Michael has been asked to join the Ethics and Integrity Commission (EIC). Michael was appointed by the Prime Minister having been nominated by the Leader of the Opposition, Kemi Badenoch. The Commission was launched on 13 October 2025, replacing the Committee on Standards in Public Life. The EIC has a range of responsibilities, including promoting the highest standards in public life, and advising public authorities on the development of clear codes of conduct with effective oversight arrangements. They also report to the Prime Minister on matters concerning ethical standards.
The Commission safeguards the Seven Principles of Public Life (often called the Nolan Principles) which outline the ethical standards all those working in the public sector are expected to adhere to. The Principles apply to all public office holders and private and voluntary organisations delivering services paid for by public funds.
The Principles are:
- Selflessness
- Integrity
- Objectivity
- Accountability
- Openness
- Honesty
- Leadership
Michael said,
"I am honoured to have been nominated by the Leader of the Opposition and appointed by the Prime Minister to join the newly formed Ethics and Integrity Commission. Our remit is to promote the highest standards in public life and I look forward to working with the chairman and my fellow commissioners in the years ahead."