PRCA rejects Government's definition of a lobbyist

London, 13th April – In response to the Government’s consultation on a proposed statutory register of lobbyists the PRCA has rejected the Government’s narrow definition of a lobbyist that includes only those who represent third parties.

Following an extensive consultation with its members, the PRCA has proposed a definition of a lobbyist as a professional that deliberately and intentionally conducts the ‘act of lobbying’, rather than focusing on the profession of the individual itself.

A definition that focuses on the act rather than the profession will ensure that all lobbyists will be placed on the register. This will include professionals that lobby as part of in-house teams, think tanks, trade unions, NGOs, and trade association bodies such as the PRCA.

This definition was produced following a survey of PRCA members that overwhelmingly stated that the Government’s definition was unsuitable. Members also made this clear to the Minister for Constitutional Reform, Mark Harper MP, at the Public Affairs Group meeting on the 26th March.

Francis Ingham, PRCA Chief Executive, said: “Getting the definition right is crucial to creating a register that promotes transparency and produces public trust in our industry and the political institutions they lobby. Unfortunately the Government’s proposed definition is worryingly narrow and therefore unfit for purpose”.

 

To read the PRCA’s full response to the consultation please click here: PRCA Consultation Response

To see Francis Ingham’s oral evidence to the Political and Constitutional Reform Select Committee from last month please click here: PCRC 15th March

Following the consultation, the Government expects to produce a White Paper with draft legislation included at some point this year. Mark Harper MP made it clear at the PRCA PA Group meeting that there will be a statutory register in place by the end of this Parliament.

                                   

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Notes to editors

Tom Hawkins, Policy and Research Executive
T: 020 7233 6026 ¦ E: tom.hawkins@prca.org.uk

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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