PRCA defends lobbying industry at Electoral Reform Society Conference

London, 28th June – Francis Ingham, PRCA Chief Executive, on Tuesday defended the role of the lobbying industry as a crucial part of the democratic process at the  inaugural Electoral Reform Society Conference.

Speaking  alongside Peter Bingle from Peter Bingle Associates, Neal Lawson from Compass, and Alexandra Runswick from Unlock Democracy, Ingham called for the Government to be honest on its full intentions for introducing a statutory register amid continued delays and uncertainty.

The panel debate - chaired by The Spectator Political Editor James Forsyth - also examined the current role of lobbying in British politics, and the potential impact House of Lords reform might have on the industry.

Peter Bingle and Neal Lawson called for Members of the House of  Lords to be treated similarly to MPs in order to prevent any undue influence. Francis Ingham highlighted the problem of parliamentary passes being handed to friends by Members of the House of  Lords, which could damage both Parliament and the lobbying industry’s reputation.

On the proposed statutory register of lobbyists, Alexandra Runswick commented that the Government had successfully united the public affairs industry and transparency campaigners against the current proposals. There was consensus across the panel that a proposed statutory register would increase transparency and public trust.

An excerpt of Francis Ingham’s speech: “The Government needs to be honest with the industry and the public about the proposed statutory register; it needs to commit to producing a universal register as quickly as possible.

“It is a myth that lobbying is just for big business. Some of the most powerful and successful lobbying campaigns come from charities and NGOs. They too must be included on any statutory register.”

Responding to the ‘Adam Werrity fiasco’: “Almost Invariably when we hear about ‘lobbying scandals’ they do not involve public affairs practitioners at all. However, they always involve politicians or ex-politicians. If we are to have transparency, the onus must fall on politicians as well. The PRCA consistently produces its public affairs register within a month of each quarter, but we are still waiting for ministerial meetings from last year.”

- ENDS -   

Notes to editors

 For more information please contact tom.hawkins@prca.org.uk on 020 7233 6026


About the PRCA

Who we are: Founded in 1969, the PRCA is the professional body that represents UK PR consultancies, in-house communications teams, PR freelancers and individuals. The PRCA promotes all aspects of public relations and internal communications work, helping teams and individuals maximise the value they deliver to clients and organisations.

What we do: The Association exists to raise standards in PR and communications, providing members with industry data, facilitating the sharing of communications best practice and creating networking opportunities.

How we do it and make a difference: All PRCA members are bound by a professional charter and codes of conduct, and benefit from exceptional training. The Association also works for the greater benefit of the industry, sharing best practice and lobbying on the industry's behalf e.g. fighting the NLA's digital licence.

Who we represent: The PRCA represents many of the major consultancies in the UK, and currently has more than 250 agency members from around the world, including the majority of the top 100 UK consultancies. We also represent over 70 in-house communications teams from multinationals, UK charities and leading UK public sector organisations.

 

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