Press release -
PRCA welcomes proposed lobbying ban for MPs
The Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA) Public Affairs Board has welcomed the Committee on Standards’ proposals to tighten lobbying rules for MPs.
Under the new proposals, MPs can neither initiate nor participate in approaches to parliamentarians where they stand to gain commercially. The new proposals – which include a new Code of Conduct for MPs – feature an outright ban on MPs providing paid parliamentary advice, consultancy, or strategy services.
The professional lobbying industry – represented by the Public Affairs Board – has long campaigned for such reforms to restore trust in the political system. The new proposals incorporate components of the PRCA’s 6-point Public Confidence Plan for Reform, which included the industry’s call for MPs to adhere to the Nolan Principles.
PRCA Public Affairs Chair Liam Herbert FPRCA commented:
“While these proposals are not perfect, they represent a step forward for transparency and integrity in UK politics. We are pleased to see the committee adopt our recommendations.
“The lobbying industry has made concerted efforts to improve transparency and uphold public confidence. The onus is now on MPs.
“Trust in politics has seldom been lower and we urge MPs to vote in favour of these measures to deliver the changes our political system desperately needs.”
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The Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA) is the world’s largest professional PR body.
We represent more than 35,000 PR professionals in 70 countries worldwide. With offices in London, Singapore, Dubai, and Buenos Aires, we are a global advocate for excellence in public relations.
Our mission is to create a more professional, ethical, and prosperous PR industry. We champion - and enforce - professional standards in the UK and overseas through our Professional Charter and Code of Conduct. The Code compels members to adhere to the highest standards of ethical practice.
Our Public Affairs Board represents professional practice in lobbying by campaigning for transparency through a joint register and enforcing high standards through the Public Affairs Code. The PRCA Public Affairs Register can be viewed here.
