House of Lords - Committee for Privileges and Conduct: The Conduct of Lord Cunningham of Felling - HL 94

Book excerpt: The report The Conduct Of Lord Cunningham of Felling (HL 94) follows a request by Lord O'Neill to investigate him following a conversation between Lord O'Neill and undercover journalists working for the 'Sunday Times', which was covertly recorded by the journalists. The journalists posed as strategic consultants representing a South Korean investor looking to market innovative solar technology in the United Kingdom. The consultants wanted to recruit parliamentarians to further the client's interests within Parliament and government. The journalists alleged that Lord Cunningham was in breach of the code by indicating he was willing to: (i) Host functions in the House of Lords on behalf of a paying client; (ii) Help establish an all-party group at the behest of the client; and (iii) Act as a paid advocate in the House and to provide parliamentary advice and services. In addition to those three allegations, which were published,