PM to block ‘diversity’ rule in MPs’ code of conduct

Cross-party watchdog attempted to add ‘respect’ commitment to seven principles of public life

BORIS JOHNSON is preparing to reject an attempt by the Commons standards watchdog to require MPs to promote “anti-racism, inclusion and diversity” as part of a proposed shake-up of sleaze rules.

A formal government response to proposed changes to the MPs’ code of conduct will oppose an effort to add a new “respect” commitment to the seven principles of public life currently enshrined in the rules.

A Whitehall source said ministers opposed the move because it could curb freedom of speech.

The standards committee is chaired by Chris Bryant, who was a minister under Gordon Brown, and the source accused Labour of attempting to “slip in politically correct restrictions on what elected representatives can say”, amid other changes to the rules.

The move comes after the Lords standards commissioner was criticised over a “sinister” attempt to silence peers who spoke out in a debate about trans prisoners.

A Whitehall source said: “Parliament must remain a place where members can engage in free and open political discussions. The introduction of such additional restrictions could impact free speech on contentious and polarised political issues, a step that could serve to preclude Parliament from robustly scrutinising and debating government policy.”

The new clause was reportedly backed unanimously by the cross-party standards committee, but opposed by 11 MPs who were surveyed anonymously while the report was being drawn up, compared with eight who supported it.

The committee report said that the recommendation would help “to counter unconscious bias and/or underlying racism”.

The recommendations will be put out to consultation among the public and MPs before final proposals are put to a vote in the Commons, expected to take place around Easter.

There is also a clause forbidding MPs from subjecting others to “unreasonable and excessive personal attack”, either in the House of Commons, outside it, or on social media.

The current Parliamentary Behaviour Code sets the expectation that members “treat their staff and all those visiting or working for or with Parliament with dignity, courtesy and respect”.

It is understood No 10 believes this formation strikes the right balance between ensuring a positive and safe environment and the need for freedom in policy and political debate.

The Committee on Standards in Public Life has published an amended descriptor attached to the Leadership principle to reflect the importance of treating others with respect.

While the Government does not consider it necessary to adjust the descriptors specifically in relation to MPs or peers, a source said “we think it is of overarching importance to emphasise tolerance of different viewpoints and protect free debate when considering any changes”.

Under the plans, MPs with second jobs will have to sign contracts agreeing not to lobby the Government or offer advice about how to influence Parliament.

11

The number of MPs who opposed the new clause, despite the cross-party standards committee unanimously backing the move