Summary of Investigation – Scott Benton MP

Friday 28th April 2023

April 2023

Organisation or Person Investigated

Scott Benton MP (“Mr Benton”)

Matter(s) Investigated

Whether Mr Benton conducted unregistered consultant lobbying

Registrar’s Decision

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

Summary of Rationale for Decision

Based on Mr Benton’s unequivocal and complete written assurances, in response to detailed enquiries, he has not received payment or benefits in kind in return for lobbying. Under the Transparency of Lobbying, Non-Party Campaigning and Trade Union Administration Act 2014, consultant lobbying activities are in return for payment on behalf of a client.

Chronology

Date	Action
11/4/23	Formal letter from the Registrar to Mr Benton giving background on the requirement for registering and asking if his activities fall within the criteria to be registered.
11/4/23	Response from Mr Benton providing assurances that he has not received money for lobbying ministers.
18/4/23	Letter from the Registrar asking more detailed questions regarding the Betting and Gaming All-Party Parliamentary Group and statements reported in The Times article and video of 6 April.
19/4/23	Email from Mr Benton responding to all questions raised on 18 April
28/4/23	Letter from the Registrar concluding his investigation.

28 April 2023

Office of the Registrar of Consultant Lobbyists

office@orcl.gov.uk