Handling of correspondence
Guidance on how the Independent Adviser handles correspondence
The Independent Adviser is not able to respond individually to all correspondence from members of the public.
The Independent Adviser is appointed to provide independent advice to the Prime Minister on matters relating to the Ministerial Code.
As set out in the terms of reference for the role, the Prime Minister may ask the Independent Adviser to look into a particular matter; the Independent Adviser may also initiate their own investigation. In addition, a minister may refer themselves to the Independent Adviser where they are facing allegations in relation to the Code or where they are concerned that they have failed to uphold the standards set by the Prime Minister in the Code. In all cases, the Independent Adviser’s role is to provide advice to the Prime Minister.
Concerning conduct, the work of the Independent Adviser relates to the specific personal conduct of individual serving ministers in relation to the principles and rules set out in the Ministerial Code whilst in office. It is not within his remit to investigate the actions, decisions or policies of particular departments, or of government more broadly. It is also not part of his role to investigate where correspondence has not been handled effectively by a department, unless the matter relates to correspondence from an MP or Member of the House of Lords to a minister, as set out in paragraph 9.8 of the Ministerial Code. Correspondence concerning the actions, decisions or policies of the Government, its departments or agencies, including historic matters, can be directed to the relevant department or agency for a response. Ministers are rightly accountable to Parliament for Government’s actions taken within their areas of responsibility.