I know that people think ‘Partygate’ is meaningless in light of ‘weightier’ matters, but do those people then believe that standards in public life don’t matter? (This is a serious question, I’m not trying to bait anyone.)
The seven Nolan Principles underpin what, as a country, we should be able to trust our government to adhere to. If you like, it is the baseline for the expected behaviour of public officials. Are Boris Johnson’s supporters saying that the rules shouldn’t apply to him, or that they should no longer be adhered to by anyone in public service?
Selflessness – Holders of public office should act solely in terms of the public interest.
Integrity – Holders of public office must avoid placing themselves under any obligation to people or organisations that might try inappropriately to influence them in their work. They should not act or take decisions to gain financial or other material benefits for themselves, their family, or their friends. They must declare and resolve any interests and relationships.
Objectivity – Holders of public office must act and take decisions impartially, fairly and on merit, using the best evidence and without discrimination or bias.
Accountability – Holders of public office are accountable to the public for their decisions and actions and must submit themselves to the scrutiny necessary to ensure this.
Openness – Holders of public office should act and take decisions in an open and transparent manner. Information should not be withheld from the public unless there are clear and lawful reasons for so doing.
Honesty – Holders of public office should be truthful
Leadership - Holders of public office should exhibit these principles in their own behaviour and treat others with respect. They should actively promote and robustly support the principles and challenge poor behaviour wherever it occurs.
