David Cameron has today responded in written form to my WebCameron question on the costs of being a candidate. Thanks to all who voted.
"You're right in saying my ambition is for our Party to be representative of modern Britain. We cannot be so without ensuring that our candidates include men and women not just from the public and voluntary sectors but from all over Britain. And while we have made progress, there is much to do - not just for Parliamentary candidates but in choosing council candidates and increasing our membership and supporter base.
I've spoke to Francis about your three suggestions to help attract a wider range of candidates.
First, he has agreed that the fee for the Parliamentary Assessment Board, where there are compelling cases, can be reduced on a case by case basis. In fact this is something that has happened in the past.
Second, we'll give some serious thought to your emergency access fund. I like the idea. If possible we should do it. I'm not promising anything immediate, but I'll see what we can do.
Third, instead of a ‘Candidate's Protector', which seems a little bureaucratic, we already have in place ‘MP Mentors' who guide and counsel candidates. I'll make sure John Maples gets Mentors to monitor financial demands placed on candidates.
Campaign Directors are in place working on Target Seats. They are the best placed people to advise candidates and associations on how time and money should be prioritised."
I'm not convinced that aspiring candidates would feel inclined to ask for or accept individual subsidies for their PABs, but David's answer shows that the issue is at least being thought about. ConservativeHome will be following these points up with Francis Maude.
Deputy Editor
