Economic Activity of Public Bodies (Overseas Matters) Bill (Fifth sitting)

Luke Evans Excerpts

Committee stage
Tuesday 12th September 2023 Public Bill Committees

[Felicity Buchan]

I will go into detail on it. Give me one minute and I will go through all those scenarios.

[Dr Luke Evans (Bosworth) (Con)]

As Members of Parliament, we are always having to declare our interests if we think there is going to be a conflict. I asked a question yesterday about veterans’ health. I am the honorary president of the Royal British Legion. When discussing such topics, particularly when in front of the media, we know exactly where there could be a conflict of interest and therefore make the determination that it should be declared. We should therefore allow the legislation to stay as it is, because the distinction is clear between speaking on behalf of a public body and speaking as an individual elected to represent a point of view.

[Felicity Buchan]

I agree. That is the distinction between representing a public body and speaking as an individual, even if someone is an elected councillor.