§ Mr. Geoffrey Finsbergasked the Prime Minister what rules apply under his administration relating to the compatibility of the holding of ministerial office with the holding of directorships in private or public companies; and if he will set out such instructions in the OFFICIAL REPORT.
§ The Prime MinisterThe rules governing the conduct of Ministers have applied under successive administrations for many years and they remain unchanged.
Ministers must on assuming office resign any directorships which they may hold, whether in public or in private companies, and whether the directorship carries remuneration or is honorary. The only exception to this rule is that direc-
554WCode (Cmnd. 5779). Talks on all aspects of the White Paper are in progress. I have invited views from representative organisations, individual firms, trade unions and others concerned.