CouncilBackground
2.1 The Committee on Standards in Public Life, Chaired by Lord Nolan strengthened the need to have clear procedures for staff to raise concerns if they feel that malpractice has occurred.
2.2 The Council expects all of its staff, partners and Members to comply with the seven principles of public life in all of its activities. These are
Selflessness
Holders of public office take decisions in terms of the public interest. They should not do so in order to gain financial or other material benefits for themselves, their family or their friends.
Integrity
Holders of public office should not place themselves under any financial or other obligation to outside individuals or organisations that might influence them in the performance of the official duties.
Objectivity
In carrying out public business, including making public appointments, awarding contract, or recommending individuals for rewards and benefits, holders of public office should make choices on merit.
Accountability
Holders of public office are accountable for their decisions and actions to the public and must submit themselves to whatever scrutiny is appropriate to their office.
Openness
Holders of public office should be as open as possible about all the decisions and actions that they take. They should give reasons for their decisions and restrict information only when the wider public interest clearly demands.
Honesty
Holders of public office have a duty to declare any private interests relating to their public duties to take steps to resolve any conflicts arising in a way that protects the public interest.
Leadership
Holders of public office should promote and support these principles by leadership and example.
2.3 The council is committed to delivering an anti-fraud culture within the authority and among people and organisations that deal with it. It will attempt to raise the awareness of fraud, both within the authority, and in the community. It will encourage the reporting of suspected fraud and will take appropriate action when fraud, corruption or irregularity comes to light.
2.4 The strategy set out in this document covers the following areas: