Government Grant Agreements: Guidance

Monday 8th February 2016 Written Statements

[The Minister for the Cabinet Office and Paymaster General (Matthew Hancock)]

Today I have announced a new policy to restrict inappropriate use of taxpayers’ money for lobbying purposes. From 1 May, or before where feasible, the following standard clause will now be applied to new and renewed grants.

“The following costs are not Eligible Expenditure:- Payments that support activity intended to influence or attempt to influence Parliament, Government or political parties, or attempting to influence the awarding or renewal of contracts and grants, or attempting to influence legislative or regulatory action”.

This clause will not prevent organisations from using their own privately-raised funds to campaign as they see fit. This will ensure that freedom of speech is protected, while stopping taxpayers’ money being diverted away from good causes.

Departments will engage with organisations most likely to be affected by the clause. Implementation guidelines are available at: www.gov.uk.

[HCWS517]