Public Office (Accountability) Bill — Amendment Paper: Notices of Amendments as at 15 January 2026

Report StageThursday 15 January 2026
Public Office (Accountability) Bill, As Amended
(Amendment Paper)
This document lists all amendments tabled to the Public Office (Accountability) Bill. Any withdrawn
amendments are listed at the end of the document. The amendments are arranged in the order in which
it is expected they will be decided.
★ New Amendments.
New Amendments: 147, 147(a) and 148
_Gov_NC8 Secretary David Lammy
. To move the following Clause—
“Information contained in public records
(1) This section applies to information contained in a record that is transferred to
a relevant authority under—
(a) the Public Records Act 1958,
(b) the Public Records (Scotland) Act 1937,
(c) the Public Records Act (Northern Ireland) 1923, or
(d) any other enactment or arrangement under which records are
transferred to a relevant authority for their care and preservation.
(2) For the purposes of this Chapter, the information is not to be treated as
information that is held by—
(a) the relevant authority, or
(b) persons who work for the authority.
(3) Each of the following is a “relevant authority”—
(a) the Public Record Office;
(b) the Keeper of Public Records;
(c) an authority responsible for records deposited at a place of deposit
appointed under section 4 of the Public Records Act 1958;
(d) the Keeper of the Records of Scotland;
(e) the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland;

(f) any other person with responsibility for the care and preservation of
records under arrangements made with an authority within any of
paragraphs (a) to (e).
(4) In this section references to a record being “transferred” to a relevant authority
include references to it being transmitted to, or accepted or acquired by, the
authority.”
Member's explanatory statement
This new clause provides for an exemption from the duty of candour and assistance for bodies such
as the National Archives so far as relating to their statutory responsibilities of holding public records.
_Gov_NC9 Secretary David Lammy
. To move the following Clause—
“Abolition of common law offence: Northern Ireland
(1) The offence of misconduct in public office under the common law of Northern
Ireland is abolished.
(2) Subsection (1) does not apply in relation to—
(a) any act which was done before the coming into force of this section,
or
(b) any act which began before the coming into force of this section and
continues after its coming into force.
(3) Subsection (1) does not affect—
(a) the liability of any person for an offence other than the offence of
misconduct in public office under the common law of Northern Ireland,
or
(b) the civil liability of any person for the tort of misfeasance in public
office.”
Member's explanatory statement
This new clause provides for the abolition of the offence of misconduct in public office under the
common law of Northern Ireland.
_NC1 Maria Eagle
Ian Byrne
Zarah Sultana
Claire Hanna
. To move the following Clause—
“Post-legislative assessment of the legal duty of candour for public authorities
and public officials
(1) The Secretary of State must, within 12 months of the passing of this Act, publish
a report into—
REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026 2

(a) the impact of the Act’s provisions on increasing public confidence that
public authorities’ internal processes are fit for purpose in identifying
and investigating failures when they first arise following a major
incident.
(b) the role of the standing public advocate in assessing public authorities’
responses to affected individuals and relatives of bereaved victims
following a major incident or where there is a major public concern
that public authorities may not be acting in the best interests of those
affected by a major incident.
(2) The report must assess—
(a) extending the public advocate’s powers to facilitate the gathering of
information from those people affected by a major incident to support
official inquiries and investigations to help ensure that all public
authorities and officials are acting in accordance with the duty of
candour set out in this Act.
(b) the case for facilitating a mechanism whereby the public advocate can
instigate an independent panel to collate evidence and information
following a major incident to support the oversight of public authorities
and officials’ responses to major incidents.
(c) the costs of establishing independent panels as compared to
non-statutory inquiries, or statutory inquiries under the Inquiries Act
2005 in line with paragraph (b).
(3) The Secretary of State must lay a copy of the Report before Parliament.”
_NC2 Jess Brown-Fuller
Tessa Munt
Tom Morrison
Max Wilkinson
Marie Goldman
Mr Will Forster
Vikki Slade
Seamus Logan
Liz Jarvis
Zarah Sultana
Ian Byrne
Helen Maguire
Claire Hanna
. To move the following Clause—
“Offence of wilfully destroying information or records relevant to an inquiry
or investigation
(1) A public authority or public official commits an offence if—
(a) they deliberately destroy relevant information or records relevant to
an inquiry, investigation, or inquest;
(b) they know that, or are reckless as to whether, the information is relevant
to or required by an inquiry, investigation, or inquest.
(2) A public official who commits an offence under this section is liable—
3 REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026

(a) on summary conviction in England and Wales, to imprisonment for a
term not exceeding the general limit in a magistrates’ court or a fine
(or both);
(b) on summary conviction in Scotland, to imprisonment for a term not
exceeding 12 months or a fine not exceeding the statutory maximum
(or both);
(c) on summary conviction in Northern Ireland, to imprisonment for a term
not exceeding six months or a fine not exceeding the statutory maximum
(or both);
(d) on conviction on indictment, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding
two years or a fine (or both).”
Member's explanatory statement
This new clause introduces an offence for wilfully destroying relevant records after a major incident
that may lead to an inquiry or inquest.
_NC3 Jess Brown-Fuller
Tessa Munt
Tom Morrison
Max Wilkinson
Marie Goldman
Mr Will Forster
Vikki Slade
Zarah Sultana
Liz Jarvis
Helen Maguire
Ian Byrne
Sorcha Eastwood
Claire Hanna
. To move the following Clause—
“Monitoring compliance with duties under the Act
(1) The Secretary of State must commission and publish annually an independent
report which monitors public authorities’ compliance with their duties under
the Act.
(2) The report must assess—
(a) public authorities’ record-keeping, disclosures and responses to inquiries
and investigations;
(b) the effectiveness of enforcement and sanctions provisions in the Act in
helping to ensure that public authorities and public officials perform
their functions in line with the duty of candour in their dealings with
inquiries and investigations; and
(c) the effectiveness of the provisions in the Act for supporting persons,
including public officials, making protected disclosures and for reporting
wrongdoings to an inquiry or investigation following a major incident.
(3) The Secretary of State must lay a copy of each report before both Houses of
Parliament.
(4) The first report must be laid within the period of 12 months of the passing of
this Act.
REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026 4

(5) Each subsequent report must be laid annually beginning with the day on which
the previous report was laid.”
Member's explanatory statement
This new clause requires the Secretary of State to commission and publish annually an independent
report with the purpose of providing an oversight mechanism to monitor compliance with duties
under the Act.
_NC4 Jess Brown-Fuller
Tessa Munt
Tom Morrison
Max Wilkinson
Marie Goldman
Mr Will Forster
Sorcha EastwoodVikki SladeLiz Jarvis
Claire Hanna
. To move the following Clause—
“Conduct of public authorities and access to legal aid for seriously injured
survivors who are participating in inquests or inquiries
(1) Legal aid must be made available, without a means test, to seriously injured
survivors who are participating in inquests or inquiries where there are
reasonable grounds for believing the matter under investigation relates to the
conduct of public authorities tasked with carrying out public functions, or
public officials working for bodies in a public capacity, in connection with the
discharge of their public duties.
(2) The Secretary of State must, within three months of the Act receiving Royal
Assent, make regulations to—
(a) add civil legal services to Part 1 of Schedule 1 of the Legal Aid,
Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012 in connection with
proceedings relating to seriously injured survivors who are participating
in inquests or inquiries as under subsection (1);
(b) amend the Civil Legal Aid (Merits Criteria) Regulations 2013 (S.I.
2013/104) for the purposes of providing criteria for a determination for
legal representation in respect of cases under subsection (1).
(3) This section comes into force on the day on which this Act is passed.”
Member's explanatory statement
This new clause would extend civil legal aid to seriously injured survivors who are participating in
inquests or inquiries where the conduct of public bodies or public officials is in question.
5 REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026

_NC5 Andy Slaughter
Carla Denyer
Kim Johnson
Ian Byrne
Bambos Charalambous
Zarah Sultana
Claire Hanna
. To move the following Clause—
“Review of the merits of establishing a national oversight mechanism for
ensuring candour and transparency of public authorities in respect of inquests
and inquiries
The Secretary of State must, within six months of the passing of this Act, carry
out a review to determine the merits of establishing an independent oversight
mechanism to help ensure candour, transparency and follow up with respect
to the actions of a public authority arising from the conclusions and
recommendations of inquests and inquiries.”
_NC6 Andy Slaughter
Carla Denyer
Kim Johnson
Ian Byrne
Bambos Charalambous
Zarah Sultana
Claire Hanna
. To move the following Clause—
“Monitoring the standards of ethical conduct of officials in response to the
recommendations from inquests and inquiries
In discharging its duty under section 9(1) of this Act a public authority must
monitor the standards of officials in response to the recommendations from
inquests and inquiries to ensure they are acting with candour, transparency
and frankness.”
_NC7 Dr Kieran Mullan
. To move the following Clause—
“Public interest
(1) Within six months of the passing of this Act, the Secretary of State must define
in regulations what constitutes the “public interest” for the purposes of section
1(1)(b).
(2) Regulations under subsection (1) may not be made unless a draft has been laid
before and approved by a resolution of each House of Parliament.”
REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026 6

