MPs warned off 'tea room' advice

The commissioner advises, and investigates, MPs

The outgoing Parliamentary sleazebuster has urged MPs worried that they might be breaking rules not to rely on advice from colleagues over a cup of tea.

Sir Philip Mawer says among lessons learned is that MPs should contact the Registrar of Members' Interests with queries on "standards-related" issues.

She is "a better source of advice on such matters than the Members' tea room", he notes.

Standards Commissioner Sir Philip will retire in December after five years.

The House of Commons Commission has nominated Ministry of Justice director general John Lyon to succeed him.

'Timely advice'

In his annual report, Sir Philip said that lessons learned over nearly six years in the job was "the importance of members thinking ahead and seeking advice whenever a novel standards-related issue faces them".

Directing MPs towards the registrar, he adds: "Seeking timely advice from her can avoid a whole lot of future difficulty and the simple fact that a member has sought advice stands them in good stead if, in spite of the advice having been followed, a complaint still arises."

Sir Philip is stepping down after nearly six years

He also notes that as much clarity as possible should be sought when drawing up rules on allowances and the boundary "between what is and what is not acceptable behaviour".

Sir Philip took over the role in February 2002. Among his high-profile investigations have been ones involving David Blunkett and George Galloway.

'Wealth of experience'

He looks set to be replaced by John Lyon, currently head of legal and judicial services at the Ministry of Justice, who has been recommended by the House of Commons Commission.

The Commissioner for Standards advises MPs on conduct, investigates complaints and monitors the register of interests.

If approved by MPs in November, Mr Lyon would serve for a single term of five years and start work in the New Year.

Commission spokesman Nick Harvey MP said he was "chosen from a strong field and brings a wealth of experience to bear to this demanding job".