← Back to House of Commons Debates
Lobbying of Government Committee
14 April 2021
Lead MP
Rachel Reeves
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
Parliamentary ProcedureStandards & Ethics
Other Contributors: 46
At a Glance
Rachel Reeves raised concerns about lobbying of government committee in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
Moves for a Select Committee to investigate inappropriate lobbying of Ministers, conflicts of interest rules, Greensill Capital's commercial relationship with the Government, and whether existing transparency and accountability procedures are robust. The proposed committee would have extensive powers to gather evidence and make public reports.
Rachel Reeves
Lab
Leeds West and Pudsey
Raises concerns about the conduct of former Prime Minister David Cameron, highlighting his lobbying activities post-Prime Ministership. Argues that current Government Ministers are also involved in inappropriate lobbying practices. Proposes a broader inquiry into lobbying rather than just focusing on Greensill Capital's supply chain finance. Criticises the composition and scope of an existing Government inquiry led by Nigel Boardman.
Brendan O'Hara
SNP
Argyll, Bute and South Lochaber
Intervenes to clarify that there is no equivalence between David Cameron's actions and those of Scottish Minister Fergus Ewing. Suggests that the latter’s meeting with Lex Greensill was above board.
Bernard Jenkin
Con
Harwich and North Essex
Questions the need for a new Select Committee, suggesting existing ones could address the issue. Asks why the Labour Party did not consult other MPs or committees on this motion. Emphasises the importance of bipartisan approaches to addressing wider issues.
Asks about the nomination process for the proposed Select Committee members, expressing doubt that it would be a fair and impartial selection.
The hon. Member for Preseli Pembrokeshire raised the issue of leadership, questioning the Scottish Government's stance and drawing attention to the situation in Wales where there has been a Welsh Government for 22 years without a lobbying register. He pointed out that the Advisory Committee on Business Appointments recently criticised the former Labour First Minister regarding an appointment to GFG.
Chloe Smith
Con
Norwich East
Welcomed the opportunity to contribute virtually. Tributed His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh for his service and high standards. Emphasised the Government's efforts during the pandemic, praising civil servants under pressure. Highlighted UK’s ranking in Transparency International’s 2020 index above France and Ireland, noting existing legislation like the lobbying Act introduced a register of consultant lobbyists and requirement to declare work representing third parties. Discussed ongoing post-legislative scrutiny on transparency measures, questioning the need for an additional Select Committee proposed by the opposition motion. Stressed the Government's commitment to integrity in public life with established frameworks overseeing use of public money and positions, and ethical standards embodied in principles of public life. Mentioned recent reviews including a wide-ranging inquiry into Greensill Capital’s role in government and improvements to business appointment rules. Criticised Labour for wanting to repeal transparency laws while calling for tighter controls earlier, urging them to find common ground on probity.
Brendan O'Hara
SNP
Argyll, Bute and South Lochaber
Mr O'Hara criticised the relationship between politics, government, business and money. He noted that David Cameron failed to deliver on his promise of preventing ex-ministers from using their contacts for personal gain, highlighting Lex Greensill's influence and Cameron’s lobbying efforts during the pandemic. Mr O'Hara also raised concerns about civil servants working with companies like Greensill Capital while still employed by the government, arguing that such arrangements should be transparent and subject to conflict of interest policies.
Mr Penrose asked a parliamentary question regarding the fairness of the procurement process for PPE contracts, suggesting that due diligence standards were applied equally. Mr O'Hara was invited to reconsider his position on this issue.
Jamie Stone
Lib Dem
Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross
Mr Stone suggested that establishing an inquiry could help restore public trust in elected representatives by addressing the damaging effects of cronyism on democracy.
Chris Bryant
Lab
Rhondda and Ogmore
Mr Bryant emphasised the importance of an inquiry having proper powers, such as subpoena rights, to ensure effective investigations can take place without fear of prosecution for those providing evidence.
Mr Brown proposed that any investigation should also look at other activities indicative of cronyism, including Brexit contracts and appointments to external bodies and regulators.
In her intervention, Ms Jackie Doyle-Price agreed with Mr Wragg's point and emphasised that the issue revolves around principles such as the Nolan principles, which should be viewed as a lifelong code of conduct to avoid similar issues in the future.
Bernard Jenkin
Con
Harwich and North Essex
Mr Bernard Jenkin highlighted the 2017 Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee report which recommended changes to the ministerial code and civil service rules regarding conflicts of interest. He noted that these conversations often do not take place in the current atmosphere, raising concerns about proper handling of such issues.
Chris Bryant
Lab
Rhondda and Ogmore
Mr Chris Bryant urged Mr Jenkin's committee to work closely with his own Committee on Standards as they review the code of conduct for MPs. He stressed that these issues could bring disrepute upon the House, underlining the need for a robust code applicable even after one leaves public office.
Karl Turner
Lab
Kingston upon Hull East
Mr Karl Turner criticised recent events as an absolute disgrace and scandal highlighting cronyism within the Conservative party. He called for a full parliamentary inquiry with powers to probe deeper into these matters instead of relying on internal reviews which may lack impartiality.
