Thangam Debbonaire – 2021 Comments on Code of Conduct Report

The comments made by Thangam Debbonaire, the Shadow Leader of the House of Commons, on 29 November 2021.

Over the last few weeks, it has become clear that when one of their mates is found guilty of breaking the rules, this Government’s first instinct is to rip them up, rather than accept the punishment.

The Standards Committee proposals to strengthen the MP’s Code of Conduct published today, are a welcome step in recognising that the processes around lobbying need addressing and that conflicts of interest need nipping in the bud.

Labour supports a ban on directorships and paid consultancy and will examine the detail of the Committee’s final report when it comes in the new year to ensure any moves to do so are comprehensive and watertight. When the report is published, the House of Commons must be given the chance to fully debate and approve measures to toughen up the system.