§ Mr. JohnTo ask the Secretary of State for Employment 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. LeeComprehensive information is not available about the number of staff in the Department of Employment group who are also directors or consultants in outside organisations because there is no requirement to report these activities unless there is a real or potential conflict with the Department's business.
Staff who engage in such activities are bound by the general rules of conduct that apply to all civil servants. They must not put their private interests before their duty, engage in activities which might involve a conflict of interest with the Department's business, or use their official position to further their private interests. They are not precluded from receiving remuneration. They are not permitted to accept directorships in any company holding a contract with the Department, except as a Government nominee or with express permission.