Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, whether her Department seeks references for candidates appointed to public positions which fall under the remit of the Commissioner for Public Appointments.

Candidates that reach interview stage for public appointments are asked to provide referees which are followed up by the Department.

In line with the Governance Code on Public Appointments, candidates are also asked to declare relevant interests which are discussed at interview stage.

The Advisory Assessment Panel must satisfy itself that all candidates for appointment can meet the Seven Principles of Public Life and adhere to the Code of Conduct for Board members of Public Bodies.