Conservative MP George Freeman has seen lobbying allegations dismissed. The Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards will not investigate him. This follows a self-referral over questions he asked in Parliament. Previously, a newspaper report made serious claims. It suggested a company helped draft his questions. Freeman then quickly referred himself for review. He maintained his actions were proper throughout.
Therefore, the Commissioner has now concluded its initial assessment. It found insufficient grounds for a formal investigation. Therefore, no “cash for questions” inquiry will proceed. Freeman expressed his delight with this outcome. He called the original claims completely unfounded. He stated the rules allow MPs to ask questions on public interest issues. This is true even if they have a financial interest in the topic.
Furthermore, the situation involved his advisory role with GHGSat. This company monitors greenhouse gas emissions using satellites. Freeman earned a monthly salary for this part-time work. After taking the job, he sought advice from the appointments watchdog. The watchdog advised him against personally lobbying the government. This is standard for former ministers.
The newspaper alleged email exchanges showed collaboration. It reported he asked the company for help with wording. He then intended to convert this into parliamentary language. Freeman’s register of interests listed this role correctly. He also declared his interest when asking relevant questions. He insists he fully followed all necessary rules and procedures.
The Conservative Party had declined to comment earlier. They stated it was inappropriate while inquiries were ongoing. Now the lobbying allegations have been dismissed, the matter is closed. Freeman is a former science minister. He served under both Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak. He now sits on a key parliamentary committee for science.
This outcome reinforces specific parliamentary rules. Members can advocate for sectors they know well. Crucially, they must always be transparent about their connections. Proper registration and declaration remain paramount. Ultimately, the lobbying allegations dismissed today provide clarity. They highlight the importance of following established procedures. For Freeman, this decision brings an unwelcome news story to an end.
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