The Council expects all staff and elected Members to always demonstrate the highest standards of integrity.

For staff these standards are clearly set out in the Council's Standing Orders, Financial Regulations (and supporting documents), Contract Procedure Rules and the relevant Codes of Conduct. Other guidance is issued from time to time, in respect of specific issues such as the receipt of hospitality and gifts. A list of the key documents is contained in Annex1.

The Council's Financial Regulations set out the obligations on staff to report suspected irregularities whilst the Code of Financial Procedures provides further detailed advice. Contract Procedure Rules provide a framework within which staff should operate when purchasing goods and services and letting contracts.

The Employee Code of Conduct sets out the obligations of staff with respect to the disclosure of official information, private interests and the need to exercise the utmost discretion in accepting hospitality and gifts. In addition, the Council's disciplinary procedures set out the action which may be taken against staff who are found to be involved in fraudulent or corrupt activity. This may include staff being dismissed.

Elected Members are required to operate within the Council's Standing Orders and to conduct themselves in accordance with the standards set out in the Code of Conduct for Members. Details of the statutory framework relating to fraud and corruption are set out in Annex2.

The seven principles of public life, the ‘Nolan Principles’ are incorporated in the Council’s Constitution and Code of Corporate Governance under the provisions of the Local Government Act 2000. Elected Members (and all staff) must follow these principles in undertaking their duties. An explanation of the principles is included within Annex3.

The Council has a Members’ Code of Conduct Committee responsible for overseeing, monitoring, reviewing and enforcing the conduct of Members.