Code of Conduct for Special Advisers 2020-02-27
2020-02-27
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Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Discussion on the employment of Andrew Sabisky by Dominic Cummings, who has promoted eugenics views.
The code of conduct for special advisers states that they must not involve themselves in controversy. Given that Mr Sabisky's views are offensive and promoting racism, how is it acceptable to hire him?
There is little to add to what the Prime Minister said on this matter yesterday, which is that those views of Mr Sabisky have no place in this Government. Mr Sabisky has left the employment of the Government, and I do not think there is more to be said on the matter other than that they are not my views either.
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Q2
Direct Answer
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Follow-up on Owen Thompson's question regarding the hiring and views of Andrew Sabisky.
Given that Mr Sabisky sat in official meetings with the Prime Minister and defence staff, isn't it a problem for national security when someone holding such extreme views is employed within the Government?
Does the Labour party honestly expect me to say from this Dispatch Box that the vetting system does not work? That would be a breach of national security, and I am not going to do any such thing. The hon. Gentleman ought to ask better questions.
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Q3
Direct Answer
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Suggestion for a system to scrutinize special advisers before their appointment.
Would it not be wise to have pre-appointment scrutiny of special advisers by making candidates appear before a Select Committee before being appointed, similar to other appointments?
As I have already said in my opening answer, the code of conduct is very clear about what is required, and the model contract likewise. The appointment procedure for special advisers is found in those documents, and the fact is that Ministers take decisions. The Prime Minister takes decisions about who is to be appointed to his team, which is as it should be—Ministers decide and advisers advise. Although I welcome my hon. Friend's considered point on the processes that could be added, I think the current processes are adequate.
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Q4
Direct Answer
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Inquiry into the legality of Andrew Sabisky's appointment.
Given that all appointments of special advisers require the prior written approval of the Prime Minister, did the Prime Minister give such approval for Mr Sabisky's appointment?
That is not the right question, because Mr Sabisky was a contractor.
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