What is the Ministerial Code?

Question 1

what is the ministerial code

Answer 1

• Rules/ guidelines for ministers on proper behaviour in public office
• Covers: conduct, propriety, transparency, accountability
• initially confidential, published by John Major in 1992
• regularly updated (e.g. Blair 1997, Johnson 2019, Starmer 2024)
• not legally binding, enforced by PM

Question 2

how has Keir Starmer changed the ministerial code

Answer 2

• stronger independent adviser: can initiate investigations
• reformed investigation process: must publish outcome of any breach
• reinforcement of Nolan Principles: emphasis on accountability, openness, honesty
• transparency in gifts/ hospitality: quarterly publication by Cabinet Office