Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether his Department seeks references for candidates appointed to public positions which fall under the remit of the Commissioner for Public Appointments.

Applicants for public appointments are asked to provide details of two referees. The Governance Code on Public Appointments sets out that the Advisory Assessment Panel must satisfy itself that all candidates for appointment can meet the Seven Principles of Public Life and adhere to the Code of Conduct for board members of public bodies. In line with the Governance Code, candidates are asked to declare relevant interests and these are discussed at interview.