or organization from collaborating with or accepting funds from foreign entities to influence an election.
“Recent events have put a spotlight on the threat of foreign influence, and British Columbians want to ensure our elections and democratic processes are protected from that threat,” says Stone. “Given the many questions that remain unanswered and unaddressed, there must be a fair and proper review of this matter in a transparent way to maintain the public’s trust.”
This is BC United’s second attempt at protecting our elections and democracy, after proactively introducing a private member’s bill four years ago aimed at banning contributions from foreign entities for election-related purposes. The NDP never called it for debate.