Member's explanatory statement
This new clause would require the Secretary of State to define public interest for the purposes of
this Act by regulations.
_13 Luke Myer
Dr Ellie Chowns
Carla Denyer
Siân Berry
Neil Duncan-Jordan
Vikki Slade
Dr Simon Opher
Liz Saville Roberts
Mr Jonathan Brash
Rosie Duffield
Steve Witherden
Sean Woodcock
Ann Davies
Emma Lewell
Ben Lake
Dawn Butler
Llinos Medi
Ian Byrne
. Clause 1, page 2, line 1, after “public authorities” insert “, Members of both Houses of
Parliament”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is connected to Amendment 14.
_1 Jess Brown-Fuller
Tessa Munt
Tom Morrison
Max Wilkinson
Marie Goldman
Mr Will Forster
Vikki Slade
Zarah Sultana
Liz Jarvis
Helen Maguire
Claire Hanna
Ian Byrne
Sorcha Eastwood
Seamus Logan
. Clause 2, page 2, line 35, at end insert—
“(ca) where the authority or official has relevant records, including digital
messages and communication, retain and disclose those records;”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment would add the disclosure of digital messages and communication to the assistance
that a public authority or official must provide to an inquiry or investigation.
7 REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026

_3 Jess Brown-Fuller
Tessa Munt
Tom Morrison
Max Wilkinson
Marie Goldman
Mr Will Forster
Vikki Slade
Zarah Sultana
Liz Jarvis
Helen Maguire
Claire Hanna
Ian Byrne
Sorcha Eastwood
Seamus Logan
. Clause 2, page 2, line 39, at end insert—
“(f) ensure all relevant public officials can safely disclose information to an
inquiry, investigation or inquest.”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment requires public authorities or officials who assisting an inquiry, investigation or
inquest to demonstrate that they have taken steps to ensure relevant persons can safely disclose
information relevant to an investigation.
_4 Jess Brown-Fuller
Tessa Munt
Tom Morrison
Max Wilkinson
Marie Goldman
Mr Will Forster
Vikki Slade
Zarah Sultana
Liz Jarvis
Helen Maguire
Claire Hanna
Ian Byrne
Sorcha Eastwood
Seamus Logan
. Clause 4, page 4, line 19, after “authority” insert “or any sub-contractor in any chain of
provision to a service provider”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment ensures that any person involved in providing a service to a service provider which
was subcontracted will fall under the duty to comply with the duty of candour and assistance to an
inquiry or investigation.
_5 Jess Brown-Fuller
Tessa Munt
Tom Morrison
Max Wilkinson
Marie Goldman
Mr Will Forster
Vikki Slade
Seamus Logan
Liz Jarvis
Zarah Sultana
Ian Byrne
Sorcha Eastwood
Claire Hanna
REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026 8

. Clause 5, page 5, line 21, at end insert—
“(1A) Where an offence under this section is committed by—
(a) a public authority, or
(b) a body corporate with relevant public responsibility under section 4 of
this Act,
the chief officer or chief executive (as well as the public authority or body
corporate) is guilty of the offence and liable to be proceeded against and
punished accordingly.”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment would place a personal responsibility on the chief officer or chief executive of a
public authority or a corporate body with public responsibility under Clause 4 for an offence of
failing to comply with the duty of candour and assistance.
_Gov_26 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 6, page 5, line 37, after “applies” insert “(subject as follows)—
(a)”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on Amendments 27 and 147.
_21 Ian Byrne
Jess Brown-Fuller
Anneliese Midgley
Paula Barker
Kim Johnson
Tessa Munt
Marie GoldmanMax WilkinsonTom Morrison
Sorcha EastwoodColum EastwoodMr Will Forster
Imran HussainEmma LewellRichard Burgon
Chris HinchliffMary Kelly FoyClive Efford
Clive LewisLorraine BeaversJohn McDonnell
Bell Ribeiro-AddyLee BarronAndy McDonald
Apsana BegumBrian LeishmanMs Diane Abbott
Rachael MaskellNadia WhittomeRebecca Long Bailey
Kate OsborneIan LaveryGrahame Morris
Andrew GwynneVicky FoxcroftJeremy Corbyn
Neil Duncan-JordanCharlotte NicholsKate Osamor
Cat EcclesLouise HaighMargaret Mullane
Zarah SultanaClaire HannaMarsha De Cordova
Carla DenyerSiân BerrySeamus Logan
Barry GardinerDr Ellie ChownsAdrian Ramsay
Ann DaviesLiz Saville RobertsMs Marie Rimmer
Steve WitherdenLlinos MediBen Lake
Ms Stella Creasy
9 REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026

. Clause 6, page 5, line 37, leave out from “applies” to the end of line 38 and insert “, subject
as follows—
(a) to an intelligence service as it applies to other public authorities, and
(b) to a person who works for an intelligence service as it applies to other
public officials.”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment would ensure the duty of candour and assistance applies to a person working for
an intelligence service as well as the service itself.
_Gov_27 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 6, page 5, line 38, at end insert—
“(b) to a person who works for an intelligence service as it applies to other
public officials.”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment clarifies that the duty of candour and assistance applies to persons working for the
intelligence services in the same way as that duty applies to other public officials, subject to certain
safeguards dealt with in the rest of clause 6 (as amended by Amendment 147).
_Gov_28 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 6, page 5, line 39, leave out “But”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on Amendment 26.
_22 Ian Byrne
Jess Brown-Fuller
Anneliese Midgley
Paula Barker
Kim Johnson
Tessa Munt
Marie GoldmanMax WilkinsonTom Morrison
Sorcha EastwoodColum EastwoodMr Will Forster
Imran HussainEmma LewellRichard Burgon
Chris HinchliffMary Kelly FoyClive Efford
Clive LewisLorraine BeaversJohn McDonnell
Bell Ribeiro-AddyLee BarronAndy McDonald
Apsana BegumBrian LeishmanMs Diane Abbott
Rachael MaskellNadia WhittomeRebecca Long Bailey
Kate OsborneIan LaveryGrahame Morris
Andrew GwynneVicky FoxcroftJeremy Corbyn
Neil Duncan-JordanCharlotte NicholsKate Osamor
Marsha De CordovaCat EcclesLouise Haigh
Seamus LoganZarah SultanaClaire Hanna
Liz Saville RobertsMs Marie RimmerBarry Gardiner
REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026 10

Llinos MediBen LakeAnn Davies
Siân BerryMs Stella CreasySteve Witherden
Adrian RamsayCarla DenyerDr Ellie Chowns
. Clause 6, page 5, line 40, leave out subsection (2)(a)
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment would remove the exemption for a person who works for an intelligence service
to notify an inquiry or investigation of relevant acts or information.
_Gov_29 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 6, page 5, line 40, after “service” insert “(other than the head of an intelligence service
when discharging that obligation on behalf of the service)”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment clarifies that the obligation under clause 2(3) to give a notification applies to the
head of an intelligence service when acting on behalf of the service.
_Gov_30 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 6, page 6, line 2, leave out from “of” to end of line 3 and insert “security or intelligence
information”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on Amendment 36.
_Gov_147 Secretary David Lammy
★ . Clause 6 , page 6, line 3, at end insert—
“(2A) Where, in compliance with the obligation under section 2(4), a person who
works for an intelligence service would be required to provide security or
intelligence information, the obligation applies in respect of that information
only if the head of the service consents to it being provided.
5 (2B) The head of an intelligence service may withhold consent under subsection
(2A) only if it reasonably appears to the head that either of the following
conditions is met.
(2C) The first condition is that it is necessary for consent to be withheld in the
10
interests of national security or otherwise for the purposes of the proper
exercise of the functions of the service.
(2D) The second condition is that the information would not be of assistance to the
inquiry or investigation in meeting its objectives.
11 REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026

(2E) Where the head of an intelligence service withholds consent under subsection
15
(2A), the head must notify the person leading the inquiry or investigation of
that fact.”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment ensures that the duty of candour and assistance may require a person who works
for an intelligence service to provide security or intelligence information with the consent of the
head of their service.
As an amendment to Secretary David Lammy's proposed Amendment 147:—
_(a) Dr Kieran Mullan
★ . Line 15, at end insert—
“(2F) The Intelligence and Security Committee of Parliament (ISC) must examine and
report on the impact of subsections (2A) to (2E) on the operation of the
intelligence services.
(2G) The Prime Minister must lay the ISC’s report specified in subsection (2F) before
both Houses of Parliament.
(2H) No regulations or order may be made under paragraph 25(2)(b) of this Act to
bring into force subsections (2A) to (2E) until the report specified in subsection
(2F) has been laid before and approved by resolution of both Houses of
Parliament.”
_20 Seamus Logan
Sorcha Eastwood
Kirsty Blackman
Stephen Flynn
Pete Wishart
Brendan O'Hara
Graham Leadbitter
Zarah Sultana
Llinos Medi
Apsana Begum
Stephen Gethins
Paula Barker
Ben Lake
Richard Burgon
Chris Law
Dave Doogan
Liz Saville Roberts
Ann Davies
Brian Leishman
. Clause 6, page 6, line 3, at end insert—
“(2A) Where an obligation to give notification would have arisen under section 2(3),
save for the exemptions in subsection (2), the head of the relevant intelligence
service must provide a written notification to the Intelligence and Security
Committee of the UK Parliament summarising the acts that may be relevant
to an inquiry or investigation.”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment aims to provide accountability for intelligence services and their operations in
relation to the duty of candour and its exemptions from them.
REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026 12

