Photo credit: www.bbc.com
Controversy Surrounds Simon Hart’s Peerage Following Revelatory Book
Concerns have emerged regarding the appointment of Simon Hart, the former Welsh secretary, to the House of Lords, especially in light of his recent tell-all publication that details his experiences as the Conservative party’s chief whip.
Hart, who previously represented Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire as an MP, was included in the resignation honours list announced by former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. His book, characterized by its publisher as a candid exploration of life in Westminster, has drawn criticism from veteran Conservatives who argue that it compromises the trust inherent in political relationships by exposing private information.
In light of Hart’s disclosure in his book, titled Ungovernable: The Political Diaries of a Chief Whip, which recounts scandalous tales involving anonymous members of parliament, some politicians have expressed outrage. One anecdote recounts a scenario where an MP allegedly sought assistance from Hart after finding himself in a compromising situation.
As the debate over Hart’s peerage continues, it has been reported that the book was approved by the cabinet secretary, who deemed it compliant with the established “Radcliffe Rules,” designed to protect sensitive government information. However, prominent figures in the party, such as former defence minister Sir Alec Shelbrooke, have vocally condemned Hart’s actions. Shelbrooke described the publication as an “appalling” breach of confidentiality, arguing that it erodes faith in the whips’ office—a critical component of parliamentary operations.
He voiced grave concerns about the implications of such disclosures, stating, “If [MPs] don’t feel they can trust the whips, the system will break down in Parliament.” Shelbrooke highlighted the pressure many MPs face and the potential consequences of breaches in trust, emphasizing the negative impact on mental health that can arise from feeling isolated in difficult situations.
Trust in the Whips’ Office Called Into Question
Sir Alec also made it clear that he had reached out to the House of Lords Appointment Commission (HOLAC) prior to Hart’s likely confirmation, seeking to intervene on the grounds that Hart had violated the Nolan Principles, which set out ethical standards for public life. In his correspondence, he likened the breach of trust caused by Hart’s book to a hypothetical situation where a physician might disclose patient stories, ultimately damaging the relationship with their patients.
In support of the call for caution regarding Hart’s peerage, another senior Conservative who retired from politics echoed similar sentiments. The former MP lamented that the whips’ office, intended to provide a safe space for MPs to discuss personal issues, must now contend with the ramifications of its confidential matters being publicized.
A current Tory MP also voiced concern, describing colleagues’ reactions as one of “frank horror” at Hart’s actions. This sentiment reflects a broader unease within the party regarding the balancing act of maintaining trust in political discourse while navigating the personal challenges faced by parliamentarians.
Some Conservative members have expressed disappointment not only over Hart’s publication but also concerning the overall selection of individuals for the resignation honours list. Former immigration minister Kevin Foster criticized the list as being primarily composed of Sunak’s close associates, framing it as a “reward for failure” rather than a recognition of substantial achievements.
As discussions continue about Simon Hart’s future in the House of Lords, his publisher, Pan Macmillan, has opted not to comment, and inquiries directed to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak have yet to receive a response.
Source
www.bbc.com