Background
1.The Conduct Committee has considered a report by the
Commissioner for Standards, Akbar Khan, on the conduct of . We have also considered a
written appeal submitted by , in which he appeals against one
of the Commissioner’s two findings that he breached the Code (he
accepts the other) and against the Commissioner’s recommended
sanction that he make a personal statement of apology to the
House.
2.The procedure followed by the Conduct Committee in considering
reports and appeals is set out in paragraphs 193–196 of the Guide
to the Code of Conduct. Under this procedure an appeal must be
made in writing; the Committee may hear from the member in
person, though in this case did not ask to appear; nor have
we sought further input from the Commissioner.
Conclusion
23.We conclude that should write a letter of
apology to the Chair of the Conduct
Committee, covering both the breaches found
by the Commissioner for Standards.
24.As for his parliamentary office, has himself suggested a way
forward. We note that his original appointment as Independent
Adviser on Antisemitism will expire at the end of March 2024,
around the same time that this report will be published. We trust
that the sponsoring Department will use this opportunity to
provide alternative accommodation for the role.
25.Finally, we remind all members of the House that they are
personally responsible for complying with the House’s Code of
Conduct and the rules on the use of House of Lords facilities.
Advice from third parties, even in Government, cannot displace
this personal responsibility, and any member who is unsure of the
application of the rules should seek the advice of either the
Registrar of Lords’ Interests or the responsible official
specified in the Handbook on facilities and services for
members and their staff.
Full report
