Implementation and enforcement of a code of conduct Brendan Keith Registrar of Members’ Interests House of Lords London

Models for a code of conduct Two possible models for a code of conduct: Prohibition The code sets out what Members may not do Permissive with disclosure Members can do most things but there must be full disclosure of their interests

Implementation and Enforcement Four elements  Advice to Members  A complaints procedure  A review procedure/court of appeal  Sentencing - The role of the Chamber

The need for advice Code of conduct can be short and limited to general principles. It can on the other hand be long and detailed But in either case Members need advice

A complaints procedure What happens when allegations are made that a Member or Members have broken the code of conduct? You need a complaints procedure.

A review procedure What happens after the Commissioner has investigated a complaint that the code has been violated by a Member?

Punishment Most Parliaments are self-regulating the House imposes the penalty for a breach of the code.