Premier Christy Clark confirmed today that her agriculture minister is seeking guidance from the province’s conflict of interest commissioner on the thorny issue of his lobbying  efforts with the Agricultural Land Commission.

Clark said Tuesday that Pat Pimm has written to Commissioner Paul Fraser and asked him to provide advice to B.C. MLAs about situations where their duties collide with the independent commission that protects farmland.

“I understand that the ALC is absolutely an independent body,” she said. “Its independence must be respected. At the same time MLAs must be able to bring forward concerns and issues on behalf of their constituents as Mr. Pimm did.”

Clark did not respond to questions about whether Pimm should step down from cabinet while the issue is reviewed.

Paul Fraser, B.C.’s conflict of interest commissioner states: “I have agreed to look into the matter and render an opinion …,”

Last August, the land commission blasted as “inappropriate” Pimm’s efforts on behalf of a local constituent in Fort St. John to have land removed from the agricultural land reserve to build rodeo grounds and a campsite.

Pimm also penned a memo to the Core Review indicating that the ALC should come under the wing of his ministry.