PRCA calls for Chloe Smith to engage with the lobbying industry
London, 11th September – The PRCA has called for Chloe Smith, who has been handed the ministerial brief for the proposed statutory register of lobbyists, to listen and engage with the industry.
Smith has joined the Cabinet Office from the Treasury to take over from Mark Harper, whose consultation proposals into a statutory register are still being considered following widespread criticism that it would not include in-house lobbyists.
The Government is expected to publish a draft bill and White Paper before May. However, important decisions regarding the definition and scope of the register have yet to be finalised. During the consultation process the PRCA called for a universal statutory register that included all who lobbied in a professional capacity.
Emily Wallace, PRCA Public Affairs Chairman and Director at Connect Communications, commented: “Chloe Smith has a White Paper and bill to draft, and has some big decisions to make. I hope she takes the time to understand the issues fully, engage with the industry and listen to all of us that are committed to introducing a statutory register that works".
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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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