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ICO Rules Ministers' Criminal Records Can Stay Secret

11/25/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) ruled that ministers' criminal records can remain confidential due to privacy concerns, avoiding a 'jigsaw' effect.
The decision followed the resignation of Louise Haigh, former Labour Transport Secretary, over a past fraud conviction.
Critics, including Liberal Democrat spokesperson Lisa Smart, say the lack of transparency undermines democracy and urge reforms to require ministerial declarations.

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Story summary

The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) ruled that ministers' criminal records can remain confidential due to privacy concerns, avoiding a 'jigsaw' effect.
The decision followed the resignation of Louise Haigh, former Labour Transport Secretary, over a past fraud conviction.
Critics, including Liberal Democrat spokesperson Lisa Smart, say the lack of transparency undermines democracy and urge reforms to require ministerial declarations.