Summary of Investigation – Philip Davies MP

Published on: Friday 12th May 2023

May 2023

Organisation or Person Investigated

Philip Davies MP (“Mr Davies”)

Matter(s) Investigated

Whether Mr Davies conducted unregistered consultant lobbying

Registrar’s Decision

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

Summary of Rationale for Decision

Based on Mr Davies’ unequivocal and complete written assurances, he is not registered for VAT. 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
3/5/23	Article in The Guardian regarding a letter sent by Mr Davies to the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport on 23 February 2023
4/5/23	Formal letter from the Registrar to Mr Davies giving background on the requirement for registering and asking if his activities fall within the criteria for registration. In particular, but not limited to, representation for Les Ambassadeurs and for work for the National Pawnbroking Association.
4/5/23	Email response from Mr Davies stating he has not carried out paid lobbying.
9/5/23	Letter from the Registrar asking specific questions for a more detailed response.
9/5/23	Email response from Mr Davies answering all questions asked, including that he is not registered for VAT.
12/5/23	Letter from the Registrar concluding the investigation.

12 May 2023

Office of the Registrar of Consultant Lobbyists

office@orcl.gov.uk