In the UK, politicians can knowingly deceive the public with zero legal consequences. We're campaigning for a law to change that.

Why We Need This Law

Currently, politicians and candidates can make false claims about verifiable facts—inventing statistics, claiming meetings that never happened, or making promises they never intend to keep—without any legal accountability. Public trust has collapsed: only 11% of people trust politicians to tell the truth (IPSOS MORI). We've seen how political lying and disinformation can undermine democracy.

The Truth in Politics law would make it an offence for politicians or candidates to knowingly and materially deceive the public about verifiable facts. It would target only deliberate factual falsehoods (not opinions, satire, or honest mistakes), require proof of intent and demonstrable public harm, and use proportionate penalties: public corrections, fines, or disqualification. Safeguards against vexatious complaints would protect free speech while ensuring accountability.

For example: A candidate who falsely claims crime has doubled in their area when official data shows a decrease could be required to publicly correct the statement. We already have laws preventing lying to consumers, investors, and in court—politics should be no different.

Thanks to years of campaigning by Compassion in Politics, this law is now on track to be introduced in Wales, supported by Adam Price MS, Jane Dodds MS, and constitutional barrister Dr Sam Fowles. Wales is leading. Now Westminster must follow.

This law would protect democracy by stopping those who lie to gain power, restore trust (72% of voters support it), defend honest politicians from those willing to deceive, and bring politics in line with other professions where lying has consequences.

How You Can Help

Sign the petition: Join thousands calling for an end to political deception.

Sign the Petition

Write to your MP: Ask your MP to support the Truth in Politics law.

Lawyers and academics: Add your name to our expert legal statement. Email us

Donate: Your contribution powers this campaign for honesty in public life. Donate now

"Lying in politics works. It shouldn't. But right now, the rewards for deception outweigh the risks. That has to change."

Jennifer Nadel, Co-Founder, Compassion in Politics