Consultation Documents

The Standards Commission is committed to providing a response to any consultation that impacts on the ethical standards framework and standards in public life.

In addition, the Standards Commission regularly undertakes consultations and share responses on issues that impact the ethical standards framework, including any proposals to change the Guidance to the Codes of Conduct.

Current Consultations

The Ethical Standards in Public Life etc (Scotland) Act, which introduced the ethical standards framework and Codes of Conduct for councillors and members of devolved public bodies in Scotland, was one of the first laws passed by the Scottish Parliament. In advance of the 25th anniversary of its enactment, the Standards Commission and the Ethical Standards Commissioner (ESC) have conducted a joint review of its provisions and have identified some amendments that could be made to improve or strengthen the framework. The Standards Commission and ESC intend to consult with stakeholders on these proposals. A copy of the proposals can be found below. We are grateful for any views you may have. Please download, complete the form and return it to us by emailing enquiries@standardscommission.org.uk 

Alternatively, you can simply send us an email with your views. The deadline for responses is Friday, 30 August 2024.

Past Consultations (Closed)

CONSULTATION ON DRAFT GUIDANCE (2021)

The Standards Commission has updated its Guidance to support the revised Councillors’ Code and Model Code. Copies of the consultations versions of the drafts can be downloaded below:

Draft Guidance on Revised Councillors’ Code of Conduct

Draft Guidance on Revised Model Code of Conduct

CONSULTATION ON DRAFT BSL PLAN (2018)

In 2018, the Standards Commissions consulted on its draft British Sign Language (BSL) Plan. The Plan sets out the actions which the Standards Commission will take over the period 2018-2024 to improve access to information and services for BSL users. 

CONSULTATION ON COUNCILLORS' CODE AMENDMENTS (2016)

The Scottish Government issued a consultation on possible amendments to the provisions on conflicts of interests in the Councillors' Code of Conduct in December 2016.  The Standards Commission's response, issued on 6 March 2017, can be found below.