CSR – a forgotten responsibility for UK politicians?

Both leading UK political parties have had a considerable amount to say recently about CSR related matters. This has particularly focused on the banking sector and, occasionally, matters such as climate change.

I recall that, a few years ago, the British government allocated a CSR portfolio responsibility to Stephen Timms. He, along with his interest in responsible investing, took this aspect of his ministerial role seriously. Inevitably, he was subsequently moved on to a different job.

After that the idea of this subject being an important aspect of government business policy seems to have slipped off the agenda. Just so that you are all aware, Ian Lucas is currently the government minister that has responsibility for CSR. The Conservative Party doesn’t have anyone at all according to its website.

It will be interesting to see whether, in the future, public statements emanating from both parties on related matters, (bonuses paid to bankers for instance), are supported by a constructive and considered approach to CSR.