These Guiding Principles of Conduct set out the standards expected of anyone seeking to influence public policy, legislation or decision-making. They reflect established principles of professional lobbying, including those promoted by the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR).
Everyone has the right to make representations to holders of public office, whether to seek a change in policy or legislation, request information, put forward a case or express a particular point of view. However, these representations should always be made responsibly and in a way that protects standards in public life and maintains trust in the democratic process.
These principles should apply to anyone seeking to influence government, Parliament or other public bodies, whether acting on their own behalf, representing another organisation or providing advice to a third party.
They are intended to complement, rather than replace, any professional codes, statutory requirements or rules that apply to particular professions, organisations or individuals. Further information on lobbying Parliament is available from the UK Parliament.
1. Transparency & Openness
- Always be clear and precise about your identity and the identity of any individual, organisation or interest you represent, whether directly or in an advisory capacity.
- Never use a false identity or claim to represent an individual or organisation without their express permission.
- Where professional or statutory rules require disclosure of clients or interests, ensure this information is properly declared.
2. Accuracy & Honesty
- Never knowingly make false or misleading claims, withhold information in a deliberately misleading way or misrepresent the views of another person or organisation.
- Take reasonable steps to check the accuracy of information before presenting it to public officials or other decision-makers.
- Correct inaccurate or misleading information promptly if an error subsequently becomes apparent.
3. Integrity
- Never offer money, employment, substantial gifts, hospitality or any other improper inducement to a holder of public office in an attempt to influence a decision.
- Declare any relevant financial, professional or personal relationship that could reasonably create, or appear to create, a conflict of interest.
- Respect the rules relating to the registration and declaration of interests. Information about parliamentary interests can be found in the Registers of Interests.
4. Propriety
- Always comply with the rules and procedures of the public body to which representations are being made. Where necessary, seek guidance from that body before proceeding.
- Never encourage a holder of public office to breach the rules, standards or codes governing their position.
- Anyone dealing with Members of Parliament should be aware of the House of Commons Code of Conduct and the rules relating to lobbying, outside interests and declarations.
Similar principles of professional responsibility, transparency and clear communication are important across many regulated and advisory professions. For example, Westville Associates provides professional building surveying and party wall advice, where impartial guidance and clearly defined responsibilities are particularly important.
5. Conflicts of Interest
- Identify potential conflicts of interest at the earliest opportunity and disclose them to the relevant parties where appropriate.
- Do not represent competing or conflicting interests where doing so would compromise professional independence, confidentiality or the interests of those represented.
- Where a conflict cannot be appropriately managed, withdraw from the relevant activity or representation.
6. Professional Responsibility
- Maintain appropriate records of significant representations, instructions and disclosures where required by professional standards or legislation.
- Respect confidential information obtained during professional activities and do not use privileged or confidential information improperly.
- Keep up to date with changes to lobbying rules, professional standards and relevant legislation.