ACOBA’s closure: the new process and contact details for applications under the Business Appointments Rules after Friday 12 September 2025
If you already have an application with ACOBA, or wish to submit an application before close/end of 12 September, ACOBA is operating a business as usual function. You can continue to contact us on acoba@acoba.gov.uk and 020 7271 0839.

The on 21 July 2025 that ACOBA will close and that its functions will be transferred as of 13 October 2025.
Interim arrangements
After Friday 12 September, if you have an application to submit for advice you should use the relevant instructions below:
- Former ministers should submit applications to: the office of the Independent Adviser on Ministerial Standards at ind.adviser.BARS@cabinetoffice.gov.uk
- Applications from former senior civil servants at director general level and above (SCS3/equivalent and above) should be submitted via their department to: the Civil Service Commission at bars@csc.gov.uk
- Applications from the most senior special advisers (PB4 and equivalent) should be submitted via the department to: the Civil Service Commission at bars@csc.gov.uk
- Applications from other senior Crown servants, for example members of the military and diplomatic services, should be submitted via the department to: acoba@acoba.gov.uk for further information.
From 13 October ACOBA will no longer make decisions on your application. If you have a live application for consideration with ACOBA in the lead up to this date, ACOBA will be in contact with you directly to discuss the handling of your application.
Please contact the team on acoba@acoba.gov.uk and 020 7271 0839 if you have any questions about this transition.