European Parliamentary elections are fast approaching.
Some local groups and organisations will want to get involved and we welcome people engaging in democracy in this way.
Your readers should be aware that if they plan to campaign for or against a political party, policy or candidate,
without themselves being a candidate or fielding a candidate, this makes them what is known as a 'third party'.
There are some rules about what a 'third party' can do, particularly how much money can be spent on such work during the pre-election period, which began on February 5 and ends on polling day, June 4, 2009.
Those planning to spend more than £10,000 in England will need to register with the Electoral Commission. We've published guidance, including how much more can be spent once registered and where donations to help campaigning can be accepted from.
To find out more please contact the Electoral Commission for advice or read our guidance for third parties on our website www.electoral commission.org.uk
LISA KLEIN
Director of party and election finance
Electoral Commission Trevelyan House Great Peter Street
London SW1P 2HW
