Source · Select Committees · Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee
Recommendation 22
22
Not Addressed
The position of the Prime Minister in relation to their compliance with the Ministerial Code...
Conclusion
The position of the Prime Minister in relation to their compliance with the Ministerial Code is a complex one. Whilst the Independent Adviser can initiate investigations into any suspected breach of the Code and should be able to issue private advice on appropriate sanction, it is ultimately for the Prime Minister to decide the response to any breach of the Code they may have made. (Paragraph 99) Conclusion
Government Response Summary
The government discusses the role of the Commissioner and other ethics watchdogs, and states that Ministers’ nominated candidates for these roles should require the endorsement of the relevant Select Committee, failing to address the conclusion regarding the Prime Minister's compliance with the Ministerial Code.
Government Response
Not Addressed
HM Government
Not Addressed
We have seen the extensive scope for Ministerial discretion in the public appointments process and that, in addition to the self-restraint of Ministers, the role of the Commissioner has been vital in ensuring that the principles in Governance Code have been adhered to. The Chairs of the other ethics watchdogs play a similar role in safeguarding the integrity of public life. The independence required for these roles is analogous to that of the Chair of the Office of Budget Responsibility and should be treated as such. Given this, Ministers’ nominated candidates for these roles should require the endorsement of the relevant Select Committee. Candidates that are not endorsed by the relevant Select Committee for these posts should not be appointed. Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee, Paragraph 66 Too often, the Government has appeared to approach the pre-appointments process as a tick box exercise rather than an important component in the public appointments process. The Committee’s patience in this respect is not limitless. We are aware that this frustration is shared by other Select Committees. When making appointments that require a pre- appointment hearing, sufficient time must be allowed for this stage to be completed. Committee on Standards in Public Life,