Friday 27 May 2022 04:19 PM Boris rewrites conduct code to say rule-breaking ministers can say sorry trends now
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Rule-breaking ministers could be docked salary or ordered to say sorry rather than sacked, according to a new version of their code of conduct.
The latest version of the code released by Boris Johnson spells out for the first time that he can impose other punishments if he still retains 'confidence' in the individual.
The premier's sleaze watchdog Lord Geidt has also been handed tougher powers to launch investigations into errant ministers without being asked to do so.
Mr Johnson can still block a formal inquiry if he does not believe it is in the 'public interest' - but in most cases the peer will be able to reveal that he has been prevented from stepping in.
Labour accused Mr Johnson of trying to 'save his own skin' as he faces an inquiry by the Commons Privileges Committee into whether he misled Parliament over Partygate.
But in a foreword Mr Johnson said the iteration was so the code could 'fulfil its purpose, guiding my Ministers on how they should act and arrange their affairs'.
Boris Johnson's (left) sleaze watchdog Lord Geidt (right) has also been handed tougher powers to launch investigations into errant ministers without being asked to do so
The latest version of the code released by Boris Johnson spells out for the first time that he can impose other punishments if he still retains 'confidence' in the individual
Lord Geidt, a former aide to the Queen, has been pushing for months for his role as Independent Adviser on Ministerial Standards to be bolstered.
But there have been concerns that the PM's must keep control over hiring and firing his team
The code now states that 'where the independent adviser