Mr John Penrose expressed his support for Mr Wragg's committee but also outlined several recommendations for improving the lobbying Act, including better disclosure practices and capturing more people in those disclosures. He proposed immediate improvements to transparency measures and suggested empowering the prime ministerial adviser on special interests to launch independent investigations.
Ian Lavery
Lab
Blyth and Ashington
Mr Lavery criticised the Government for allowing elites to gain undue influence through murky connections made at public schools and elite social clubs. He contrasted this with key workers who have sacrificed during the pandemic, only to see their taxes spent on contracts given to dubious companies without competitive tendering.
Mr Edwards discussed the relationship between politics and big money, warning that any politician should be wary of financial incentives or hospitality offered by providers. He supported a Labour motion and called for spending caps on political parties to reduce election costs and create a more level playing field.
Mr Merriman defended the Select Committee process, highlighting its ability to group together for scrutiny of Government Departments. He also expressed loyalty towards former Prime Minister David Cameron, praising him as an inspired leader who modernised their party and worked across divides.
Claire Coutinho
Con
East Surrey
Welcomes the independent inquiry and criticises the opposition for attempting to prejudge an ongoing inquiry. Points out Labour's past allegations regarding public appointments under their tenure and questions their motives in pushing for a new committee now. Accuses the Opposition of smear tactics towards individuals involved in procurement during the pandemic without waiting for facts.
Sarah Olney
Lib Dem
Richmond Park
Raises concerns about the lack of rules and standards in political life, citing examples like David Cameron's lobbying after passing an anti-lobbying bill. Argues that the absence of robust systems to enforce rules undermines checks on power. Supports Labour’s call for a Select Committee to investigate Greensill’s influence and suggests ways to improve current lobbying regulations.
Describes an instance where Somerset County Council lobbied the Government successfully, but when four district councils proposed an alternative plan with widespread support, they faced resistance from the Secretary of State. Criticises the method used by the Secretary of State to gauge local support and warns that he may use legal means to stop a planned referendum. Calls for fair democratic processes in decision-making.
It is a privilege to speak in this debate. The Chairman of the Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee has said that his Select Committee will do no favours for Whips or the Government, as it is robust and beyond reproach. My hon. Friend the Member for Weston-super-Mare raised three pertinent questions regarding this issue. We should welcome the inquiry proposed by the Minister. If Members are unhappy with the inquiry, they can go through existing Select Committees that have the powers to investigate these serious concerns.
Richard Burgon
Lab
Leeds East
The scandal of David Cameron lobbying for his new boss has captured headlines rightly. The whole system is rigged in favour of the super-rich, and the Tory party serves as their vehicle. During the pandemic, while there are 37p benefit increases and wage cuts for public sector workers, some have had a very good pandemic indeed with vast sums handed over to Serco and others connected to top Tories getting covid contracts more likely than those without such connections. There's also the Housing Minister acting unlawfully in a £1 billion property deal that helped developers avoid local council charges; Tory MPs raking in small fortunes on top of their salary through consultancy work; one in three UK billionaires bankrolling the Conservative party since 2005, and tens of billions of pounds in corporate giveaways for the rich from the Conservatives.
Labour Members have served or evangelised a Labour leader who exempted Bernie Ecclestone’s Formula 1 from a tobacco advertising ban after a donation, and presided over an unlawfully antisemitic party. The Government are acting on legitimate questions and concerns, commissioning the independent Boardman review to thoroughly investigate issues around Greensill. They have been clear that either Greensill’s requests were turned down or no Ministers were involved in gaining access to coronavirus support loans. It is entirely right for them to be transparent and accountable while getting on with supporting people and businesses through a global pandemic.
Some contributions made from afar seem misjudged and could be seen as party political posturing rather than addressing systemic issues. The current setup in COVID times is unusual, with some Members contributing remotely. Contributions from the Opposition have been unhelpful and do not solve problems highlighted. Perspective and adult tone were shown by speakers such as Craig Williams and John Penrose, who also noted that concerns are being independently investigated. Transparency should be maintained without barriers to conversations with various groups, including businesses, to better inform MPs.
The debate makes a mockery of democracy due to the revolving door of sleaze in government dealings. Examples include Health Secretary awarding multimillion-pound contract to former neighbour without formal tender process, Housing Secretary reversing local planning decision for Tory donor saving £45 million, and Prime Minister's former lover receiving taxpayers' money while he was Mayor of London. Former PM David Cameron knew the risks but still engaged in lobbying for Greensill Capital, helping Cabinet members commit possible breaches of ministerial code. A Parliament-led cross-party inquiry with power to compel witnesses is needed to restore integrity to democracy and end corporate influence.
Lee Rowley
Con
North East Derbyshire
Welcomed the Government's approach to addressing issues constructively and criticised Labour Members for not adhering to their motion. Emphasised that due process should be followed, and business community engagement is vital but must address problems appropriately.
Chris Clarkson
Con
Epping Forest
Welcomed the review into Greensill Capital and its links to former Prime Minister, endorsing Nigel Boardman's appointment. Criticised Opposition proposals as politically motivated and not genuinely aimed at improving standards in public life.
