Dyddiad | Date: 14 October 2022

Pwnc | Subject: Cross-Party Groups

Dear Manon, 

At its last meeting the Standards of Conduct Committee (the Committee) considered the responses to our consultation on Cross-Party Groups (CPGs as part of our inquiry into lobbying. In their response, the Labour Group noted that:

“In terms of the financial rules, the fact that CPGs are not considered to be a formal part of our work as Members can also cause some issues. This rule means that any travel or other CPG related expenditure by Members cannot be claimed from their allowances. As a result, Members may be deterred from fully engaging in some of the work of CPGs, such as travel to an external visit arranged by the group which might involve substantial travel or an overnight stay.”

The Group expressed concern about reduced transparency and the potential for reputational risk for Members and the Senedd Commission if CPGs become reliant on external funding for visits or overnight stays.

The Committee agreed to write to you in the first instance, to ascertain what consideration, if any, has been given to Members claiming travel and other costs arising from their attendance at CPG meetings and events.

Yours Sincerely,

Croesewir gohebiaeth yn Gymraeg neu Saesneg.

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