Reporting Ministerial Gifts and Hospitality

Jim Shannon Excerpts

Monday 14th October 2024 Commons Chamber

[Ellie Reeves]

Is it any wonder, given the sort of things that went on over the past 14 years? The former Prime Minister Boris Johnson had to apologise to the Commons for failing to declare more than £50,000 in outside income. There was also that £15,000 trip to a luxury villa on Mustique. No wonder they could not keep their ethics advisers in place when that sort of behaviour was going on at the heart of Government.

[Jim Shannon (Strangford) (DUP)]

There is a duty on all Members and Ministers to ensure transparency regarding gifts received. Does the Minister agree that more work needs to be done to clarify the rules around the declaration of hospitality and gifts to ensure that the rules are equal and fair for all, regardless of parliamentary status?

[Ellie Reeves]

I thank the hon. Member for his helpful contribution. That is exactly what we seek to do through these changes.