_Gov_32 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 6, page 6, line 4, at beginning insert “For the purpose of securing compliance with
the obligation under section 2(3),”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment clarifies that the arrangements referred to in clause 6(3) are for the purposes of
ensuring that the obligation to notify an inquiry or investigation under clause 2(3) is complied with
by intelligence services or those that work for them.
_23 Ian Byrne
Jess Brown-Fuller
Anneliese Midgley
Paula Barker
Kim Johnson
Tessa Munt
Marie GoldmanMax WilkinsonTom Morrison
Sorcha EastwoodColum EastwoodMr Will Forster
Imran HussainEmma LewellRichard Burgon
Chris HinchliffMary Kelly FoyClive Efford
Clive LewisLorraine BeaversJohn McDonnell
Bell Ribeiro-AddyLee BarronAndy McDonald
Apsana BegumBrian LeishmanMs Diane Abbott
Rachael MaskellNadia WhittomeRebecca Long Bailey
Kate OsborneIan LaveryGrahame Morris
Andrew GwynneVicky FoxcroftJeremy Corbyn
Neil Duncan-JordanCharlotte NicholsKate Osamor
Cat EcclesLouise HaighMargaret Mullane
Zarah SultanaClaire HannaMarsha De Cordova
Carla DenyerSiân BerrySeamus Logan
Barry GardinerDr Ellie ChownsAdrian Ramsay
Ann DaviesLiz Saville RobertsMs Marie Rimmer
Steve WitherdenLlinos MediBen Lake
Ms Stella Creasy
. Clause 6, page 6, line 12, at end insert—
“(3A) A person who works or has worked for an intelligence service complies with
their obligations under section 2(4) by providing all relevant information and
assistance to the head of their intelligence service.
(3B) Within 28 days of receipt of such information, the head shall have the material
reviewed for the sole purposes of determining whether to make—
(a) an application under any enactment or consequent to the common law
rules referred to in subsection (3F) that such information should be
subject to restrictions on disclosure by the inquiry or investigation, or
(b) an application to a relevant Minister that the inquiry or investigation
should be converted to one which has sufficient powers and safeguards
to deal with material to which national security concerns may apply.
(3C) Minister shall determine an application received under subsection (3B)(b) within
3 months of receipt.
13 REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026

(3D) On or before the expiry of the 28 days under subsection (3B), the head shall—
(a) provide information received under subsection (3A) to the inquiry or
investigation together with any application under subsection (3B)(a),
or
(b) shall make an application under (3B)(b) and withhold the relevant
information and assistance until the Minister has determined the
application.
(3E) Compliance with the above process by the head shall be deemed to be a part
of the duty of candour and assistance for the purposes of section 5.
(3F) Nothing in this Chapter affects the common law rules as to the withholding,
on grounds of public interest immunity, of any material in any proceedings.”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment would require a person who works for an intelligence service to provide information
or assistance relevant to an inquiry to the head of their service and places duties on the head to
review and determine whether or how to provide the information to the inquiry or investigation.
_Gov_33 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 6, page 6, line 13, leave out subsection (4)
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on Amendment 35.
_Gov_148 Secretary David Lammy
★ . Clause 6, page 6, line 19, at end insert—
“(5) Nothing in this Chapter affects—
(a) the common law rules as to the withholding, on grounds of public
interest immunity, of any material in any proceedings;
(b) rights to seek any remedy available in connection with decisions taken
under this section (whether in proceedings on judicial review or
otherwise).”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment clarifies that common law rules relating to claims to public interest immunity are
unaffected by the duty of candour and assistance and that decisions taken under clause 6 (in particular,
a decision of the head of an intelligence service to refuse consent under new subsection (2A) as
inserted by Amendment 147) may be challenged on judicial review etc.
_Gov_35 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 8, page 6, line 28, at end insert—
““head”, in relation to an intelligence service, means—
REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026 14

(a) in relation to the Security Service, the Director General of the Security
Service;
(b) in relation to the Secret Intelligence Service, the Chief of the Secret
Intelligence Service;
(c) in relation to the Government Communications Headquarters, the
Director of the Government Communications Headquarters.”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on Amendment 147.
_Gov_36 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 8, page 7, line 9, at end insert—
““security or intelligence information” means information relating to security or
intelligence, within the meaning given by section 1(9) of the Official Secrets
Act 1989.”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on Amendment 147.
_2 Jess Brown-Fuller
Tessa Munt
Tom Morrison
Max Wilkinson
Marie Goldman
Mr Will Forster
Vikki Slade
Seamus Logan
Liz Jarvis
Zarah Sultana
Ian Byrne
Sorcha Eastwood
Claire Hanna
. Clause 9, page 8, line 3, after “work” insert “including the retention and disclosure of digital
records including messages relevant to their public functions”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment ensures that digital messages and records are added to the duty of candour in
relation to inquiries and inquests.
_Gov_37 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 9, page 8, line 7, leave out “code” and insert “standards of conduct expected of them”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is to include cases where some or all of the standards of conduct expected of a
person who works for a public authority are contained in legislation or otherwise than in the
authority’s code of ethical conduct.
15 REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026

_6 Jess Brown-Fuller
Tessa Munt
Tom Morrison
Max Wilkinson
Marie Goldman
Mr Will Forster
Vikki Slade
Seamus Logan
Liz Jarvis
Zarah Sultana
Ian Byrne
Sorcha Eastwood
Claire Hanna
. Clause 9, page 8, line 18, after “disclosures” insert “and to whom such disclosures should be
made;
(ba) how a person making a protected disclosure under paragraph (b) is
protected;
(bb) a list of prescribed people and bodies to whom a potential whistleblower
may speak to in confidence about a relevant concern.”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment would require that a public authority’s code of ethical conduct includes information
on whom a person can make a protected disclosure to and how that person would be protected.
_7 Jess Brown-Fuller
Tessa Munt
Tom Morrison
Max Wilkinson
Marie Goldman
Mr Will Forster
Sorcha EastwoodVikki SladeLiz Jarvis
Claire Hanna
. Clause 9, page 8, line 23, leave out subsection (6) and insert—
“(6) The Secretary of State must introduce a standard template for ethical conduct
of conduct for completion by public authorities which satisfies the requirements
in this section and which may be added to by public authorities to include
information specific to their organisation or function.”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment would require the Secretary of State to introduce standard template to ensure a
consistent and high standard approach to completion of code of ethical conduct documentation
across public authorities.
_Gov_38 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 9, page 9, line 5, at end insert—
“(11A) For the purposes of this Chapter—
REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026 16

(a) a person who works at a school maintained by a local authority in
England or Wales is to be treated as working for the proprietor of that
school rather than for the authority;
(b) a person who works at a designated institution in England or Wales is
to be treated as working for the governing body of the institution
rather than for any other body;
(c) a person who works at a grant-aided school in Northern Ireland is to
be treated as working for the Board of Governors of the school rather
than for any other body.
(11B) In subsection (11A)—
“designated institution” means an institution that is a designated
institution for the purposes of Part 1 of the Further and Higher
Education Act 1992;
“grant-aided school” has the meaning given by Article 2(2) of the
Education and Libraries (Northern Ireland) Order 1986 (S.I. 1986/594
(N.I. 3));
“proprietor” has the meaning given by section 579(1) of the Education
Act 1996;
“school maintained by a local authority” has the same meaning as in the
School Standards and Framework Act 1998 (see section 142(1) of that
Act).”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment ensures that the duties under clause 9 to adopt codes of ethical conduct that fall
upon governing bodies of schools, and on the governing bodies of designated institutions in the
further education sector, will be adopted for people who work at the school or institution but are
employed by a body other than the governing body.
_Gov_39 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 9, page 9, line 7, at end insert—
“(b) references to a person who “works for” a public authority are to be
read in accordance with subsection (3) of section 23 as if paragraph (h)
of that subsection were omitted.”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment ensures that public authority codes of conduct are primarily required to cover those
with employment or contractual relationship with the authority, excluding from scope individuals
who exercise functions on behalf of the authority but may not be directly accountable to it.
17 REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026

