Relevant Interest - Project Open Gov

An interest that might reasonably be thought to influence an MP’s actions or words.

Category: Parliament and elections Parliamentary procedure

Also used as: relevant interests, relevant financial interest, relevant financial interests

Source / explainer: Read the House of Commons Code of Conduct and Guide to the Rules

Last reviewed: 22 August 2026

A relevant interest is an interest that might reasonably be thought by others to influence an MP’s actions or words as a Member. The idea is central to deciding when an MP should declare an interest, even if the interest is not separately registrable.

Related terms

Declaration of InterestsA statement by an MP about a relevant interest when taking part in parliamentary proceedings or communications.Members’ Financial InterestsFinancial interests or benefits held by an MP that may need to be registered or declared.Registrable InterestAn interest that an MP is required to place in the Register of Members’ Financial Interests.