PRCA Statement on Government Compliance and Conflict of Interest Concerns

We have issued the following statement in response to recent reports highlighting potential conflicts of interest within Government.

The PRCA Head of Public Affairs, Louise Whatham, said:

“These reports about potential conflicts of interest raise serious concerns. Is it any wonder that public trust in lobbying remains so low when the Government itself has shown a lack of compliance and enforcement? As the UK’s largest trade association for consultant lobbyists, we uphold a robust Code of Conduct that requires members to avoid any real or perceived conflicts of interest. We operate an independent complaints process to maintain these standards.

The Government must get its own house in order, enforce its Code for Special Advisers rigorously, and show leadership on integrity and transparency. Only then can we begin to rebuild public confidence in the vital role that ethical and transparent lobbying plays in our democracy.”