The aim of amendment No. 1 is to exclude from the definition of "direct marketing" any direct mailing activities carried out in the course of political activities by political parties or their members or by candidates for, or holders of, elective political office. The activities of a statutory body in this field are also covered by the exemption, for example, mailing by the Referendum Commission in advance of a referendum. The amendment is in keeping with other provisions already included in the Bill which recognise the importance of elections, political parties and political activity. Political activity and elections are essential foundations of our democratic system, and the citizen who has a right to vote also has a responsibility and duty to inform himself or herself about the aims and policies of the candidates putting themselves forward for election.