Ministerial Standards 2024-10-24
2024-10-24
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The question addresses the need for high ministerial standards following years of scandals and rule-breaking by Conservative Ministers.
What steps is he taking to ensure high ministerial standards in government after a period marked by unethical behavior from previous ministers, including parties at Downing Street during lockdowns and granting contracts to friends?
The behaviour of Conservative Ministers shattered trust in politics. This new Government aims to restore confidence by issuing a new robust ministerial code and establishing a Modernisation Committee to drive up standards.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific timeline for issuing the updated ministerial code and concrete measures beyond stating intentions were not provided.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The question builds on the previous one, focusing on veterinary standards and asking if enshrining the ministerial code in law would ensure real consequences for breaches.
As a veterinary surgeon faces being struck off for failing to meet professional standards, does he agree that enshrining the ministerial code in law could similarly enforce accountability and consequences for Ministers who lie or break rules?
The hon. Gentleman's question is acknowledged, but no commitment is given to enshrine the ministerial code in law beyond establishing a Modernisation Committee and issuing an updated code.
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Assessment & feedback
No specific agreement or disagreement on legislating the ministerial code was provided.
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The question addresses transparency concerns regarding the Prime Minister's former chief of staff appointed as envoy, raising issues about compliance with Cabinet Office guidance and potential peerage.
Supporting the Government's aspirations for high ministerial standards, why have Ministers not published terms of reference or salary details for the new envoy role despite previous chief of staff experience? Is she correct in understanding she is at the top of the list for new peers?
Details on the former chief of staff's terms, salary, and special adviser severance will be announced in due course. It is not appropriate to comment on individual conditions.
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Assessment & feedback
No specific timeline for announcement was given and no confirmation or denial about peerage status.
Response accuracy