Sunak, under investigation for a possible conflict of interest

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is under investigation by the House of Commons body that oversees the conduct of MPs for a possible conflict of interest, because he allegedly failed to inform that his wife, Akshata Murphy, owns shares in a childcare agency that could benefit from government aid.

In particular, the UK Chancellor of the Exchequer, Jeremy Hunt, announced a pilot test of payments for new nannies, with more money for those who sign up through an agency. In one of these companies, Koru Kidshe is listed as a shareholder of Akshata Murty.

Commissioner for Parliamentary Conduct, Daniel Greenbergannounced this Monday that he opened an investigation into Sunak last week under rules that require MPs to declare their interests in a manner “open and honest” reports Europa Press.

“Members should always be open and honest when expressing any relevant interest in any proceedings of the House or its committees, and in any communication with ministers, members, public officials or public office holders,” the commissioner’s website states.

After the news broke, a spokesman for Downing Street’s official residence said Sunak would help the commissioner clarify this interest in a “transparent manner.”