The Integrity Party is committed to fostering transparency, fairness, and accountability in politics. We seek candidates who are passionate about serving the people with integrity and a clear vision for positive change. If you wish to stand as a candidate for the Integrity Party in a UK parliamentary election, please read and adhere to the following application rules and procedures.

1. Eligibility Criteria
To be considered as a candidate for the Integrity Party in a UK parliamentary election, applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:
1.1 Age: Candidates must be at least 18 years old on the day of the election.
1.2 Citizenship: Candidates must be a British citizen, an EU national with permanent residency in the UK, or a Commonwealth citizen with indefinite leave to remain.
1.3 Voter Registration: Candidates must be registered to vote in the UK.
1.4 Party Membership: Candidates must be a current member of the Integrity Party and have held membership for at least one year before applying.
1.5 No Disqualifying Convictions: Candidates must not have been convicted of any crime that would legally disqualify them from standing for office under UK law, including serious criminal offences.
1.6 Local Connection: While candidates may stand in any constituency, they must demonstrate a genuine connection to the area they seek to represent (e.g., residency, work, or community involvement).
1.7 Commitment to the Integrity Party’s Values: Candidates must commit to upholding the party’s values of honesty, transparency, social justice, and ethical conduct.

2. Application Process
To apply for consideration as a candidate, the following steps must be completed:
2.1 Complete the Application Form: Applicants must complete the official Integrity Party Candidate Application Form. This form is available on the party’s website and must be filled out accurately and in full.
2.2 Supporting Documentation: Along with the application form, candidates must submit the following documents:
•    Proof of identity (e.g., passport, driving license)
•    Proof of UK voter registration or proof of residency (if applicable)
•    A brief biography (maximum 500 words) outlining the applicant’s qualifications, background, and reasons for wanting to stand for parliament with the Integrity Party
•    A statement of intent explaining why you wish to represent the Integrity Party and how you intend to serve your constituents
•    Two character references (e.g., from people in your local community or professional life)
•    Additional documents as required (e.g., if you have held public office before, provide relevant details).
2.3 Initial Review: The Integrity Party’s Candidate Selection Committee will review your application.
2.4 Interview: Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an interview with the Candidate Selection Committee. This interview will assess the applicant’s alignment with the party’s values, their understanding of political issues, and their readiness to serve as a Member of Parliament.
2.5 Selection: The Selection Committee will make the final decision on candidate approval based on the review of the application, interview performance, and overall fit with the Integrity Party’s objectives and ethos.

3. Candidate Responsibilities
3.1 Campaigning Ethically: Candidates must conduct their campaigns in a manner that reflects the core values of the Integrity Party, including fairness, transparency, and respect for others.
3.2 Public Engagement: Candidates are expected to actively engage with constituents, attend local events, hold public meetings, and maintain a visible presence in their constituency.
3.3 Adherence to Electoral Law: Candidates must comply with all UK electoral laws and regulations, including those set by the Electoral Commission, and must submit all required financial returns and campaign expenditure reports.
3.4 Integrity and Accountability: Candidates must be committed to serving the people honestly and to maintaining public trust. This includes being transparent about their voting records, policy stances, and campaign funding.
3.5 Participation in Party Activities: Candidates are expected to attend party conferences, policy discussions, and other key events hosted by the Integrity Party to stay informed about the party’s goals and strategies.

4. Financial Commitment
4.1 Fundraising: Candidates are expected to raise funds for their own campaigns. The Integrity Party may provide some financial assistance or fundraising guidance, but candidates must be proactive in securing funds.
4.2 Financial Reporting: Candidates must submit detailed financial reports on campaign contributions and expenditures, in accordance with UK law and the Integrity Party’s financial policies.
4.3 Campaign Expenses: All campaign materials (posters, leaflets, ads, etc.) must be approved by the party’s election management team to ensure consistency with the party’s message and values.

5. Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards
5.1 Code of Conduct: All candidates must adhere to the Integrity Party’s Code of Conduct. This includes:
•    Acting with honesty and integrity at all times
•    Avoiding any form of discrimination, harassment, or unethical behaviour
•    Promoting positive, solutions-focused campaigns
•    Treating all candidates, parties, and members of the public with respect and dignity.
5.2 Campaign Honesty: Candidates are expected to be truthful in all statements made during the campaign, avoiding false or misleading claims.

6. Candidate Training and Support
6.1 Mandatory Training: Candidates will be required to attend training sessions organised by the Integrity Party. These will cover electoral law, campaigning techniques, media relations, public speaking, and the party’s policy platform.
6.2 Campaign Resources: The Integrity Party will provide candidates with campaign resources such as digital tools, media support, and campaign materials.
6.3 Ongoing Mentorship: Candidates will receive mentorship and support from experienced party members, including advice on constituency work, effective campaigning, and maintaining public engagement.

7. Removal of Candidature
7.1 Withdrawal: Candidates who wish to withdraw from the race before the election must submit a formal written notice to the Candidate Selection Committee.
7.2 Disqualification: The Integrity Party reserves the right to remove a candidate from the approved list at any time during the election process if they fail to meet the party’s eligibility criteria or violate the Code of Conduct. This includes but is not limited to:
•    Engaging in unethical campaign practices
•    Failing to comply with party rules
•    Having a conflict of interest or any other disqualifying behaviour.

8. Appeals Process
8.1 Disputes: If a candidate disagrees with a decision made by the Candidate Selection Committee (e.g., rejection of their application or disqualification), they have the right to appeal.
8.2 Appeal Process: Appeals must be submitted in writing within 14 days of receiving the decision. The appeal will be reviewed by an independent panel, and the final decision will be communicated to the candidate within 30 days.

9. Conclusion
The Integrity Party is looking for candidates who are committed to serving the public with transparency, honesty, and dedication. If you meet the eligibility requirements and are ready to represent your community and contribute to a better future for the UK, we encourage you to apply.

For more information and to submit your application, please contact our Elections Committee at electionscommittee@integrityparty.co.uk.