Catherine West
Lab
Hornsey and Friern Barnet
Critiqued the Government for questionable practices, including healthcare privatisation and cronyism. Emphasised the need for an anti-corruption commissioner and integrity commission to address the 'stench of sleaze' surrounding Greensill Capital.
Thurrock
I am concerned about the Greensill affair but disappointed by Labour Members' reaction, as it reflects poorly on everyone in this place. We are working to address concerns raised through our structures and will be inviting ACOBA's chairman for tomorrow’s debate.
Ruth Jones
Lab
Newport West
The Greensill scandal is just the tip of the iceberg regarding cronyism in the Conservative party. We need a full, transparent inquiry rather than the current Government-led investigation that looks like a cover-up. Hundreds of millions of pounds were put at risk, and workers deserve answers.
Steve Double
Con
St Austell and Newquay
I welcome the Government's decision to initiate an independent inquiry into the Greensill affair. The Opposition is playing politics by seeking a duplicate Committee; our system of government is among the most open and transparent in the world, and we should be proud of that.
Bob Seely
Con
Isle of Wight
Agrees with his colleagues and emphasises the lack of effective lobbying laws, highlighting issues with foreign influence and corruption. He mentions specific examples such as BT's relationship with Huawei and Lord Barker’s work for Putin’s loyal oligarch Oleg Deripaska, demonstrating the weakness in current UK lobbying regulations.
Shaun Bailey
Con
Birmingham Hodge Hill
Responds to Labour's motion by questioning their integrity given the issues within Sandwell Council. He discusses the need for scrutiny and highlights mechanisms already available, such as Committees like Public Accounts Committee.
Olivia Blake
Lab
Sheffield Hallam
Expresses concern over value for money, conflicts of interest, and misuse of public funds. Supports Labour's amendment to the 2014 lobbying Act and argues that transparency is necessary to uphold standards in public life.
Andrew Bowie
Con
West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine
Critiques the Opposition for their stance on lobbying laws, highlighting hypocrisy among Labour Members who previously called for reforms but now oppose them. Emphasises the need for transparency in political interactions.
Jamie Stone
Lib Dem
Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross
The Liberal Democrats support increased training for those involved in lobbying regulations. They also call for local representation in public appointments to ensure that decision-making reflects the knowledge of local areas. The speaker highlights a case in north Scotland where non-local entities are hindering community initiatives, emphasising the importance of restoring faith in democracy.
Kate Osborne
Lab
Jarrow and Gateshead East
The Labour Party demands full transparency regarding the Greensill scandal, including parliamentary scrutiny for involved Ministers. They criticise conflict of interests within the review process and call for a Parliament-led inquiry to address systemic cronyism in Government procurement during the pandemic.
The speaker condemns the systematic corruption at the heart of Government, highlighting how private companies with ties to Ministers have profited from unscrutinised contracts during the pandemic. She calls for a thorough, transparent investigation into these practices and criticises the current review process as insufficient.
Justin Madders
Lab
Ellesmere Port and Bromborough
Mr Madders argued against the Government's handling of the Greensill Capital scandal, pointing out that the company was allowed to operate as a payday lender for NHS employees. He urged Ministers to remember their responsibility not just for public funds but also for maintaining the reputations of Departments they oversee.
Rachel Hopkins
Lab
Luton South and South Bedfordshire
Ms Hopkins defined cronyism as a situation where jobs are given to friends rather than independent people with necessary skills. She criticised the Government for rushing through housing developments to help Tory donors and appointing peers without proper process, highlighting the Greensill Capital scandal as an example of public funds being misused due to special relationships.
Anneliese Dodds
Lab Co-op
Oxford East
The speaker argues that the culture of accountability and transparency is lacking within successive Conservative-led Governments, leading to unethical behaviour. She highlights specific instances of cronyism involving Lex Greensill and former Prime Minister David Cameron, questioning the Chancellor's role in overseeing public money distribution. The speech also mentions cases like Jessica, an excluded self-employed individual who struggled during the pandemic due to inadequate support schemes.
William Wragg
Con
Hazel Grove
During the intervention, William Wragg questioned whether Anneliese Dodds' call for independent scrutiny was undermined by the motion's proposal that Committee members be nominated by party Whips, thereby lacking true independence.
Julia Lopez
Con
Hornchurch and Upminster
The MP thanked all right hon. and hon. Members for their contributions on the issue of propriety and transparency in government spending and procurement. She highlighted the care with which taxpayers' money is spent, stating that the systems and structures must serve the public interest and not be exploited for narrow private interests. The existing framework brought in since 2010 has largely been effective but has faced challenges due to the pandemic. She emphasised that the scrutiny work had begun long ago and assured MPs that improvements were being made without waiting for an opposition motion. Lopez also addressed specific questions about Greensill Capital, procurement processes, and the VIP lane, providing assurances on these issues and clarifying the measures taken by the Government.
I will now suspend the House for three minutes in order to enable the necessary arrangements to be made for the next debate.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy
About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.