Declared Interests of Members
The House of Assembly operates under a comprehensive Code of Conduct (Rule 88A and Schedule 1) that establishes ethical standards and transparency requirements for all elected representatives. The Code is built on seven core principles: Selflessness, Integrity, Objectivity, Accountability, Openness, Honesty, and Leadership.
All Members must submit written declarations of their private interests and those of their immediate family within 28 days of taking office. The declaration covers thirteen categories including:
- Financial interests: Real estate, shareholdings, cryptocurrency, partnerships, debts, and assets over XCD $10,000.
- Professional activities: Corporate offices, directorships, and organizational memberships
- Trusts and estates: Both regular and blind trusts, plus executor roles.
- Benefits received: Gifts over XCD $1,000 (or XCD $2,000 annually from same source) and sponsored travel, accommodation, or hospitality.
- Memberships: All organizational affiliations including unions, business groups, and clubs.
A Commissioner for Standards investigates complaints and can impose sanctions ranging from warnings to suspension. The Clerk maintains all declarations, publishes them online for public access, and requires updates within 28 days of any changes. Declarations are retained for seven years after a Member leaves office.
This framework ensures transparency and accountability by allowing the public to identify potential conflicts of interest that might influence parliamentary decisions, thereby safeguarding legislative integrity.