Lay Members, Committee on Standards

Commitment: 3–4 days/month

Six-year fixed term

We are seeking one appointment for November 2026 and one for June 2027.

About the Committee on Standards

The Committee on Standards plays a central role in upholding the integrity of the House of Commons. It oversees complaints about Members of Parliament and recommends sanctions when they are found to have breached the Code of Conduct.  Uniquely among House of Commons Committees, its membership is equally comprised of MPs and members of the public, known as lay members.  Selected via open and fair competition, lay members are an integral part of the Committee, bringing breadth of experience and perspectives from outside Parliament itself. Working alongside elected members, its lay members bring independent scrutiny to the Code of Conduct, oversee the work of the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards, and consider individual cases referred for decision. As part of a system designed to champion openness, accountability, and public trust, the Committee’s lay members hold full voting rights and make a vital contribution to strengthening ethical standards in Parliament.

The Role

Lay members participate fully in the Committee’s work, reviewing evidence, shaping judgments on complex and sensitive matters, and contributing to the development of the wider standards system. They engage in evidence sessions, question witnesses, and help draft Committee reports.

Who We’re Looking For

Lay members should demonstrate their ability to contribute to decision-making on sensitive matters where there are strong and contested views, and to work with colleagues to come to an agreed approach. Alongside this, proven ability to consider and review large volumes of information to reach sound, evidence-based judgments which take account of standards of behaviour and organisational context will be vital.  Experience of working strategically with or within complex environments to develop and improve policies and processes is also essential, as are a commitment to parliamentary democracy and a general understanding of the role of MPs.  Absolute integrity, strength of character and strong communication skills are key requirements. 

If you care deeply about public standards and want to make a meaningful impact at the heart of Parliament, we want to hear from you.

All candidates will be required to demonstrate in their written applications and at interview how their life experience has equipped them to meet the requirements of the role. The criteria that will be used to assess whether candidates have the required knowledge, experience, skills and qualities are set out in the Person Specification. 

Candidates who wish to be considered as lay members should show how they meet the  criteria and have the required personal qualities and skills via an online questionnaire. For more information, please visit www.gatenbysanderson.com/job/GSe129658 

To discuss the role in more detail please contact our advising consultants at GatenbySanderson, for a confidential conversation: laymemberhoc@gatenbysanderson.com. 

The closing date for applications, which should be submitted via the website, is 17:00 Friday 1 May 2026.