Chancellor Refers Himself to Commons’ Standards Tsar Over Auction Prize
Jeremy Hunt’s Fundraising Auction Prize Sparks Investigation
Jeremy Hunt, the Chancellor, has taken the initiative to refer himself to the Commons’ standards tsar. This move comes after he offered a unique prize for auction at his child’s school, potentially violating the rules that govern MPs. According to a report by the i newspaper, Hunt provided parents at his child’s school with the opportunity to bid on a special prize – a “traditional English tea for two to four people in the House of Commons” accompanied by himself and his wife, Lucia.
Controversial Fundraising Efforts
The fundraising prize, which Hunt reportedly offered for three consecutive years, aimed to raise funds for the primary school situated in south-west London. The actual amount of money generated through these auction opportunities remains undisclosed. The latest offer for afternoon tea was noted to have taken place in November 2023.
Response and Accountability
A spokesperson for the Chancellor stated, “Mr. Hunt’s intention was simply to support his child’s primary school with no personal gain involved.” Hunt proactively referred himself to the parliamentary commissioner for standards, expressing apologies if any inadvertent breaches occurred during the process. The ultimate decision regarding any potential rule violations lies with standards commissioner Daniel Greenberg.
Standards and Regulations for MPs
The MPs’ code of conduct emphasizes that services funded by taxpayers should not result in any undue personal advantage or financial benefit for themselves or others. Additionally, guidelines provided to MPs specify that parliamentary estate tours, typically free of charge, should never be offered as raffle or auction prizes under any circumstances.
Previous Instances and Consequences
In a similar context, Green MP Caroline Lucas previously breached Commons’ regulations by charging individuals for tours of Parliament, directing the proceeds towards her 2019 re-election campaign. The breach, categorized as relatively minor by former commissioner Kathryn Stone, prompted Lucas to issue an apology and commit to avoiding any repeated violations to address the situation adequately.
Amongst other instances, Conservative MP George Freeman also faced criticism for providing the opportunity to partake in tea at Parliament as a raffle prize for charities within his Mid Norfolk constituency. Freeman publicly acknowledged being informed that such actions were deemed contrary to the newly established rules, showcasing a growing emphasis on upholding strict standards within parliamentary practices.
FAQs
Q: Can MPs offer parliamentary tours as auction prizes?
A: According to regulations, MPs should refrain from offering parliamentary tours as auction prizes, even if such tours are typically free of charge.
Q: What actions did Jeremy Hunt take following the scrutiny of his fundraising auction prize?
A: Jeremy Hunt voluntarily referred himself to the parliamentary commissioner for standards and expressed apologies for any inadvertent rule breaches.
Q: What consequences did Caroline Lucas face for charging money for tours of Parliament?
A: Following a breach of regulations, Caroline Lucas apologized and committed to avoiding similar violations in the future as advised by the former commissioner.
Q: How did George Freeman respond to the criticism of offering tea at Parliament as a raffle prize?
A: George Freeman acknowledged the error in his actions, publicly stating that he had been made aware of the updated regulations prohibiting such practices.