Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask His Majesty's Government what consideration they have given to establishing a single statutory minimum code of ethical conduct applicable to all public authorities, which individual authorities could supplement but not dilute, rather than requiring each authority to formulate its own minimum standards.

The Public Office (Accountability) Bill requires public authorities to have and publish Codes of Ethical Conduct. Each code should explain how those working for the authority can demonstrate candour in the context of their particular organisation, its functions, and the individual’s specific role.

The Bill sets out the minimum requirements that public authorities must meet for their Code to be compliant.