PRCA launches second phase consultation on proposed Code for Professional Lobbying

24 March 2025

The Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA) has launched the second phase of its consultation on the revised Public Affairs Code, now proposed to be renamed the Code for Professional Lobbying. The consultation opens today Monday, 24^th March 2025, and will run for five weeks, concluding on Monday, 28^th April 2025.

This marks a central stage in the PRCA’s review of its Public Affairs Code, ensuring that it is clear, relevant, and fit for purpose. The process began with a Call for Evidence, launched on 9^th December 2024, which closed on 17^th January 2025. The insights gathered in this initial phase have helped shape the direction of the proposed new Code, with key refinements aimed at improving clarity and applicability.

The proposed Code for Professional Lobbying is intended to replace the existing Public Affairs Code, the text of which can be read here: https://www.prca.global/sites/...

Why a new Code?

The PRCA believes that a revised Code is necessary because:

The existing Public Affairs Code contains unnecessary duplications of provisions covered by the revised PRCA Code of Conduct and other legal requirements.
Members, the public, and external organisations have raised concerns that parts of the current Code are unclear and difficult to apply in practice.
The Code is linked to outdated disciplinary procedures, which were replaced in July 2024 with a new Complaints Procedure.

The consultation will specifically address concerns raised about the employment of Peers in the sector. While the current Public Affairs Code already prohibits MPs and Peers from undertaking lobbying activities, the current consultation includes two options designed to strengthen these provisions.

A clearer and more effective Code

The Code for Professional Lobbying will be a shorter, more concise, and easier-to-understand document. The proposed new Code will set out stronger ethical and professional standards, reinforcing the PRCA’s commitment to upholding integrity within the industry.

The PRCA Standards Committee, in collaboration with the Public Affairs Board (PAB), is overseeing this project. Following the consultation, the final version of the Code for Professional Lobbying is expected to come into force by July 2025. The PRCA will provide training and support to members to ensure they fully understand their obligations under the revised Code.

Have your say

The consultation is open to all interested parties, not just PRCA members. The PRCA encourages all stakeholders in the public affairs industry to contribute their views and help shape the future of ethical lobbying practices.

To participate in the consultation, please visit: https://us7.list-manage.com/survey?u=b37a423563bdf12edeff184c2&id=24f3fb5dc5&e=*|UNIQID|*

The PRCA Standards Committee invites all interested parties to a virtual roundtable discussion on the Code for Professional Lobbying. This session will provide an overview of the proposed updates, including key refinements, amendments, and the reasoning behind these changes. Register now: https://www.prca.global/events/roundtable-discussion-code-professional-lobbying