PRCA launches review of Public Affairs Code to ensure it reflects modern practices and instils public trust

• The Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA) has today announced it is conducting a review of the Public Affairs Code (PA Code)
• The PA Code has been in operation for more than a decade, but this is the first time a substantial review has taken place since the PA Code was adopted by the PRCA in 2018
• The public, members of the PRCA and all interested parties are invited to participate in the call for evidence which is open until 17^th January 2025

The standards governing how public affairs professionals conduct their business are to be reviewed to make sure they are fit for purpose and continue to be trusted by the public.

All PRCA members who carry out public affairs activities agree to be bound by the PA Code, which ensures their commitment to transparency, accountability, and integrity in the industry.

The PA Code is recognised by the statutory regulator, the Office of the Registrar of Consultant Lobbyists (ORCL).

The Code has been in place for more than a decade and today the PRCA, the largest trade association for public affairs professionals in the UK, is launching a wholesale review of the Code.

As a first step in this review, the PRCA is inviting responses to a Call for Evidence which is open until 17^th January 2025.

A full consultation on the revised Public Affairs Code will take place in Spring 2025.

This review is intended to ensure the Code remains relevant and effectively meets the needs of the evolving public affairs industry.

It comes at a time when standards and transparency of lobbying practices are under scrutiny.

Iain Christie, Chair of the PRCA Standards Committee said:

“We recognise that the Public Affairs Code impacts a diverse range of stakeholders, and we anticipate a variety of opinions on its contents. This is why we are adopting a two-stage consultation process to ensure all views are carefully considered.

“The revised Public Affairs Code will aim to be clearer and more straightforward, ensuring that members can easily adhere to its requirements. It will also allow the PRCA to better uphold professional standards and hold members accountable.”

Emily Fermor, Chair of the Public Affairs Professional Board, said:

“Ethical and transparent public affairs is an essential component of good, effective government and adds value to business and society.

“It is important that the most-widely recognised Code in the UK is fit-for-purpose, to reflect modern lobbying practices so that it meets the needs of the industry and instils public trust and confidence.

“I’m looking forward to working closely with the PRCA’s independently-led Standards Committee to advise and help shape the new Code”

The PRCA is committed to ensuring that the new Code fosters ethical and transparent conduct across the industry, providing clear guidelines for members while reinforcing the public’s trust.

The Call for Evidence marks the first step in this review, and the PRCA looks forward to hearing from all interested parties to help shape a modern and effective Public Affairs Code.

To contribute towards the call for evidence, please complete this consultation: Call for Evidence