Elton’s Fund-raising Under Scrutiny

Elton John’s fund-raising concert for presidential candidate Hillary Clinton has come under scrutiny because it may break U.S. election rules.

The April 9 show at New York’s Radio City Music Hall, which is reportedly swelling Clinton’s campaign fund by $1 million, may breach a 1966 law introduced to "minimise foreign intervention" in American elections, according to The Washington Times.

The penalties for infringing this legislation range from fines to prison sentences.

The paper quoted a spokesman for the Federal Election Commission saying it’s possible that the concert could contravene the act if it was ruled that Sir Elton, who has raised millions for charity, is contributing indirectly to the Clinton campaign.

The Times said the law "prohibits any foreign national from contributing, donating or spending funds in connection with any federal, state, or local election in the United States, either directly or indirectly."

However, the paper also draws attention to an exemption for any foreign national who isn’t being compensated. The flamboyant U.K. star is not believed to be receiving any money for the fund-raiser.

A spokesman for the Clinton campaign was quoted saying that Sir Elton is volunteering his time by appearing at the concert.

For any action to be taken, a complaint would have to be filed with the U.S. Federal Election Commission. Apparently no such complaint has been filed.

The show is reportedly very close to selling out, with the only tickets left costing £500 and £1,150.