§ Mr. Paul MarsdenTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what rules apply to the disclosure of interests on the part of those serving on public bodies which are responsible to his Department. [56459]
§ Mr. LammyGovernment policy on disclosure of interests by members of public bodies was set out in "Quangos—opening the doors" (1998). This policy is reflected in model codes of practice issued by the Cabinet Office for adoption by these bodies. Bodies' codes require that board members should declare in a register for the purpose any personal or business interest which may, or may be perceived to, influence their judgment, and that the register should be kept up-to-date and open to the public. The codes also state that board members should not participate in the discussion or determination of matters in which they have an interest and should normally withdraw from the meeting if their interest is direct and pecuniary.