Following today’s announcement that the Prime Minister, Theresa May, would be seeking a general election on 8 June, ACEVO chief executive Vicky Browning said:
“ACEVO will be writing to all major parties to outline a three-tier test of any parties’ commitment to the sector.
- The next Government must commit to meaningful engagement with charities throughout the process of exiting the European Union.
- Significant reform of part two of the Lobbying Act as recommended by Lord Hodgson.
- To ensure that public service contracts deliver social value as well as economic value, including a greater commitment to prevention programmes.
“At this critical moment in the national debate now is not the time for charities to be silent. Charity leaders need to take courage from their convictions and speak out on behalf of their beneficiaries.
“A General Election underlines the critical role of the independent political perspectives that charities bring to bear. A timid sector does not serve its beneficiaries or causes – that alone should give leaders the confidence to speak frankly.”
