You must keep your obligations under the Conflict of Interest Code for Members of the House of Commons in mind when writing letters of support on behalf of individuals or businesses in your riding, or helping them deal with federal entities.
The Code says in section 5 that Members are not contravening the Code if they are doing something that is a normal and proper part of their duties to constituents.
As with other activities, when writing letters of support you are not allowed to act in any way to:
- Further your private interests
- Further the private interests of a member of your family
- Improperly further another person’s or entity’s private interests
This includes furthering your private interests or those of a family member, or improperly furthering another person’s or entity’s private interests by using your position to influence someone else’s decision.
It’s a good idea to contact your advisor in the Commissioner’s Office for guidance. Please call 613-995-0721 or send us an email.
If you are a minister or parliamentary secretary, you must also keep your obligations under the Conflict of Interest Act in mind when writing letters of support.