Hampshire Councillors Lag in Updating Gift Registers for 2025

Nearly one-third of councillors at Hampshire County Council (HCC) have not updated their public registers of gifts and hospitality for 2025. This lack of updates includes some declarations that date back to 2021. While HCC states that its practices are in line with current regulations, it contrasts sharply with other local authorities that mandate more frequent updates.

As of now, HCC councillors must amend their registers within 28 days of receiving a gift or hospitality valued over £50 or if their interests change. They receive an annual reminder about this requirement, but they are not obliged to confirm a “nil return” if they have not received any gifts or hospitality. This approach diverges from national guidelines from the Committee on Standards in Public Life, which recommends that councils update and publish their registers at least quarterly to enhance transparency.

Limited Updates Raise Concerns

According to data reviewed by the Local Democracy Reporting Service, approximately 29 percent of Hampshire councillors have not submitted any updates this year, with some declarations remaining unchanged for four years. Among those who reported receiving gifts or hospitality in 2025, only two councillors met the £50 threshold: Cllr David Harrison from Totton South & Marchwood and Cllr Zoe Huggins representing Leesland & Town.

In contrast, around 60 percent of councillors did update their registers this year but indicated no gifts or hospitality received. Among these were council leader Nick Adams-King and cabinet member Roz Chadd, as well as others like Alex Crawford, Roger Price, Jacky Tustain, Steve Forster, Mark Kemp-Gee, and Patricia Stallard.

Several councillors have not changed their registers since 2021. This includes deputy leader Jan Warwick, cabinet member Lulu Bowerman, and others such as Ann Briggs, Peter Chegwyn, Rod Cooper, Jackie Branson, and Keith Mans, with declarations ranging from 2021 to 2024.

Official Response and Compliance

A spokesperson for HCC emphasized that councillors are adhering to the regulations outlined in the code of conduct. They pointed out that councillors are expected to update their registers within 28 days of becoming aware of new disclosable pecuniary interests or changes to existing ones.

The spokesperson stated, “Some councillors may not have updated their register simply because no new disclosable pecuniary interests have arisen, and no qualifying gifts or hospitality have been received. This is fully in line with their obligations.”

While annual reminders are distributed, the responsibility for maintaining current records lies with each councillor. HCC’s monitoring officer provides guidance to new councillors, issues annual reminders, and ensures that all declarations and updates are accessible on the county council’s website.

As calls for greater transparency in local governance continue, the situation in Hampshire raises questions about the adequacy of current practices in maintaining public trust. With other local authorities adjusting their approaches to ensure regular updates, HCC may face pressure to reconsider its policies regarding gift registration.