_14 Luke Myer
Dr Ellie Chowns
Carla Denyer
Siân Berry
Neil Duncan-Jordan
Ben Lake
Dawn Butler
Llinos Medi
Mr Jonathan Brash
Rosie Duffield
Dr Simon Opher
Liz Saville Roberts
Lillian Jones
Emma Lewell
Steve Witherden
Sean Woodcock
Ann Davies
Ian Byrne
. Clause 11, page 9, line 22, after “public authority” insert “, Member of either House of
Parliament”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment expands the offence of misleading the public to apply to Members of either House
of Parliament.
_15 Luke Myer
Dr Ellie Chowns
Carla Denyer
Siân Berry
Neil Duncan-Jordan
Vikki Slade
Dr Simon Opher
Liz Saville Roberts
Lillian Jones
Emma Lewell
Steve Witherden
Sean Woodcock
Ann Davies
Ian Byrne
Ben Lake
Dawn Butler
Llinos Medi
Mr Jonathan Brash
Rosie Duffield
. Clause 11, page 9, line 23, after “authority” insert “, Member”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is connected to Amendment 14.
_25 Tom Morrison
Seamus Logan
. Clause 11, page 9, line 26, at end insert—
“(1A) An act under subsection (1)(a) includes the provision of misleading information
to a person acting for the purposes of journalism (as described in subsection
(4)(b)) carried out via a press statement, media briefing, or other communication
intended for dissemination by a recognised news publisher.”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment would ensure that the offence of misleading the public would include a public
authority or public official providing misleading information to a recognised news publisher.
REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026 18

_16 Luke Myer
Dr Ellie Chowns
Carla Denyer
Siân Berry
Neil Duncan-Jordan
Vikki Slade
Dr Simon Opher
Liz Saville Roberts
Lillian Jones
Emma Lewell
Steve Witherden
Sean Woodcock
Ann Davies
Ian Byrne
Ben Lake
Dawn Butler
Llinos Medi
Mr Jonathan Brash
Rosie Duffield
. Clause 11, page 9, line 38, after "authority" insert “, Member of either House of Parliament”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is connected to Amendment 14.
_Gov_40 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 11, page 10, line 2, leave out paragraph (a)
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment, together with Amendment 70, provides for clause 11 to extend and apply fully to
all parts of the United Kingdom.
_8 Jess Brown-Fuller
Tessa Munt
Tom Morrison
Max Wilkinson
Marie Goldman
Mr Will Forster
Sorcha EastwoodVikki SladeLiz Jarvis
. Clause 11, page 10, line 5, leave out paragraph (b)
_17 Luke Myer
Dr Ellie Chowns
Carla Denyer
Siân Berry
Neil Duncan-Jordan
Vikki Slade
Dr Simon Opher
Liz Saville Roberts
Mr Jonathan Brash
Emma Lewell
Steve Witherden
Sean Woodcock
Ann Davies
Claire Hanna
Ben Lake
Dawn Butler
Llinos Medi
Ian Byrne
Rosie Duffield
19 REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026

. Clause 11, page 10, line 8, at end insert “, or
“(c) in furtherance of the privileges of either House of Parliament.”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is connected to Amendments 13 to 16 and 18. It provides that the offence of
misleading the public does not apply to any act done in furtherance of the privileges of either House
of Parliament.
_Gov_41 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 11, page 10, line 10, after “conviction” insert “in England and Wales”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on amendments 40 and 70.
_Gov_42 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 11, page 10, line 11, at end insert—
“(aa) on summary conviction in Scotland, to imprisonment for a term not
exceeding 12 months or a fine not exceeding the statutory maximum
(or both);
(ab) on summary conviction in Northern Ireland, to imprisonment for a term
not exceeding six months or a fine not exceeding the statutory maximum
(or both);”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment provides for penalties for offences under clause 11 committed in Scotland or
Northern Ireland, in consequence of amendments 40 and 70.
_19 Dr Kieran Mullan
. Clause 11, page 10, line 23, at end insert—
“(7A) A prosecution for an offence under this section shall not be instituted except
by or with the consent of the Attorney General.”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment requires the Attorney General to consent to the prosecution of anyone for the
offence of misleading the public.
REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026 20

_18 Luke Myer
Dr Ellie Chowns
Carla Denyer
Siân Berry
Neil Duncan-Jordan
Vikki Slade
Dr Simon Opher
Liz Saville Roberts
Mr Jonathan Brash
Emma Lewell
Steve Witherden
Sean Woodcock
Ann Davies
Claire Hanna
Ben Lake
Dawn Butler
Llinos Medi
Ian Byrne
Rosie Duffield
. Clause 11, page 10, line 37, at end insert—
“(8A) A certificate signed by the appropriate authority (as defined in section 34 of
the Freedom of Information Act 2000) certifying that an act is done in
furtherance of the privileges of either House of Parliament shall be conclusive
evidence of that fact.”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is connected to Amendments 13 to 17.
_Gov_43 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 12, page 11, line 22, after “must” insert “be directed to”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendments clarifies that a jury must be directed to have regard to certain matters when
considering whether an act is seriously improper for the purposes of the offence under clause 12.
_Gov_44 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 12, page 12, line 4, after “section” insert “—
(a) in England and Wales,”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on the extension of Part 3 of the Bill (misconduct in public office)
to Northern Ireland.
_Gov_45 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 12, page 12, line 5, at end insert—
“(b) in Northern Ireland, may be brought only by or with the consent of the
Director of Public Prosecutions for Northern Ireland.”
21 REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026

Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on the extension of Part 3 of the Bill (misconduct in public office)
to Northern Ireland.
_Gov_46 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 13, page 12, line 24, after “section” insert “—
(a) in England and Wales,”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on the extension of Part 3 of the Bill (misconduct in public office)
to Northern Ireland.
_Gov_47 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 13, page 12, line 25, at end insert—
“(b) in Northern Ireland, may be brought only by or with the consent of the
Director of Public Prosecutions for Northern Ireland.”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on the extension of Part 3 of the Bill (misconduct in public office)
to Northern Ireland.
_Gov_48 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 13, page 12, line 28, leave out subsection (7) and insert—
“(7) In this section—
“critical harm” means death or serious injury;
“serious injury” means—
(a) in England and Wales and Northern Ireland, grievous
bodily harm within the meaning of the Offences against
the Person Act 1861;
(b) in Scotland, severe injury (including psychological injury).”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on the extension of Part 3 of the Bill (misconduct in public office)
to Scotland and Northern Ireland.
_Gov_49 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 14, page 12, line 33, leave out subsection (1)
REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026 22

Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on the extension of Part 3 of the Bill (misconduct in public office)
to Scotland and Northern Ireland.
_Gov_50 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 14, page 13, line 2, leave out “England and Wales” and insert “the United Kingdom”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on the extension of Part 3 of the Bill (misconduct in public office)
to Scotland and Northern Ireland.
_Gov_51 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 14, page 13, line 2, at end insert—
“(3) Where an offence under section 12 or 13 is committed outside the United
Kingdom—
(a) proceedings for the offence may be taken at any place in the United
Kingdom, and
(b) the offence may for all incidental purposes be treated as committed at
any such place.
(4) In the application of subsection (3) to Scotland, any such proceedings against
the person may be taken—
(a) in any sheriff court district in which the person is apprehended or is in
custody, or
(b) in such sheriff court district as the Lord Advocate may determine.
(5) In subsection (4) “sheriff court district” is to be read in accordance with the
Criminal Procedure (Scotland) Act 1995 (see section 307(1) of that Act).”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on the extension of Part 3 of the Bill (misconduct in public office)
to Scotland and Northern Ireland.
_12 Jess Brown-Fuller
Tessa Munt
Tom Morrison
Max Wilkinson
Marie Goldman
Mr Will Forster
Sorcha EastwoodVikki SladeLiz Jarvis
Claire Hanna
23 REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026

. Clause 15, page 13, line 7, at end insert—
“(2A) References in this Part to a person who “holds public office” include references
to an individual who was, but is no longer, such an office holder, in respect of
conduct occurring while they held such office.”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment would ensure that public officials would still be liable for misconduct during their
time in public office if they resign or retire.
_Gov_52 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 15, page 13, line 8, leave out “Secretary of State” and insert “appropriate national
authority”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on the extension of Part 3 of the Bill (misconduct in public office)
to Scotland and Northern Ireland.
_Gov_53 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 15, page 13, line 11, leave out from beginning to end of line 20
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on the extension of Part 3 of the Bill (misconduct in public office)
to Scotland and Northern Ireland.
_Gov_54 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 15, page 13, line 21, leave out “or (4)”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on the extension of Part 3 of the Bill (misconduct in public office)
to Scotland and Northern Ireland.
_Gov_55 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 16, page 13, line 23, leave out “common law offence of misconduct in public office”
and insert “offence of misconduct in public office under the common law of England and
Wales”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on NC9.
REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026 24

_Gov_56 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 16, page 13, line 30, leave out “common law”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on NC9.
_Gov_57 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 16, page 13, line 31, after “office” insert “under the common law of England and
Wales”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on NC9.
_Gov_58 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 18, page 14, line 35, leave out from “members” to end of line 36 and insert “where
a public authority is, or is represented by, an interested person at an inquest or a participant
in a Scottish inquiry.”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on Amendment 142.
_Gov_59 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 18, page 14, leave out lines 38 and 39 and insert—
““inquest” means an inquest held under Part 1 of the Coroners and Justice Act
2009 (and the reference to an “interested person” at such an inquest has the
same meaning as in that Part of that Act);”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on Amendment 142.
_Gov_60 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 18, page 14, line 43, at end insert—
““Scottish inquiry” means an inquiry held under the Inquiries into Fatal Accidents
and Sudden Deaths etc. (Scotland) Act 2016 (asp 2) (and the reference to a
participant at such an inquiry is to be read in accordance with section 11(2)(b)
of that Act);”
25 REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026

Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on Amendment 142.
_Gov_61 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 22, page 16, line 32, leave out paragraph (b)
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment, together with amendments 62, 63, 64, 93 and 94, make technical changes in relation
to Welsh statutory instruments that are consequential on the commencement of section 1 of the
Legislation (Procedure, Publication and Repeals) (Wales) Act 2025.
_Gov_62 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 22, page 16, line 33, at end insert—
“(4A) Regulations under this Act made by the Welsh Ministers are to be made by
Welsh statutory instrument.”
Member's explanatory statement
See the explanatory statement for Amendment 61.
_Gov_63 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 22, page 17, line 9, leave out from “procedure,” to end of line 11 and insert “they are
subject to the Senedd annulment procedure (see section 37E of the Legislation (Wales) Act
2019 (anaw 4));”
Member's explanatory statement
See the explanatory statement for Amendment 61.
_Gov_64 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 22, page 17, line 12, leave out from “procedure,” to end of line 14 and insert “they
are subject to the Senedd approval procedure (see section 37C of that Act).”
Member's explanatory statement
See the explanatory statement for Amendment 61.
REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026 26

_Gov_65 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 23, page 18, line 16, at end insert “, and
(b) a children’s hearing within the meaning of the Children’s Hearings
(Scotland) Act 2011 (asp 1) arranged by virtue of, or for the purposes
of, that Act or any other enactment;”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment provides that the definition of “court” includes a children’s hearing within the
meaning of the Children’s Hearings (Scotland) Act 2011, in addition to any tribunal or body exercising
the judicial power of the State.
_Gov_66 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 23, page 19, line 31, at end insert “, or
(iv) Healthcare Improvement Scotland established under section 10A
of that Act;”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment provides that Healthcare Improvement Scotland will come within the definition of
an “NHS body”.
_Gov_67 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 23, page 20, line 28, leave out “maintained school” and insert “school maintained by
a local authority”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment ensures that the definition of “school” includes maintained nursery schools and
pupil referral units.
_Gov_68 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 23, page 20, line 29, leave out “20(7)” and insert “142(1)”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on Amendment 67.
_Gov_69 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 23, page 20, line 31, leave out from “Academy” to end of line 32 and insert “school
or an alternative provision Academy”
27 REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026

Member's explanatory statement
This amendment provides that alternative provision Academies are included within the definition
of a “school” in relation to England.
_11 Jess Brown-Fuller
Tessa Munt
Tom Morrison
Max Wilkinson
Marie Goldman
Mr Will Forster
Sorcha EastwoodVikki SladeLiz Jarvis
Claire Hanna
. Clause 23, page 22, line 20, at end insert—
“(6) For the purposes of this Act, any duty or liability imposed on a public official
or a person holding public office applies in respect of any act or omission
occurring while the person held that office or performed those functions,
notwithstanding that the person has subsequently resigned, retired, or
otherwise ceased to hold that office or perform those functions.”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment would ensure that the duties and liabilities in this Bill apply to public officials during
their time in public office even if they have since resigned, retired or ceased to hold a public office.
_Gov_70 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 24, page 22, line 23, leave out “Part 1, Chapters 1 and 2 of Part 2” and insert “Parts 1
to 3”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment provides for clause 11 (offence of misleading the public) and Part 3 (misconduct in
public office) to apply and extend to all parts of the United Kingdom.
_Gov_71 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 24, page 22, line 25, leave out paragraph (b) and insert—
“(b) Part 4 extends to England and Wales and Scotland only.”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on Amendment 70 and also on the provision made by Amendment
142 about legal aid for bereaved family members in Scotland where a public authority is a participant
in an inquiry into a death.
REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026 28

_9 Jess Brown-Fuller
Tessa Munt
Tom Morrison
Max Wilkinson
Marie Goldman
Mr Will Forster
Sorcha EastwoodVikki SladeLiz Jarvis
Claire Hanna
. Clause 25, page 22, line 30, leave out subsections (1) to (8) and insert—
“This Act shall come into force on Royal Assent, save for sections 9, 10 and 18,
which will come into force six months thereafter.”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment clarifies that the Act should come into force straightaway except for those sections
which require the provision of codes or guidance.
_Gov_72 Secretary David Lammy
. Clause 25, page 23, line 5, after “Schedule 1” insert “or Part 5 of Schedule 6”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on Amendment 142.
_Gov_73 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 1, page 25, leave out lines 23 to 29 and insert—
“(10) A compliance direction requiring the provision of security or intelligence
information from a public official—
(a) may be given—
(i) only to a public official who is working for an intelligence service
at the time the direction is given, and
(ii) only after the chair of the inquiry has consulted the head of that
service about the obligations imposed by virtue of the direction;
(b) must include a description of the matters or issues to be covered in
complying with the direction,
and a person is not required to provide any such information in response to a
direction given otherwise than in compliance with this subsection.”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment, together with Amendment 147, enables a compliance direction to be given requiring
the provision of security or intelligence information to a public official who works for an intelligence
service (subject to consultation and consent requirements) in place of the previous prohibition on
the giving of such directions.
29 REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026

_24 Ian Byrne
Jess Brown-Fuller
Anneliese Midgley
Paula Barker
Kim Johnson
Tessa Munt
Marie GoldmanMax WilkinsonTom Morrison
Sorcha EastwoodColum EastwoodMr Will Forster
Imran HussainEmma LewellRichard Burgon
Chris HinchliffMary Kelly FoyClive Efford
Clive LewisLorraine BeaversJohn McDonnell
Bell Ribeiro-AddyLee BarronAndy McDonald
Apsana BegumBrian LeishmanMs Diane Abbott
Rachael MaskellNadia WhittomeRebecca Long Bailey
Kate OsborneIan LaveryGrahame Morris
Andrew GwynneVicky FoxcroftJeremy Corbyn
Neil Duncan-JordanCharlotte NicholsKate Osamor
Cat EcclesLouise HaighMargaret Mullane
Zarah SultanaClaire HannaMarsha De Cordova
Liz Saville RobertsMs Marie RimmerBarry Gardiner
Llinos MediBen LakeAnn Davies
Adrian RamsayCarla DenyerSiân Berry
Ms Stella CreasySteve WitherdenDr Ellie Chowns
. Schedule 1, page 25, line 23, leave out from “direction” to the end of the sub-paragraph and
insert “requiring the provision of information relating to security or intelligence must—
(a) specify that the information and assistance should be provided in
accordance with the process set out in section 6 (3A) to (3E) of the Public
Office (Accountability) Act 2026, and
(b) include a description of the matters or issues to be covered in complying
with the direction,
and a public official is not required to provide any such information in response
to a direction given otherwise than in compliance with this subsection.”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment would allow a compliance direction to be given to a public official regarding the
provision of information relating to security or intelligence and specifies what the direction must
include.
_Gov_74 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 1, page 25, line 37, at end insert “and “head” (in relation to an intelligence service)”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on Amendment 73.
REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026 30

_Gov_75 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 1, page 25, line 39, at end insert—
““security or intelligence information”;”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on Amendment 73.
_Gov_76 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 1, page 27, line 32, leave out “(1) and (2)”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment applies section 17(3) of the Inquiries Act 2005 (duty on chair to act with fairness
and avoid unnecessary cost) to non-statutory inquiries to which the duty of candour and assistance
applies.
_Gov_77 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 1, page 28, line 38, leave out sub-paragraph (11) and insert—
“(11) A compliance direction requiring the provision of security or intelligence
information from a public official—
(a) may be given—
(i) only to a public official who is working for an intelligence
service at the time the direction is given, and
(ii) only after the chair of the inquiry has consulted the head of
that service about the obligations imposed by virtue of the
direction;
(b) must include a description of the matters or issues to be covered in
complying with the direction,
and a person is not required to provide any such information in response to
a direction given otherwise than in compliance with this sub-paragraph.”
Member's explanatory statement
See the explanatory statement to Amendment 73.
_143 Ian Byrne
Jess Brown-Fuller
Anneliese Midgley
Paula Barker
Kim Johnson
Colum Eastwood
Emma LewellRichard BurgonSorcha Eastwood
Mary Kelly FoyClive EffordImran Hussain
Lorraine BeaversJohn McDonnellChris Hinchliff
31 REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026

