Code of Practice for the Defence Scientific Advisory Council

Public Service Values

The members of this advisory non-departmental public body must at all times

• observe the highest standards of impartiality, integrity and objectivity in relation to the advice they provide and the management of this public body;
• be accountable to Parliament and the public more generally for its activities and for the standard of advice it provides; and 
• in accordance with Government policy on openness, comply fully with the Code of Practice on Access to Government Information

The minister of the sponsoring department is answerable to Parliament for the policies and performance of this body, including the policy framework within which it operates.

Standards in Public Life

All DSAC and ISTA register members must

• follow the Seven Principles of Public Life set out by the Committee on Standards in Public Life
• comply with this code, and ensure they understand their duties, rights and responsibilities, and that they are familiar with the function and role of this body and any relevant statements of Government policy
• not misuse information gained in the course of their public service for personal gain or for political purpose, nor seek to use the opportunity of public service to promote their private interests or those of connected persons, firms, businesses or other organisations
• not hold any paid or high-profile unpaid posts in a political party, and not engage in specific political activities on matters directly affecting the work of this body. When engaging in other political activities, board members should be conscious of their public role and exercise proper discretion. These restrictions do not apply to MPs (in those cases where MPs are eligible to be appointed), to local councilors, or to Peers in relation to their conduct in the House of Lords

Role of DSAC Members

Members of DSAC have collective responsibility for the operation of this body. They must:

• engage fully in collective consideration of the issues, taking account of the full range of relevant factors, including any guidance issued by the sponsor department or the responsible minister
• adhere to the Code of Practice on Access to Government Information (including prompt responses to public requests for information); and agree an Annual Report
• respond appropriately to complaints, if necessary with reference to the sponsor department
• ensure that Council does not exceed its powers or functions. Communications between DSAC members and the minister will generally be through the Chairman of Council

Nevertheless, any DSAC member has the right of access to ministers on any matter that he or she believes raises important issues relating to his or her duties as a DSAC member. In such cases the agreement of the Chairman of Council should normally be sought.

Individual members can normally be removed from office by the minister, or the Chairman of Council if they fail to perform the duties required of them in line with the standards expected in public office.