Former Tory ministers defend charging for Brexit advice after undercover sting
2 min read
Three former Tory Cabinet ministers have denied any wrongdoing after they were filmed offering Brexit-related advice to a made-up firm in exchange for a fee.
In a joint investigation by Channel 4's Dispatches and The Sunday Times, Lord Lansley, Andrew Mitchell and Peter Lilley were secretly filmed discussing deals with a fictitious Chinese company in return for intelligence about the Government’s approach to Brexit.
Former Health Secretary Mr Lansley, said he would provide “intelligence” to the firm, and would charge €5,000 a day.
Mr Mitchell, who was International Development Secretary, suggested he was willing to work up to 10 weeks a year for clients alongside his role as an MP.
While former deputy party chair Mr Lilley pointed out that he sits on two advisory groups with influence over the Brexit process.
Commenting on the undercover footage, former chair of the Public Accounts Committee Sir Alistair Graham said: "Giving some special help to one company when that information is not generally available... is just not acceptable."
The former ministers hit back however and denied suggestions there had been any wrong-doing.
"Sir Alistair Graham is entitled to his opinion, but he is wrong," said Lord Lansley.
"I made it clear in these meetings, which took place while I was undergoing cancer treatment, that I would apply the terms of the House of Lords Code in any business relationship; and that this would be written into any contract that I entered into.
"No privileged access, insider information, lobbying activity, parliamentary advice or services were offered."
Mr Lilley said his claim “was relevant only to show that I am engaging in the many ways that Brexit can benefit Britain”.
“I have not undertaken any venture which would involve me breaking the codes of conduct referenced nor the Nolan principles." he said.
"I repeatedly made it crystal clear I would not use confidential information.
"I possess no such information. If I did I wouldn’t make it available to anyone."
Mr Mitchell insisted that all his outside business interests – paid and unpaid – are fully registered in the House of Commons Register of Members' Interests.
"As the journalists' material will show I abide by the letter and the spirit of the rules governing the business interests of Members of Parliament," he said.
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