Introduction

Purpose

The purpose of this survey is to gather evidence about the impact of the Lobbying Act on UK civil society at the 2017 General Election. The results of the survey will feed into a report, which will be published by the Commission for Civil Society and Democratic Engagement. Your feedback is essential to ensure that evidence from a broad range of civil society organisations is captured.

Background

The survey is being conducted by the Commission on Civil Society and Democratic Engagement. The Commission was established in 2013 following concerns that the Lobbying Bill would have a detrimental effect on civil society. It is supported by over 150 charities and campaign groups, and is chaired by Lord Harries of Pentregarth, the former Bishop of Oxford.

The Commission has held several nationwide consultations and evidence gathering sessions on the Lobbying Act, and has published four influential reports. A similar survey was conducted at the 2015 election, which provided valuable evidence and fed into a Government commissioned review that recommended that the Act should be overhauled.

Who should submit evidence?

The survey is open to all civil society organisations that undertake campaigning activity in the UK. We would appreciate it if only one person per organisation submits evidence and that you respond on behalf of your organisation.

Will my responses be anonymous?

You can choose whether you would like your responses to be anonymous or not. If you would like your responses to be anonymous, simply tick the relevant option at the end of the survey. 

Deadline

The deadline for submitting responses is Friday 18 August.

Time and resources required

The survey should take 20-30 minutes to complete.

There are 15 questions, across 5 sections:
1. About you
2. About your organisation
3. Advice and guidance on the Lobbying Act
4. Retrospective application of the Lobbying Act
5. Your experience of campaigning at the 2017 General Election
6. Resources used complying with the Lobbying Act
7. Final section: anonymity and additional feedback

The majority of questions are multiple choice. There is also space for you to share any further reflections that you think will be useful for the Commission to hear.

You will be able to save your survey response and return to it if needed.

If you have any questions, please email Liz Hutchins, at civilsocietycommission@gmail.com

Thank you for taking the time to share your views and experiences with the Commission.
 

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