By Robert Halfon MP
The Phil Woolas Case - whilst controversial - will have profound implications for the conduct of future elections. Candidates will have to think twice before putting out deliberate misinformation.
Throughout the last election, the Labour Party put out numerous leaflets which were designed to scare the wits out of pensioners, mothers and cancer sufferers. In Harlow - as in other marginal constituencies - leaflets/letters were sent out suggesting that Tories would cut cancer treatment, close down Sure Start Centres, and take away free bus passes and the winter fuel allowances for pensioners.
Despite denials from Mr Cameron during the debates - and the embarrassment of Gordon Brown - millions of these kinds of leaflets were still given to voters all around the country. Some of them were even endorsed by 'celebrities' and 'soap stars', with the aim of giving them an additional air of authenticity.
Election after election, it has been far too easy for Labour to frighten the most vulnerable in our society. Mr Woolas's actions were no worse than what his party has been doing for many years. His case will at least make those who peddle falsehoods during election campaigns think twice before doing it again.
