§ Mr. JohnTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Services how many civil servants in his Department are also directors or consultants in(a) public liability companies, (b) companies limited by guarantee,(c) building societies, (d) other friendly societies and (e) commercial undertakings other than the above; and what rules or instructions govern these activities with particular reference to remuneration.
§ Mr. PortilloI am unable to give precise details of officers in DHSS who are directors or consultants in private industry as comprehensive figures are not available.
The private activities of civil servants are governed by general principles of conduct, laid down centrally. No officers may undertake private activities which impair their usefulness as public servants or are inconsistent with their official role or which conflict with the interests of their Department.
In DHSS, because of the nature of the work, there are additional restrictions. Officers must not undertake private employment with finance companies or with an organisation where there is a likelihood that they would meet and deal with the same people in both their official and private roles. Officers employed on social security work must not deal with a private employer's wage records or with the insurance or benefit side of friendly societies and they are prohibited from holding sub-post master-ships. Individuals are also required to seek official permission before undertaking work about which they have any doubts.
94WProvided that the rules are observed, remuneration is a matter for the officer concerned.