PRCA welcomes Standards Committee sanction after MP’s “flagrant violation” of lobbying rules
The Public Relations and Communications Associations’ (PRCA) Public Affairs Board (PAB) has welcomed a decision by the Standards Committee sanctioning Conservative MP Andrew Bridgen for a breach of lobbying rules.
Andrew Bridgen MP was suspended after the cross-party Committee found he displayed a “very cavalier” attitude to rules, breaking lobbying laws “on multiple occasions and in multiple ways”.
The ruling relates to his failure to declare interests to Mere Plantations, UK-based company focused on forestry in Ghana.
The MP’s suspension was increased after he questioned the integrity of the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards, Kathyrn Stone.
PRCA PAB Chair Liam Herbert FPRCA commented:
“Once again, a member of parliament has shown disregard or ignorance for the rules governing conduct. Andrew Bridgen’s actions were a flagrant violation of lobbying rules.
“We have long been clear that Parliamentarians and Ministers must clean up their act - the public deserves better.
“We are pleased with the Committee’s ruling and hope it encourages other MPs to consider their ethical responsibilities in future.”
The PRCA PAB – which has consistently campaigned for higher parliamentary standards – will provide oral evidence to the Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee (PACAC) inquiry into lobbying later this month.
The organisation has highlighted its roadmap for lobbying reform through its 6 Point Public Confidence Plan.
