Robert Mercer MLC has said he follows government’s conflicts of interest guidance in relation to a Carbon Literacy Firm that is registered at his home.
The firm Earthscope has been delivering the ‘accredited carbon literacy training’ to over 400 civil servants, all paid for with public money provided by DEFA.
Earthscope Limited and the trading name ‘Earthscope Isle of Man’ is listed on Isle of Man Company Registry as being at Mannin Veg, Gansey Point, Port St Mary; the home of Legislative Council Member, Rob Mercer.
The company is operated by the MLC’s daughter Sarah Mercer and her partner Matthew Warren.
Not Conflicted
In a statement to Manx.News, Mr Mercer said: “I do share an address with my Daughter and her partner who are the directors and owners of Earthscope Ltd.”
He says he is neither a director, or shareholder nor indeed a beneficial owner of Earthscope Ltd, and has not been involved in any decision making regarding Earthscope Ltd.
Mr Mercer has never made any declaration of his links to this business in the Tynwald Members Interests Register.
Although he claims he confirmed that his register of members interests are up to date and accurate and are in accordance with the rules.
Declaration
Mr Mercer said: “I have declared my connection with Earthscope Ltd through what is known as the related party transactions form this can be seen in the published Isle of Man Government Financial Statements and Report for the year ending 31 March 2024.
“This is a requirement of part of our financial regulations and these are published annually as part of Government’s audited accounts.
“Currently these audited accounts are where members of Tynwald are required to declare any related party’s (such as relatives) who they know have contracts with Government.”
Conflicts of Interest
Mercer added: “I am fully aware of and follow the conflicts of interest guidance published by government.
“I am content that any conflicts, perceived or otherwise, are logged and suitably declared via the appropriate methods.
“The article correctly points out that I am the Chair of Tynwald’s Environment & Infrastructure Policy Review Committee.
“It then goes on to mention that the committee oversees environmental matters, expenditure and policies.
“Any inference that the committee is responsible for expenditure is inaccurate. That responsibility lies within departments and the Treasury.”
Mercer ‘Committed to Transparency’
Closing his statement, Mr Mercer said: “I would like extend my thanks to those who have brought this article to my attention, and to those who have provided accurate and helpful commentary online.
“I hope that this statement will serve to provide additional insight into this matter.
“I am committed to the principles and practice of transparency and I am happy to meet anyone with concerns or constructive ideas for improvement.”
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