Response to select committee report being prepared

The Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) has called on members to give their views on the Public Administration Select Committee report on lobbying. The CIPR response will concentrate on the report’s proposals for statutory regulation of the lobbying process, and on how this could compliment the CIPR Code of Conduct. Other topics on which it is requesting input include a register of lobbying activity; the introduction of a combined body to oversee and regulate practice; and an externally-assessed standard which members would be required to meet. The CIPR is also calling for the report to help business develop a better understanding of what lobbying can help them achieve.

CIPR director-general Colin Farrington said: “This is a hugely important area for CIPR members with implications hat go beyond the public affairs sector. Lobbyists advise ministers on issues allowing them to make informed decisions about legislation that benefits us all. It is important that any changes to how this system works, and consequently to the CIPR Code, are an improvement. “The CIPR is the only PR professional body nd under its Royal Charter must act for the benefit of the public. We are committed to high standards as are our members, which is why we are inviting them to have an involvement in our response to the report.”

The CIPR has worked alongside the Public Relations Consultants Association (APPC) and Association of Professional Political Consultants (APPC) to ensure agreement between the industry bodies about the key topics.