Committee on Standards in Public Life

The advisory body that promotes high ethical standards across public life.

Category: Government roles and offices Public bodies and agencies

Abbreviation: CSPL

Also used as: CSPL, Committee on Standards in Public Life, standards in public life committee, public standards committee

Official website: Visit the Committee on Standards in Public Life

Source / explainer: Read the Seven Principles of Public Life

Last reviewed: 22 August 2026

The Committee on Standards in Public Life is an advisory body that promotes high ethical standards across public life. It is associated with the Seven Principles of Public Life and reviews standards arrangements across public institutions, but it does not normally investigate individual cases.

Related terms

House of Commons Code of ConductThe rules setting expected standards of conduct for MPs in their public role.Ministerial CodeThe Prime Minister’s code setting out standards and guidance for government ministers.Seven Principles of Public LifeThe ethical principles for public office holders, also known as the Nolan Principles.