(APG0003)

Written evidence submitted by Baroness Goudie

 

Evidence for the inquiry on the Rules and Regulations of APPG

 

  1. The value and benefits of APPG.  The groups do add value and assistance to both houses.  In recent years, there has been a proliferation and some duplication of groups.  There needs to be a clear, concise criteria for the groups.   And maybe the supporting members needs to be higher.  There needs to be an annual report submitted to The House.

 

  1. Transparency and appropriate funding.  There is a clear lack of transparency as to who is funding, providing secretarial support.  The external secretariat has to be clear as to where they are coming from and their expectations to the group, and why they wish to do it.

There must be clear rules regarding:

    1. Lobbyists
    2. Foreign government
    3. Reason for providing assistance

 

  1. Parliamentary passes, I do not support APPG having parliamentary passes. There has to be clear accounts which are submitted to House with the annual report.  At present, there is very little governance.  I agree entirely that the APPG’s are meeting employment and data protection laws. 

 

  1. The status of APPG’s within the house – some run themselves , some run as if they are part of The House.  This creates confusion for select committees.  Accountability has to go with the offices of the APPG, their secretary and treasurer.  The APPG could be better supported if there was a clear set of rules.

 

5 November 2020