Decision

Summary of business appointments applications - Giles Paxman

Published 8 April 2015

Giles Paxman left his role as Ambassador to Spain in November 2013

1. Non Equity Partner, The Ambassador Partnership

Giles Paxman sought advice on accepting a role as a Non Equity Partner of the Ambassador Partnership, a corporate diplomacy organisation.

The Committee noted that Mr Paxman had had no official dealings with the Ambassador Partnership, no involvement in policy that could affect them, no involvement in regulatory work that could affect them, and no access to commercially sensitive information about any competitors. They took into account that this position may involve some contact with the FCO or government more generally, but that this would only be through Mr Paxman’s possible involvement in providing training in diplomatic skills.

The Foreign Secretary accepted the Committee’s advice that the application be approved, subject to the conditions that:

  • for two years from his last day of service, Mr Paxman should not become personally involved in lobbying the UK Government on behalf of his new employer or their clients; and

  • he should not draw on privileged information available to him as a Crown servant.

Additionally, the FCO has asked that Mr Paxman keep HMA Madrid informed if he solicits or secures any work with the Spanish Government.

The letter containing the final advice was sent in January 2015.