Article

Ministerial Code

Tuesday, 20 January 2026

View this: Ministerial Code - GOV.UK (HTML)

Summary

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  • Core Duties
    • Maintain high standards, act in the public interest, follow the Seven Principles of Public Life.
  • Behaviour
    • Be honest, respectful, non‑bullying, law‑abiding, and transparent.
    • Give accurate information to Parliament and correct mistakes quickly.
  • Conflicts & Interests
    • Declare all financial/personal interests.
    • Avoid or manage conflicts; may need to divest interests.
    • Gifts over £140 belong to the government unless purchased.
  • Use of Office
    • No party‑political use of government resources.
    • Keep ministerial and constituency roles separate.
    • Uphold Civil Service impartiality.
  • Accountability
    • Ministers answer to Parliament and the Prime Minister.
    • PM decides consequences for breaches; sanctions range from apology to dismissal.
  • Working with Civil Servants
    • Treat civil servants professionally.
    • Consider impartial advice.
    • Protect security of government business.
  • Public Appointments & External Roles
    • Give up other public appointments.
    • Avoid associations that conflict with government policy.
  • Policy & Communications
    • Follow collective responsibility.
    • Clear major announcements with No.10.
    • No payment for official speeches or articles.
  • Travel
    • Use public funds only for official business.
    • Keep delegations small; publish overseas travel quarterly.
  • Leaving Office
    • May forgo severance for short service or serious breaches.
    • Business Appointment Rules continue after leaving.