Independent Adviser on Ministers’ Interests

Lord Stoneham of Droxford Excerpts

Thursday 16th June 2022 Lords Chamber

[Lord True (Con)]

My Lords, on the ongoing investigations, I understand that appropriate steps will be taken to ensure that any work being undertaken by the independent adviser continues and is completed. Obviously, one regrets the resignation of anybody who has given such distinguished public service as the noble Lord, Lord Geidt, but I do not agree with the noble Baroness’s interpretation of it.

On her question about what will happen now, the noble Lord, Lord Geidt, raised a number of issues about the role of the independent adviser, as indeed did PACAC in its session earlier this week. As was said this morning, it is right to consider those carefully and take time to reflect on them before moving forward. However, this role has been important in public life.

[Lord Stoneham of Droxford (LD)]

If a friend of the Minister’s approached him for advice on applying for the job of the noble Lord, Lord Geidt, what advice would he give him or her?

[Lord True (Con)]

My Lords, it would depend on who the person was and whether they were qualified to perform the important role of an independent adviser.