Shrewsbury welcomes Sir Laurie Magnus CBE for a talk on integrity in public life

Shrewsbury School recently welcomed Sir Laurie Magnus CBE, the Prime Minister’s Independent Adviser on Ministerial Standards, for a thought-provoking discussion on politics, public service and the importance of integrity in public life.

Sir Laurie, whose wide-ranging career has spanned the financial, charity and public sectors, was appointed to the independent role in December 2022 by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and continues to serve under Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The position, which is non-partisan, involves advising the Prime Minister on Ministerial Standards in public office.

Speaking to an audience of Shrewsbury pupils, students from local schools and members of the wider community, Sir Laurie offered insights into what the role involves in practice, why standards of conduct matter, and why those who participate in public life deserve thoughtful engagement and respect.

The event was supported by the Lord-Lieutenant of Shropshire Anna Turner and the High Sheriff of Shropshire Jane Trowbridge, and was hosted by Headmaster Leo Winkley in conversation with Sir Laurie, followed by questions from the audience. The discussion prompted a lively exchange of ideas about politics, accountability and the responsibilities that accompany leadership in public life.

Sir Laurie has long been involved in the heritage sector alongside his work in finance. Over the past three decades he has served as Deputy Chair of the National Trust, Chair of English Heritage and Chair of Historic England, where he was closely involved in the restoration of Shrewsbury's Flaxmill Maltings. He currently serves as Chair of the Heritage of London Trust and as an adviser to the global investment bank Evercore.

Reflecting on the visit, Shrewsbury's Headmaster Leo Winkley said:

“It was a privilege to welcome Sir Laurie Magnus CBE to Shrewsbury. Hearing directly from someone entrusted with upholding standards in public life was a valuable experience for our pupils.

“It was great to see our politics pupils, alongside members of the wider Shrewsbury community and young people from local schools, engaging so thoughtfully with the themes of integrity in politics, the importance of reasoned debate and the value of listening respectfully to different perspectives.”

The evening provided pupils with a valuable opportunity to engage with the realities of public service and to reflect on the principles that underpin trust and accountability in our contemporary world.