The CIPR has no objection to the requirements of a statutory register providing that it is effective, practical, and does not interfere with the essential democratic role of lobbyists. It is our conclusion that whilst the idea of statutory registration in itself is not excessive, the proposed statutory register in Scotland – a proposed separate register from the rest of the UK, is undesirable. We also urge the Socttish Government not to undermine the existing regime of self-regulation in favour of statutory codes of conduct. The CIPR continues to work to ensure its members in the public affairs profession operate with the highest standards of professionalism and will continue to enforce our Code of Conduct to ensure that members lobbying in Scotland operate within the confines of professional practice. For more information, contact: Phil Morgan Director of Policy and Communication Chartered Institute of Public Relations 52-53 Russell Square London WC1B 4HP 020 7631 6926 philm@cipr.co.uk
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