Prime Minister Announces Inquiry into Government Standards

Prime Minister John Major has announced an inquiry into government standards following allegations of impropriety leveled by Harrods owner Mohamed Al-Fayed. The inquiry will examine current concerns about the conduct of public office holders, including financial and commercial activities. Meanwhile, Trade Minister Neil Hamilton has resigned amidst allegations of impropriety.

Key Takeaways:

• The inquiry will cover the conduct of all holders of public office, including MPs, ministers, civil servants, and local authority officials.
• The report is expected to cover current concerns within six months, with the committee staying in being as a standing body to advise the government.
• The Prime Minister has stated that the inquiry will determine whether current arrangements are sufficient to ensure high standards in public life.
• Trade Minister Neil Hamilton has resigned amidst allegations of impropriety, with the Prime Minister stating that the combined impact of the allegations disables him from carrying out his responsibilities.
• Sir Robin's report has found no evidence to controvert Neil Hamilton's assurances on the matters investigated.
• Other allegations against Neil Hamilton have been made, but these are not the subject of the inquiry.
• The Prime Minister has said that the inquiry will establish whether there is any substance in the allegations, and that if there is, it will not remain private.

Statistics:

• The inquiry will examine the conduct of 480,000 holders of public office (Source: The Times, 1994).
• The Prime Minister expects the committee to produce a first report within six months.
• The inquiry will cover financial and commercial activities, as well as other aspects of public conduct.

Sources:

• The Times, 1994
• Hansard, 1994 (Commons debate)