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Written question asked by Lord Spellar (Labour) on Tuesday, 21 October 2025, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 4 November 2025. It was answered by Baroness Lloyd of Effra (Labour) on Tuesday, 4 November 2025 on behalf of the Department for Business and Trade.


Certification Officer

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Baroness Lloyd of Effra on 20 October (HL10843), whether the Department and Minister have any oversight or responsibility for the Certification Officer and the fulfilment of their duties and responsibilities.

Answer

The Certification Officer accounts to Parliament by making their annual report, which is laid before Parliament and published by the Secretary of State. The Secretary of State has the power to remove the Certification Officer, but only where the Certification Officer has been adjudged bankrupt, convicted of a criminal offence, has demonstrated misconduct, is incapacitated, or is otherwise unable or unfit to hold the office.

However, the Certification Officer is independent in how they exercise their statutory functions.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL11202
Session
2024-26
Related items
Trade Unions: Annual Reports
Monday, 20 October 2025
Written questions
House of Lords
Subjects
Departmental responsibilities Certification Officer Department for Business and Trade
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk