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Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s announcement of a new job as a newspaper columnist before seeking approval was a “clear and clear violation” of ministerial rules indicating the process needed to be reformed, watchdog groups said. warned.
Former prime minister becomes new prime minister daily mail He became a columnist before seeking permission from the Appointment Advisory Board (Acoba), which regulates conflicts of interest for former government employees.
Acoba Chairman Sir Eric Pickles said Mr Johnson’s blatant disregard for the rules and the lack of sanctions to punish him were “further examples of how outdated” the process is. mentioned.
He argued that Akoba should be able to impose sanctions on those who do not comply with the rules, rather than adopting its current good faith approach, which only outlines guidelines.
In a letter to Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden, Lord Pickles said, “The requirement for former Ministers to seek and comply with Acoba’s advice is clearly set out in the Ministers Act,” adding that the former Ministers have decided to pursue a new policy. Work needs to be done before the committee, which specifically pointed out the passage not to follow, gives advice.
“Mr Johnson’s case is yet another example of how outdated government business rules are,” he continued.
“They are designed to provide guidance when ‘good people’ can be relied upon to comply with the letter and spirit of the rules. If it ever existed, its days are long gone and the modern world has grown beyond the rules. “
Lord Pickles said there was a risk of “further scandals” if ministers did not extend the recommendation period and introduce sanctions for non-compliance.
He added, “It is up to the government what action to take regarding this violation. Given the low risk of the appointment itself and the need to reform the system to address the role commensurate with the risk,” he said. recommend to.”
Acoba accused Johnson of violating ministerial rules when news broke on June 16 that Johnson would be appointed as a regular columnist for the paper.
Watchdogs are frequently accused of being “frustrating” because they are unable to sanction former ministers and civil servants who do not follow the guidelines.
The rule is designed to avoid suspicion that appointments are in exchange for past benefits and to mitigate the risk of ministers abusing privileged access to government contacts.
A correspondence released by the watchdog on Tuesday showed Mr Johnson’s office reached out for last-minute advice after being cryptically trailed in his new role. Post‘s cover.
The newspaper ran a silhouette of Johnson on Thursday, June 15, along with a notice announcing that it had a new star columnist.
Sherry Williams-Walker, who followed Johnson into the private office from 10th place and was later honored to resign, sent an email asking for guidance on the appointment at 12:31 p.m. the next day, when the column was due. be published.
Half an hour later, a pre-recorded video was tweeted. Post It indicates Mr Johnson has confirmed the appointment.
Akoba responded by saying there were media reports suggesting that Johnson was in the position before seeking guidance on the appointment.
Johnson’s response to Akoba’s request for clarification was sent 20 minutes before the 5:00 p.m. deadline set by the committee.
“I have not signed any contracts and received no compensation,” the former lawmaker claimed. “If you have any objections to my signing the contract in the coming weeks, please let me know.