The Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA) Public Affairs Board has welcomed the Committee on Standards’ proposals to tighten lobbying rules for MPs.
Under the new proposals, MPs can neither initiate nor participate in approaches to parliamentarians where they stand to gain commercially. The new proposals – which include a new Code of Conduct for MPs – feature an outright ban on MPs providing paid parliamentary advice, consultancy, or strategy services.
The professional lobbying industry – represented by the Public Affairs Board – has long campaigned for such reforms to restore trust in the political system. The new proposals incorporate components of the PRCA’s 6-point Public Confidence Plan for Reform, which included the industry’s call for MPs to adhere to the Nolan Principles.
PRCA Public Affairs Chair Liam Herbert FPRCA commented:
“While these proposals are not perfect, they represent a step forward for transparency and integrity in UK politics. We are pleased to see the committee adopt our recommendations.
“The lobbying industry has made concerted efforts to improve transparency and uphold public confidence. The onus is now on MPs.
“Trust in politics has seldom been lower and we urge MPs to vote in favour of these measures to deliver the changes our political system desperately needs.”
PRCA welcomes proposed lobbying ban for MPs