Lee BarronAndy McDonaldClive Lewis
Brian LeishmanMs Diane AbbottBell Ribeiro-Addy
Nadia WhittomeRebecca Long BaileyApsana Begum
Ian LaveryGrahame MorrisRachael Maskell
Vicky FoxcroftJeremy CorbynKate Osborne
Charlotte NicholsKate OsamorAndrew Gwynne
Louise HaighMargaret MullaneNeil Duncan-Jordan
Claire HannaMarsha De CordovaCat Eccles
Carla DenyerSiân BerryZarah Sultana
Barry GardinerDr Ellie ChownsAdrian Ramsay
Ann DaviesLiz Saville RobertsMs Marie Rimmer
Steve WitherdenLlinos MediBen Lake
Ms Stella Creasy
. Schedule 1, page 28, line 38, leave out from “direction” to the end of the sub-paragraph and
insert “requiring the provision of information relating to security or intelligence must—
(a) specify that the information and assistance should be provided in
accordance with the process set out in section 6 (3A) to (3E) of the Public
Office (Accountability) Act 2026, and
(b) include a description of the matters or issues to be covered in complying
with the direction,
and a public official is not required to provide any such information in response
to a direction given otherwise than in compliance with this subsection.”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment would allow a compliance direction to be given to a public official regarding the
provision of information relating to security or intelligence and specifies what the direction must
include.
_10 Yasmin Qureshi
Ian Byrne
Kerry McCarthy
Ed Davey
Perran Moon
Esther McVey
Kim Johnson
Ian Roome
Josh Dean
Maria Eagle
Zarah Sultana
Daisy Cooper
Marie Goldman
Neil Duncan-Jordan
Claire Hanna
. Schedule 1, page 29, line 9, after “an inquiry” insert “, independent panel or review established
by a Minister”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment ensures that the statutory duty of candour and assistance extends automatically
to independent panels and reviews established by Ministers of the Crown.
_146 Tessa Munt
. Schedule 1, page 29, line 9, after “an inquiry” insert “, independent panel, review established
by a Minister, or independent panel or review established by a local authority.”
REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026 32

Member's explanatory statement
This amendment ensures that the statutory duty of candour and assistance extends automatically
to independent panels and reviews established by Ministers of the Crown and by local authorities.
_Gov_78 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 1, page 30, line 40, leave out “sub-paragraph (11)” and insert “sub-paragraphs (11)
and (11A)”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on Amendment 81.
_Gov_79 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 1, page 31, line 38, leave out “(1) and (2)”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment applies section 17(3) of the Inquiries Act 2005 (duty on chair to act with fairness
and avoid unnecessary cost) to local authority inquiries to which the duty of candour and assistance
applies.
_Gov_80 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 1, page 32, line 33, leave out paragraph (c)
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on Amendment 81.
_144 Ian Byrne
Jess Brown-Fuller
Anneliese Midgley
Paula Barker
Kim Johnson
Colum Eastwood
Emma LewellRichard BurgonSorcha Eastwood
Mary Kelly FoyClive EffordImran Hussain
Lorraine BeaversJohn McDonnellChris Hinchliff
Lee BarronAndy McDonaldClive Lewis
Brian LeishmanMs Diane AbbottBell Ribeiro-Addy
Nadia WhittomeRebecca Long BaileyApsana Begum
Ian LaveryGrahame MorrisRachael Maskell
Vicky FoxcroftJeremy CorbynKate Osborne
Charlotte NicholsKate OsamorAndrew Gwynne
Louise HaighMargaret MullaneNeil Duncan-Jordan
Claire HannaMarsha De CordovaCat Eccles
Carla DenyerSiân BerryZarah Sultana
Barry GardinerDr Ellie ChownsAdrian Ramsay
33 REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026

Ann DaviesLiz Saville RobertsMs Marie Rimmer
Steve WitherdenLlinos MediBen Lake
Ms Stella Creasy
. Schedule 1, page 32, line 33, leave out paragraph (c) and insert—
(c) requiring the provision of information relating to security or intelligence
must—
(i) specify that the information and assistance should be provided
in accordance with the process set out in section 6 (3A) to (3E)
of the Public Office (Accountability) Act 2026, and
(ii) include a description of the matters or issues to be covered in
complying with the direction,
and a public official is not required to provide any such information in
response to a direction given otherwise than in compliance with this
subsection.”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment would allow a compliance direction to be given to a public official regarding the
provision of information relating to security or intelligence and specifies what the direction must
include.
_Gov_81 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 1, page 32, line 39, at end insert—
“(11A) A compliance direction requiring the provision of security or intelligence
information from a public official—
(a) may be given—
(i) only to a public official who is working for an intelligence
service at the time the direction is given, and
(ii) only after the chair of the inquiry has consulted the head of
that service about the obligations imposed by virtue of the
direction;
(b) must include a description of the matters or issues to be covered in
complying with the direction,
and a person is not required to provide any such information in response to
a direction given otherwise than in compliance with this sub-paragraph.”
Member's explanatory statement
See the explanatory statement to Amendment 73.
_Gov_82 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 1, page 34, leave out from beginning of line 43 to end of line 6 on page 35 and
insert—
“(9) A compliance direction requiring the provision of security or intelligence
information from a public official—
REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026 34

(a) may be given—
(i) only to a public official who is working for an intelligence
service at the time the direction is given, and
(ii) only after the senior coroner conducting the investigation has
consulted the head of that service about the obligations
imposed by virtue of the direction;
(b) must include a description of the matters or issues to be covered in
complying with the direction,
and a person is not required to provide any such information in response to
a direction given otherwise than in compliance with this sub-paragraph.”
Member's explanatory statement
See the explanatory statement to Amendment 73.
_145 Ian Byrne
Jess Brown-Fuller
Anneliese Midgley
Paula Barker
Kim Johnson
Colum Eastwood
Emma LewellRichard BurgonSorcha Eastwood
Mary Kelly FoyClive EffordImran Hussain
Lorraine BeaversJohn McDonnellChris Hinchliff
Lee BarronAndy McDonaldClive Lewis
Brian LeishmanMs Diane AbbottBell Ribeiro-Addy
Nadia WhittomeRebecca Long BaileyApsana Begum
Ian LaveryGrahame MorrisRachael Maskell
Vicky FoxcroftJeremy CorbynKate Osborne
Charlotte NicholsKate OsamorAndrew Gwynne
Louise HaighMargaret MullaneNeil Duncan-Jordan
Claire HannaMarsha De CordovaCat Eccles
Carla DenyerSiân BerryZarah Sultana
Barry GardinerDr Ellie ChownsAdrian Ramsay
Ann DaviesLiz Saville RobertsMs Marie Rimmer
Steve WitherdenLlinos MediBen Lake
Ms Stella Creasy
. Schedule 1, page 34, line 43, leave out from “direction” to the end of the sub-paragraph and
insert “requiring the provision of information relating to security or intelligence must—
(a) specify that the information and assistance should be provided in
accordance with the process set out in section 6 (3A) to (3E) of the Public
Office (Accountability) Act 2026, and
(b) include a description of the matters or issues to be covered in complying
with the direction,
and a public official is not required to provide any such information in response
to a direction given otherwise than in compliance with this subsection.”
35 REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026

Member's explanatory statement
This amendment would allow a compliance direction to be given to a public official regarding the
provision of information relating to security or intelligence and specifies what the direction must
include.
_Gov_83 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 1, page 35, line 15, at end insert “and “head” (in relation to an intelligence service)”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on Amendment 82.
_Gov_84 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 1, page 35, line 17, at end insert—
““security or intelligence information”;”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on Amendment 82.
_Gov_85 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 1, page 37, leave out lines 25 to 31 and insert—
“(13) A compliance direction requiring the provision of security or intelligence
information from a public official—
(a) may be given—
(i) only to a public official who is working for an intelligence service
at the time the direction is given, and
(ii) only after the procurator fiscal has consulted the head of that
service about the obligations imposed by virtue of the direction;
(b) must include a description of the matters or issues to be covered in
complying with the direction,
and a person is not required to provide any such information in response to a
direction given otherwise than in compliance with this subsection.”
Member's explanatory statement
See the explanatory statement to Amendment 73.
_Gov_86 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 1, page 37, line 39, at end insert “and “head” (in relation to an intelligence service)”
REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026 36

Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on Amendment 85.
_Gov_87 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 1, page 37, line 41, at end insert—
““security or intelligence information”;”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on Amendment 85.
_Gov_88 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 1, page 40, leave out lines 1 to 7 and insert—
“(9) A compliance direction requiring the provision of security or intelligence
information from a public official—
(a) may be given—
(i) only to a public official who is working for an intelligence service
at the time the direction is given, and
(ii) only after the coroner has consulted the head of that service
about the obligations imposed by virtue of the direction;
(b) must include a description of the matters or issues to be covered in
complying with the direction,
and a person is not required to provide any such information in response to a
direction given otherwise than in compliance with this subsection.”
Member's explanatory statement
See the explanatory statement to Amendment 73.
_Gov_89 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 1, page 40, line 16, at end insert “and “head” (in relation to an intelligence service)”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on Amendment 88.
_Gov_90 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 1, page 40, line 18, at end insert—
““security or intelligence information”;”
37 REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026

Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on Amendment 88.
_Gov_91 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 1, page 41, line 24, leave out paragraph (c)
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on Amendment 92.
_Gov_92 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 1, page 41, line 38, at end insert—
“(5A) Subsection (10) of section 23A of the Inquiries Act 2005 (which provides for
safeguards in the case of compliance directions requiring security or
intelligence information from public officials) (as inserted by Part 1 of this
Schedule) applies to a compliance direction given by virtue of regulations
under this paragraph as it applies to a compliance direction given under
that section (taking the reference to the chair of the inquiry as a reference
to the person leading the investigation in question).”
Member's explanatory statement
See the explanatory statement to Amendment 73.
_Gov_93 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 1, page 42, line 42, leave out paragraphs (a) and (b) and insert—
“(a) they are subject to the Senedd confirmation procedure (see section 37D
of the Legislation (Wales) Act 2019 (anaw 4)), and
(b) they cease to have effect at the end of the period of 40 days beginning
with the day on which the Welsh statutory instrument containing them
is made unless, during that period, they are confirmed by a resolution
of Senedd Cymru.”
Member's explanatory statement
See the explanatory statement for Amendment 61.
_Gov_94 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 1, page 43, line 31, leave out “this paragraph” and insert “sub-paragraph (2)(b),
(3)(c) or (5)(b)”
REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026 38

