Those potential PPERA offences: the penalties

Schedule 20 to PPERA lays down the penalties for offences relating to party donations: it’s a handy read-across guide.

In respect of each of the offences set out in my post yesterday, the maximum penalties are:

– on summary conviction (i.e. if the case is accepted by the Magistrates’ Court): statutory maximum fine (£5000) or 6 months;

– on indictment (i.e. if for some reason, such as the rarity of high profile of the case, or because the magistrates think their sentencing powers are insufficient given the seriousness of the alleged offence, the magistrates decide the case has to be sent up to a judge and jury in the Crown Court): unlimited fine or 1 year.