§ Bob SpinkTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what the requirements are on officials in his Department to declare current interests; and what register of interests is kept for his departmental officials. [164709]
§ Mr. Mike O'BrienThe requirements for officials in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office to declare current interests are contained in the Diplomatic Service Regulations and Home Civil Service Regulations. These regulations, stemming from the Civil Service Management Code, set out the principal terms governing employment in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, and highlight the general principle of conduct that
you must not use your official position to further your private interests".Separate regulations cover the circumstances in which officers must declare:
- Gifts, advantages and hospitality
- Private occupations
- Business interests
Declarations and paperwork relating to private occupations and business interests are held on individual files.