Member's explanatory statement
See the explanatory statement for Amendment 61.
_Gov_95 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 2, page 46, line 8, leave out “or (11)” and insert “, (11) or (11A)”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on Amendment 97.
_Gov_96 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 2, page 46, line 8, at end insert—
“(ca) being appointed as a member of the Children’s Panel in accordance
with section 4 of the Children’s Hearings (Scotland) Act 2011 (asp 1);”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment provides for an exclusion from the definition of “public official” for those appointed
as members of the Children’s Panel in Scotland.
_Gov_97 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 2, page 46, line 32, at end insert—
“(11A) This sub-paragraph applies if the local authority is a local authority in
Scotland and the individual is, in relation to the authority—
(a) a convener elected in accordance with section 4(1) of the Local
Government etc. (Scotland) Act 1994,
(b) a depute convener elected in accordance with section 4(2) of that
Act, or
(c) a councillor designated by the authority for purposes relating to the
payment of remuneration, in accordance with regulations made
under section 11 of the Local Governance (Scotland) Act 2004 (asp
9), as—
(i) the Leader of the Council,
(ii) the Civic Head, or
(iii) a senior councillor.”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment provides that certain elected officials of local authorities in Scotland will fall within
the definition of a “public official” and therefore be subject to the duty of candour and assistance.
39 REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026

_Gov_98 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 3, page 47, line 38, leave out from “Kingdom” to “unless” in line 2 of page 48
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on Amendments 40.
_Gov_99 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 3, page 48, line 7, after “5” insert “or 11”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on Amendments 40 and 70.
_Gov_100 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 3, page 48, line 21, after “5” insert “or 11”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on Amendments 40 and 70.
_Gov_101 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 3, page 48, line 26, leave out sub-paragraph (2)
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on Amendments 40 and 70.
_Gov_102 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 4, page 49, line 35, at end insert—
“1A A member of the Scottish government (see section 44 of the Scotland Act
1998) or a junior Scottish Minister (see section 49 of that Act).
1B A member of the Welsh Government (see section 45 of the Government of
Wales Act 2006).
1C A Minister or junior Minister within the meaning of the Northern Ireland
Act 1998 (see sections 7(3) and 19 of that Act).”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on the extension of Part 3 of the Bill (misconduct in public office)
to Scotland and Northern Ireland.
REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026 40

_Gov_103 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 4, page 49, line 36, leave out paragraph 2
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on the extension of Part 3 of the Bill (misconduct in public office)
to Scotland and Northern Ireland.
_Gov_104 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 4, page 50, line 4, leave out from “State” to end of line 10
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on the extension of Part 3 of the Bill (misconduct in public office)
to Scotland and Northern Ireland.
_Gov_105 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 4, page 50, line 11, leave out “The condition is that” and insert “A person does not
fall within sub-paragraph (1) if”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on the extension of Part 3 of the Bill (misconduct in public office)
to Scotland and Northern Ireland.
_Gov_106 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 4, page 50, line 16, at end insert—
“(aa) the Scottish Ministers,”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on the extension of Part 3 of the Bill (misconduct in public office)
to Scotland.
_Gov_107 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 4, page 50, line 17, at end insert—
“(c) a Northern Ireland devolved authority.”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on the extension of Part 3 of the Bill (misconduct in public office)
to Northern Ireland.
41 REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026

_Gov_108 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 4, page 50, line 23, at end insert—
“4A A member of the Scottish Parliament. (1)
(2) A member of the staff of the Scottish Parliament within the meaning of the
Scotland Act 1998 (see paragraph 3(2) of Schedule 2 to that Act).”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on the extension of Part 3 of the Bill (misconduct in public office)
to Scotland and Northern Ireland.
_Gov_109 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 4, page 50, line 26, at end insert—
“5A A member of the Northern Ireland Assembly. (1)
(2) A member of the staff of the Northern Ireland Assembly within the meaning
of the Northern Ireland Act 1998 (see paragraph 2(2) of Schedule 5 to that
Act).”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on the extension of Part 3 of the Bill (misconduct in public office)
to Scotland and Northern Ireland.
_Gov_110 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 4, page 50, line 33, after “body” insert “, within the meaning given by section 101
of the Police Act 1996”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on the extension of Part 3 of the Bill (misconduct in public office)
to Scotland and Northern Ireland.
_Gov_111 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 4, page 50, line 34, at end insert—
“7A A constable of the Police Service of Scotland, within the meaning of the
Police and Fire Reform (Scotland) Act 2012.
(1)
(2) A member of the police staff within the meaning of that Act.
7B A police officer, within the meaning of the Police (Northern Ireland) Act
2000 (see section 77(1) of that Act).
(1)
(2) A person who is a member of the police support staff, within the meaning
given by section 4(6) of that Act.
REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026 42

7C A person who is a member of or works for the Northern Ireland Policing
Board.”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on the extension of Part 3 of the Bill (misconduct in public office)
to Scotland and Northern Ireland.
_Gov_112 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 4, page 51, line 28, at end insert—
“(3) A person appointed under section 79 of the Harbours, Docks and Piers Clauses
Act 1847.
(4) A person appointed to be a constable under Article 19 of the Airports
(Northern Ireland) Order 1994 (S.I. 1994/426 (N.I. 1)).”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on the extension of Part 3 of the Bill (misconduct in public office)
to Scotland and Northern Ireland.
_Gov_113 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 4, page 51, line 33, at end insert—
“(1A) A member of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.
(1B) A member of the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service Board.”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on the extension of Part 3 of the Bill (misconduct in public office)
to Scotland and Northern Ireland.
_Gov_114 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 4, page 51, line 34, leave out “fire and rescue authority” and insert “body mentioned
in any of sub-paragraphs (1) to (1B)”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on the extension of Part 3 of the Bill (misconduct in public office)
to Scotland and Northern Ireland.
_Gov_115 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 4, page 51, line 37, after “exercises” insert “core”
43 REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026

Member's explanatory statement
This amendment, together with Amendment 117, clarifies that, in respect of persons exercising
functions at places of state detention, only persons who exercise custodial or escort functions, or
functions involving the provision of healthcare or education, are subject to the provisions of Part 3
of the Bill (misconduct in public office).
_Gov_116 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 4, page 51, line 37, leave out from “detention,” to end of line 39
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on the extension of Part 3 of the Bill (misconduct in public office)
to Scotland and Northern Ireland.
_Gov_117 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 4, page 51, line 39, at end insert—
“(2) In sub-paragraph (1), “core functions” means—
(a) custodial or escort functions, or
(b) functions involving the provision of healthcare or education, so far
as carried out at a place of state detention.
(3) Subject to sub-paragraph (4), a person is in state detention if the person is
compulsorily detained by a public authority within the meaning of section
6 of the Human Rights Act 1998.
(4) A person is not in state detention at any time when they are detained in
circumstances amounting to a deprivation of liberty by virtue of any of the
following—
(a) sections 4A(3) or (5) or 4B of the Mental Capacity Act 2005;
(b) the Adults with Incapacity (Scotland) Act 2000 (asp 4);
(c) Part 2 of the Mental Capacity Act (Northern Ireland) 2016 (c. 18
(N.I.)).”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on Amendment 115 and on the extension of Part 3 of the Bill
(misconduct in public office) to Scotland and Northern Ireland.
_Gov_118 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 4, page 52, line 2, at end insert—
“(2) A member of the Parole Board for Scotland.
(3) A Parole Commissioner for Northern Ireland.”
REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026 44

Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on the extension of Part 3 of the Bill (misconduct in public office)
to Scotland and Northern Ireland.
_Gov_119 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 4, page 52, line 3, leave out paragraph 16 and insert—
“16 A member of an independent monitoring board, appointed under section
6 of the Prison Act 1952 or section 10 of the Prison Act (Northern Ireland)
1953 (c. 18 (N.I.)).
(1)
(2) A member of a Visiting Committee, appointed under section 152 of the
Immigration and Asylum Act 1999.
(3) A prison monitoring co-ordinator appointed under section 7A of the Prisons
(Scotland) Act 1989 or prison monitor appointed under section 7C of that
Act.
(4) A person approved under Rule 14 of the Juvenile Justice Centre Rules
(Northern Ireland) 2008 (S.R. (N.I.) 2008 No. 427).”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on the extension of Part 3 of the Bill (misconduct in public office)
to Scotland and Northern Ireland.
_Gov_120 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 4, page 52, line 10, leave out sub-paragraph (1)
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on Amendment 121.
_Gov_121 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 4, page 52, line 11, leave out from “person” to “is” in line 12 and insert “who”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on Amendment 123.
_Gov_122 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 4, page 52, line 13, at end insert—
“(aa) the Lord Chief Justice of England and Wales;”
45 REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026

