BASINGSTOKE Labour's parliamentary candidate for the next general election has set up a CrowdFunder to run his campaign in the area.

Luke Murphy has set up the fundraiser, with a target of £3,000, to 'urgently boost' his campaign fund as the election 'could be just around the corner'.

The candidate, who previously served as a political advisor for members of the shadow cabinet during Ed Miliband's leadership, was selected as the party's candidate in a hustings meeting held on February 20, following David Lawrence's resignation.

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Basingstoke Gazette: Luke Murphy, Basingstoke Labour candidate

Mr Murphy told the Gazette: "I want to run the best campaign possible, to ensure as many people locally hear about our plans for a better future for Basingstoke.

"We've got plans to get the NHS back on its feet with a local doctor and dentist when people need it, to breathe life into our town centre, and ensure we provide the best education and childcare for our children.

"I want to ensure I have the strongest campaign possible, so I can invest in speaking to as many people as possible.

"I've asked friends, family, and local supporters to help me do that and that's what this Crowdfunder is all about.

"People across Basingstoke are telling me that it's time for change and I want to make sure Labour wins here so we can deliver it and secure a better future for our area."

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The practice of Crowdfunding for political campaigns has become increasingly common, with the Crowdfunder website calling itself the 'home of political crowdfunding as the country votes in 2024'.

Mr Murphy has raised £2,110 out of his goal, from 28 supporters, with a private donor making an 'offer of matched funding' if he raises at least £4,000.

The Electoral Commission regulates political donations and election spending, it says that candidates must collect enough information from donors to check that their money can be accepted. 

In a statement, it said: "When Crowdfunding, you must only accept donations from a permissible source.

"A donation is money, goods, property, or services over a certain value. This value is £50 for candidates, and £500 for political parties and non-party campaigners."