Ministerial Code updated

The prime minister has updated the ministerial code to include new transparency requirements and clear principles governing the acceptance of gifts and hospitality.

The changes include nshrining the Seven Principles of Public Life directly into the Code, strengthening the powers of the PM’s Independent Adviser, new guiding principles for Ministers on when gifts and hospitality should be accepted, and new rules to align the publication of ministerial gifts and hospitality more closely with the parliamentary register.

There are also clearer standards on gifts and hospitality, with the code now specifying that Ministers have a responsibility to represent the government, engage with stakeholders and support relevant sectors of the UK economy. Ministers will be required to attend functions and events in a ministerial capacity, including those where hospitality may be offered. It is a well-established and recognised rule that ministers should not accept any gifts, hospitality or service which would, or might reasonably appear to, compromise their judgement or place them under an obligation to people or organisations that might try inappropriately to influence their work in government.

The new rules will require the Government to publish ministerial declarations of hospitality and gifts on a monthly basis, rather than quarterly at present, and to include the value of hospitality received.