Member's explanatory statement
This amendment adds the Lord Chief Justice of England and Wales to the list of holders of public
office for the purposes of Part 3 of the Bill.
_Gov_123 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 4, page 52, line 17, at end insert—
“(ca) the Lord President or Lord Justice Clerk of the Court of Session;
(cb) a judicial office holder, within the meaning of Part 2 of the Judiciary
and Courts (Scotland) Act 2008 (asp 6) (see section 43 of that Act);
(cc) a member of the Scottish Tribunals, within the meaning of the Tribunals
(Scotland) Act 2014 (see section 13(3) of that Act);
(cd) a member of the Children’s Panel appointed in accordance with section
4 of the Children’s Hearings (Scotland) Act 2011 (asp 1);
(ce) a member of the Lands Tribunal for Scotland or Scottish Land Court
(including the Deputy Chairman of that Court);
(cf) the President of, or a member of, the Mental Health Tribunal for
Scotland;
(cg) the Lord Chief Justice of Northern Ireland;
(ch) a Lord Justice of Appeal in Northern Ireland;
(ci) the holder of an office mentioned in Schedule 1 to the Justice (Northern
Ireland) Act 2002;
(cj) the Chief Coroner or a Deputy Chief Coroner appointed under Schedule
8 to the Coroners and Justice Act 2009;
(ck) a senior coroner, area coroner or assistant coroner appointed under
Schedule 3 to that Act.”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on the extension of Part 3 of the Bill (misconduct in public office)
to Scotland and Northern Ireland and also makes drafting refinements.
_Gov_124 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 4, page 52, line 20, at end insert—
“(f) any other member of a court or tribunal in which legal proceedings
may be brought.”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment ensures that persons exercising judicial functions are subject to the misconduct
offences in Part 3 of the Bill even if the office they hold is not specifically mentioned.
REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026 46

_Gov_125 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 4, page 52, line 20, at end insert—
“(3) Any other person (other than a person employed in the civil service of the
State) who—
(a) works for a person within sub-paragraph (2) in relation to the exercise
of that person’s judicial functions, or
(b) works for a court or tribunal in which legal proceedings may be
brought in relation to the exercise of the judicial functions of that
court or tribunal.”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment ensures the persons who work for a judicial office holder or court (other than civil
servants, who are caught by paragraph 3 of Schedule 4 to the Bill) are subject to the misconduct
offences in Part 3 of the Bill.
_Gov_126 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 4, page 52, line 21, leave out paragraph 18
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on Amendment 123.
_Gov_127 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 4, page 52, line 29, leave out from “authority” to end of line 31
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on the extension of Part 3 of the Bill (misconduct in public office)
to Scotland and Northern Ireland.
_Gov_128 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 4, page 52, line 32, leave out “in England”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on the extension of Part 3 of the Bill (misconduct in public office)
to Scotland and Northern Ireland.
_Gov_129 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 4, page 52, line 32, at end insert—
“(2A) Sub-paragraph (1) includes—
47 REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026

(a) in relation to a London borough council, a district council or a county
council in England, an elected mayor within the meaning of Part 1A
of the Local Government Act 2000;
(b) in relation to a county borough council or a county council in Wales,
an elected mayor within the meaning of Part 2 of the Local
Government Act 2000.”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on the extension of Part 3 of the Bill (misconduct in public office)
to Scotland and Northern Ireland.
_Gov_130 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 4, page 52, line 34, leave out from “school” to end of line 3 on page 53
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on the extension of Part 3 of the Bill (misconduct in public office)
to Scotland and Northern Ireland.
_Gov_131 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 4, page 52, line 35, at end insert—
“(4) The reference in sub-paragraph (3) to a person who works for a school
includes a person who works—
(a) at a place mentioned in any of paragraphs (a) to (c) of the definition
of “school” in section 23(1), or
(b) at a public school in Scotland within the meaning of the Education
(Scotland) Act 1980 (see section 135(1) of that Act).”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on the extension of Part 3 of the Bill (misconduct in public office)
to Scotland and Northern Ireland.
_Gov_132 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 4, page 53, line 18, leave out “or” and insert “, the Scottish Ministers,”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on the extension of Part 3 of the Bill (misconduct in public office)
to Scotland.
_Gov_133 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 4, page 53, line 18, at end insert “or a Northern Ireland devolved authority”
REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026 48

Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on the extension of Part 3 of the Bill (misconduct in public office)
to Northern Ireland.
_Gov_134 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 5, page 54, line 18, leave out “in subsection (11), omit “England and Wales or””
and insert “omit subsection (11)”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on NC9.
_Gov_135 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 5, page 54, line 19, at end insert—
“Investigatory Powers Act 2016
4 In section 1 (overview of Act), omit subsection (5)(b)(v).”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on NC9.
_Gov_136 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 6, page 60, line 38, after “authority” insert “or any of the following persons”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment and Amendment 137 provide for Part 4 of the Bill to apply in relation to inquests
where a public authority is represented by its head or another person, if the authority is not itself
an “interested person” at the inquest.
_Gov_137 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 6, page 60, line 39, at end insert—
“(a) a chief constable;
(b) a Provost Marshal of a service police force or the tri-service serious crime
unit;
(c) the Director General of the Independent Office for Police Conduct;
(d) a person who is an interested person by virtue of section 47(2)(l) of the
Coroners and Justice Act 2009 Act (persons appointed by a Government
department).”
Member's explanatory statement
See the explanatory statement for Amendment 136.
49 REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026

_Gov_138 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 6, page 61, line 20, at end insert—
““chief constable” means—
(a) a chief officer of police, within the meaning given by section 101(1) of
the Police Act 1996;
(b) the chief constable of the Police Service of Scotland;
(c) the Chief Constable of the Police Service of Northern Ireland;
(d) the Chief Constable of the Ministry of Defence Police;
(e) the Chief Constable of the Civil Nuclear Constabulary;
(f) the Chief Constable of the British Transport Police;”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is consequential on Amendments 136 and 137.
_Gov_139 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 6, page 62, line 4, leave out “who has made an application” and insert “to whom
the legal help may be provided”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment is to clarify the meaning of this amendment of legal aid regulations.
_Gov_140 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 6, page 62, line 10, leave out “omit the words after paragraph (c)” and insert “for
the words from “any” to the end of the regulation substitute “civil legal services other than—
(a) acting as a mediator or arbitrator, or
(b) issuing or conducting court proceedings.”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment enables the additional legal services being made available to bereaved family
members at inquests to be dealt with together for the purposes of administration of legal aid.
_Gov_141 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 6, page 62, line 21, at end insert—
“Exercise of other powers in relation to legal aid
7 Nothing in this Part of this Schedule affects—
(a) the powers conferred on the Lord Chancellor by section 9(2) of the
Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012 in
relation to Schedule 1 to that Act, or
REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026 50

(b) any other power of the Lord Chancellor to make orders or regulations
under Part 1 of that Act.”
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment makes clear that nothing in Part 4 of Schedule 6 to the Bill affects the exercise of
the Lord Chancellor’s powers to make orders and regulations about legal aid.
_Gov_142 Secretary David Lammy
. Schedule 6, page 62, line 21, at end insert—
“PART 5
LEGAL AID AT INQUIRIES IN SCOTLAND INTO FATAL ACCIDENTS AND SUDDEN DEATHS
Amendment of the Legal Aid (Scotland) Act 1986
7 The Legal Aid (Scotland) Act 1986 is amended as follows. (1)
(2) In section 36 (regulations), in subsection (3), after paragraph (bb) insert—
“(bc) is participating, or seeking to participate, in inquiry
proceedings within the meaning of the Inquiries into Fatal
Accidents and Sudden Deaths etc. (Scotland) Act 2016 (see
section 11(2)(a) of that Act);””
Member's explanatory statement
This amendment enables regulations to be made to extend legal aid to bereaved family members
where a public authority is a participant in an inquiry in Scotland into a fatal accident or sudden
death.
Order of the House
[3 November 2025]
That the following provisions shall apply to the Public Office (Accountability) Bill:
Committal
1. The Bill shall be committed to a Public Bill Committee.
Proceedings in Public Bill Committee
2. Proceedings in the Public Bill Committee shall (so far as not previously concluded)
be brought to a conclusion on Thursday 11 December 2025.
3. The Public Bill Committee shall have leave to sit twice on the first day on which it
meets.
51 REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026

Consideration and Third Reading
4. Proceedings on Consideration shall (so far as not previously concluded) be brought
to a conclusion one hour before the moment of interruption on the day on which
those proceedings are commenced.
5. Proceedings on Third Reading shall (so far as not previously concluded) be brought
to a conclusion at the moment of interruption on that day.
6. Standing Order No. 83B (Programming committees) shall not apply to proceedings
on Consideration and Third Reading.
Other proceedings
7. Any other proceedings on the Bill may be programmed.
Withdrawn Amendments
The following amendments were withdrawn on 14 January 2026:
31 and 34
REPORT STAGE Thursday 15 January 2026 52