Code of Conduct for Members of Parliament

Introduction

The New Zealand electorate expects members of Parliament to act ethically and with integrity. 
An MMP Parliament demands a standard of behaviour that allows all voices to be heard.
This Code of Conduct enables the public to be clear about the principles that define members’ activities and how these principles are interpreted and upheld.
 

Purpose of the code

The purpose of the Code of Conduct is to assist members in the discharge of their obligations to the House, to their constituents and the public.

Nothing in the Code of Conduct derogates from Standing Orders or Speakers' Rulings or any other official code of conduct or guidelines for members. This Code of Conduct supplements and supports other requirements.

I «Name» agree to uphold this Code of Conduct for Members of Parliament.

Signature: ____________________________________________

Date: _____________________________________________

The Code

Preamble

We, as members of the New Zealand House of Representatives, recognise that it is in our individual and collective interest to foster and sustain public confidence and trust in our integrity as individuals and in Parliament as an institution. To this end, we will be guided at all times by the public good and ensure that our actions and decisions are taken in the best interests of the public.

1 Working for the public good

We accept that we have a duty to act in the interests of the nation as a whole, the House, our constituents, and the public.

2 Showing respect for Parliament

We have a duty to show respect for the Speaker and the authority vested in the Office of Speaker by the Parliament.
We will show respect for other Members. We will behave in a manner that enhances the dignity and decorum of the House. We will debate the issues raised and refrain from personal attacks.
As representatives of the people, we will conduct ourselves in accordance with the provisions and spirit of this Code of Conduct and ensure that our conduct does not bring the integrity of our office or the New Zealand Parliament into disrepute.

3 Not accepting inducements

We will not solicit, accept or receive any fee, payment, retainer, reward or gift in return for promoting or voting on any bill, motion or question put to Parliament or its committees, or in return for using our position as a member.
4 Not advancing private interests

We will not use information received in confidence in the course of our parliamentary duty to advance our private interests or the private interests of another.

5 Avoiding conflict of interest

We will avoid conflict of interests between our private financial affairs and our public duty as a parliamentarian. Should a conflict arise we will take all reasonable steps to resolve the conflict quickly and in a manner which is in the interest of the public.
6 Ensuring proper use of public resources