Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, what steps his Department takes to ensure the acceptance of gifts and hospitality by civil servants comply with Civil Service guidance.

The Civil Service Code states that Civil Servants must not accept gifts or hospitality from anyone which might reasonably be seen to compromise their personal judgement or integrity. As under the previous government, the Department holds a comprehensive policy and guidance on accepting and giving gifts and hospitality. All Civil Servants are required to declare gifts and hospitality both given and received via a central register and obtain approvals.

The Gifts and Hospitality process is subject to audit in order to provide confidence that the department is fulfilling its obligation.