House of Lords Suspends Two Members for Misconduct

Two members of the House of Lords, Lord Dannatt and Lord Evans of Watford, have been suspended following independent investigations that revealed they exploited their positions for financial gain. The investigations were initiated after a newspaper sting operation conducted by The Guardian. The independent Commissioner for Standards recommended the suspensions, which were upheld by the Lords Conduct Committee. Lord Dannatt received a four-month suspension, while Lord Evans was suspended for five months. Both peers opted not to appeal the findings or the recommended sanctions.

The Independent

The investigations found that Lord Dannatt, a former chief of general staff and independent crossbencher, had expressed a willingness to provide paid parliamentary services to undercover journalists. He was found to have engaged in similar conduct on three additional occasions, contacting ministers and officials on behalf of companies in which he had a financial interest. The conduct committee, chaired by Lord Kakkar, emphasized that accepting payment for parliamentary advice or services is strictly prohibited, regardless of the member's motivations.

The Independent

In the case of Lord Evans, the inquiry revealed that he offered “cash for access” during meetings with journalists posing as potential clients of Affinity, a company owned by his son, in which he held a one-third share. The commissioner determined that Lord Evans failed to act on his personal honour by indicating his willingness to introduce the journalists to members of the House, thereby breaching the code of conduct. Additionally, he sponsored events at the House of Lords for Affinity, which were advertised at above-cost prices, further compromising the integrity of the House.

The Independent

Lord Kakkar stated, “The facilities of the House are provided at public expense to support members’ parliamentary work, not to help them generate financial or material gain.” He noted that both peers' actions not only violated the code of conduct but also jeopardized the reputation of the House of Lords.

The Independent

The suspensions have sparked discussions regarding the accountability of members of the House of Lords. Critics argue that such breaches of conduct undermine public trust in the parliamentary system. The lack of appeal from both peers has also raised questions about the adequacy of the sanctions and the effectiveness of the oversight mechanisms in place.

The Independent

• “The code is clear that accepting payment in return for offering parliamentary advice or services, which includes setting up meetings or introductions, or writing to ministers or officials, is prohibited.” — Lord Kakkar, Chairman of the Conduct Committee

The Independent

• “Lord Evans failed to do so, and his actions put the reputation of the House at risk.” — Lord Kakkar, Chairman of the Conduct Committee

The Independent

The suspensions of Lord Dannatt and Lord Evans of Watford highlight ongoing concerns about ethical conduct within the House of Lords. The investigations underscore the importance of maintaining integrity and accountability among members of the upper chamber, as their actions can significantly impact public perception of the parliamentary system.

The Independent