§ Mr. RedmondTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what measures his Department took in respect of the head of his Department's livestock group to ensure there was not a conflict of interest when he was appointed as a non-executive director of Lucas Ingredients; if he is still associated with that company; and if he will make a statement. [26690]
§ Mr. BoswellThe position of staff holding non-executive directorships or similar appointments is safeguarded by the general requirement binding on all civil servants that they must not take part in activities which might conflict with the interests of their Department, or impair their usefulness as public servants, or be inconsistent with their position as such.
Civil servants acting as directors remain subject to the Official Secrets Acts and the need to preserve the confidentiality of departmental business and information received in confidence from others. In relation to any particular appointment, individuals and their line managers must consider whether there is a present or potential conflict of interest and, if appropriate, an appointment may not be proceeded with, or restrictions may be placed on the kinds of discussion that the individual can take part in.
Where necessary, departmental checks would also be made to ensure that the prospective director is not in possession of commercially sensitive information relating to the company's competitors which might give rise to criticism. The company concerned has a right to expect the director to preserve the confidentiality of its corporate affairs.
The appointment of the head of the livestock group was made with due regard to these principles. The appointment has now lapsed and the person concerned no longer has any association with the company.