Poilievre's proposed "shadow lobbying" ban aims to close loopholes in current lobbying regulations. The plan would require anyone advising government officials on matters related to their financial interests or company to register as a lobbyist12. This measure is designed to increase transparency and accountability in government dealings, particularly targeting situations where individuals may influence policy without formal lobbying registration3.

Key aspects of the proposed shadow lobbying ban include:

• Extending to both direct and indirect advisors to the government1

• Requiring disclosure of personal interests that could benefit from policy decisions1

• Increasing fines for ethics violations to $10,0001

• Mandating asset disclosure for party leaders and cabinet ministers12

• Prohibiting cabinet ministers from using tax havens2

This proposal goes beyond previous administrations' ethics pledges, aiming to address concerns about undue influence in policymaking and close potential avenues for conflicts of interest45.

Mandatory asset disclosure rules require public officials to report their financial interests, including assets, income, liabilities, and gifts. These rules typically apply to elected representatives, senior government employees, and judges1. Key components often include:

• Disclosure of assets valued over a certain threshold (e.g., $1,000)2

• Reporting of income sources exceeding specified amounts (e.g., $200 annually)2

• Listing of liabilities over $10,0002

• Declaration of gifts and sponsored travel3

• Disclosure of bank accounts, loans, and investments3

The purpose of these rules is to promote transparency, prevent conflicts of interest, and build public trust in government institutions3. However, the specific requirements can vary between jurisdictions, with some mandating more comprehensive disclosures than others23.

Poilievre's proposed reforms aim to close what he calls the "Carney loophole" in the Conflict of Interest Act. This loophole allegedly allows leadership candidates like Mark Carney to potentially become Prime Minister without disclosing their financial interests12. The proposed changes would require:

• Leadership candidates to disclose financial holdings to the Ethics Commissioner within 30 days of becoming an official candidate12

• Public disclosure of these financial interests within 60 days12

• Future Prime Ministers and Ministers to sell assets that create conflicts of interest13

• Increased fines for ethics violations to $10,0003

• Tax transparency, requiring disclosure of where candidates paid taxes for the past seven years3

These reforms are part of Poilievre's broader plan to strengthen accountability and transparency in Canadian politics, addressing concerns about potential conflicts of interest and the influence of financial interests on political decision-making34.