Political fund Q&As

Why does Prospect have to ballot members every ten years on the retention of it Political Fund?

The UK government has, over a number of years, introduced increasingly restrictive legislation on the activities of trade unions. Under the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act, we are required to hold a Review Ballot of members at least every ten years in order to retain Prospect’s political fund.

Does Prospect donate to, sponsor or support any political party?

No. Prospect is fiercely politically independent. We are not affiliated to any political party and we do not donate to or support any political party or politician. We see it as our job to campaign and lobby without fear or favour, across the political spectrum, on behalf of members on workplace and policy issues that affect them.

Why is the Political Fund important?

Over a number of years, the UK government has introduced increasingly restrictive trade union legislation, including the definition of what kind of trade union expenditure and activity may be considered as “political”.

The retention of a Political Fund helps protect us from potential legal challenge and even more restrictive legislation by allowing us to continue our campaigning and lobbying work on issues important to member such as:

Employment rights and the law

The need for high quality and properly funded public services

Pensions and pay and the cost of living crisis facing all of our members

Climate change and the need for us to deliver a just transition to a more sustainable and fairer future

Government policy in areas such as defence, energy, broadcasting, and entertainment.

Do I have to contribute to the Political Fund?

No. All new members decide whether to “opt in” to pay into the Political Fund. All members paying into the Political Fund can opt out at any stage.

For members who have opted in or are paying into the Political Fund, how much is paid into the Political Fund?

Five pence per month is paid into the Fund.

Why should I vote yes if I don’t intend to pay?

Paying into the fund is optional, but by voting yes, you give yourself and others a choice. Retaining the Fund protects Prospect’s ability to campaign on behalf of all of our members now and in the future.