Summary of Investigation – Bim Afolami MP

Published on: Thursday 18th May 2023

May 2023

Organisation or Person Investigated

Bim Afolami MP (“Mr Afolami”)

Matter(s) Investigated

Whether Mr Afolami conducted unregistered consultant lobbying

Registrar’s Decision

Based on assurances received, Mr Afolami has not conducted unregistered consultant lobbying activity.

Summary of Rationale for Decision

Although Mr Alofami failed to respond substantively to detailed questions, he provided unequivocal and complete written assurances that all payments were made to a non-VAT registered entity. Under the Transparency of Lobbying, Non-Party Campaigning and Trade Union Administration Act 2014, registration under the Value Added Tax Act 1994 is one of three conditions that define consultant lobbying.

Chronology

Date	Action
3 May	Article in the Guardian regarding Mr Afolami’s paid work for the Regulatory Reform Group.
4 May	Formal letter from the Registrar to Mr Afolami giving background on the requirement for registering and asking if his activities fall within the criteria to be registered with particular reference to, but not limited to, his work as Chair of the Regulatory Reform Group.
4 May	Email response from Mr Afolami stating he has not advocated on behalf of a company.

9 May	Letter from the Registrar asking detailed questions regarding his paid work and payments.
9 May	Email response, not answering the Registrar’s questions and referring to the Register for Financial Interests.
10 May	Letter from the Registrar expressing disappointment at Mr Afolami’s failure to respond substantively and requesting a considered response to the questions of 9 May.
10 May	Email response, not responding to the questions, other than confirming that payments were made to a non-VAT registered company.
18 May	Letter from the Registrar concluding the investigation.

18 May 2023

Office of the Registrar of Consultant Lobbyists

office@orcl.gov.uk