PUBLIC LAW L4 - Responsible Government - MINISTERIAL CODE

Question 1

What is the ministerial code? (3)

Answer 1

It is a relatively recent development. it puts into one written document aspects of the various conventions which govern ministerial conduct. The first version was published at the start of Tony Blair’s premiership in 1997.

Question 2

How many principles does the code set out? (1)

Answer 2

Seven.

Question 3

What are the principles of the ministerial code? (7)

Answer 3

Selflessness.
Integrity.
Objectivity.
Accountability.
Openness.
Honesty.
Leadership.

Question 4

Who does the ministerial code apply to? (3)

Answer 4

Government ministers, some parts to parliamentary private secretaries and some parts to special advisors.

Question 5

When is the ministerial code updated and give an example? (2)

Answer 5

Usually when a new PM takes office. Boris Johnson updated it in May 2020 to remove reference to the seven principles.

Question 6

What is a benefit of the ministerial code? (2)

Answer 6

It effectively shadows the traditional conventions, though has the advantage of greater clarity and detail.

Question 7

What does the ministerial code do in terms of CMR and IMR? (2)

Answer 7

It puts CMR into a codified form. In relation to IMR its emphasis is on ministerial accountability to Parliament and ministerial conduct generally rather than on the performance of ministers in office.

Question 8

Do personal and professional conduct standards apply to ministers? (1)

Answer 8

Yes.

Question 9

Have any ministers breached the code and remained in office? (1)

Answer 9

Yes , or been re-appointed to subsequent governments.

Question 10

Does the ministerial code have legal status? (2)

Answer 10

It is not enforceable in law - it is soft law. Ultimate authority continues to rest in the political dimension in the hand of the PM.