The University of Westminster launched its new Public Policy and Management MA course with a talk from Sir Laurie Magnus, the Prime Minister’s Independent Adviser on Ministerial Standards. Sir Magnus reflected upon his work and the theme of ethics in public policy.
The evening began with an introduction from Westminster’s Professor Pippa Catterall, Professor of History and Policy and Co-Course Leader of the new MA programme, who remarked upon the University’s long history of providing students with academic excellence, cultural engagement and personal enrichment since its inception as The Polytechnic Institution in 1838.
Sir Laurie then began his talk by sharing his commitment to encouraging students to get involved in politics, before discussing his role as an Independent Adviser and exploring why ministerial standards are so important in today’s society.
The talk ended with a positive look to the future, with Sir Laurie expressing his hope that in five to ten years, the Seven Principles of Public Life, which are the ethical standards those working in the public sector are expected to adhere to, will be more firmly embedded in the culture of institutions. As a result, there will be more respect, less intimidation and fear, and an increase in both public trust and involvement in politics.
Attendees then had the opportunity to engage in an insightful Q&A session, which covered a wide range of questions from Professor Catterall and members of the audience. This was followed by a drinks reception where attendees could further discuss the themes of the talk.
Sir Laurie Magnus with Westminster colleagues Professor Catterall, Dr David Torrance and Dr Dan Greenwood
Sir Laurie started his career as a corporate finance adviser at Samuel Montagu & Co (subsequently HSBC Investment Bank) specialising in mergers and acquisitions, fundraising and restructuring, before moving into insurance and fund management. He is currently Chair of The City of London Investment Trust plc, and a senior adviser at Evercore, the investment banking group.
Sir Laurie has also had a distinguished record of public service. This includes serving as Chair of Historic England between 2013 and 2023 and Chair of the Heritage of London Trust (HOLT) between 2023 and 2026.
About the event Professor Catterall said: “Laurie’s talk brilliantly explored the issue of how effectively the system works and whether it’s sufficient to restore trust in politics and restrain bad actors. It’s good to hear his optimism on these points though, as emerged during the Q&A, reform of other accountability structures is likely needed as well.”
This talk and the Public Policy and Management MA course directly contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4: Quality Education and 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.
Find out more about studying Politics and International Relations at the University of Westminster.
