CIOB: We need action on Bribery
Monday, 7 February 2011 12:00 AM
UK Government should not dilute the proposed Bribery Act says the Chartered Institute of Building.
Following the landmark Bill last year which made bribery illegal overseas it was expected that the Bribery Act itself would come into force in April. But with criticism surrounding the accompanying guidance the Ministry of Justice has confirmed it seeks to make further improvement that will make it more practical and comprehensive for business.
Michael Brown Deputy Chief Executive of CIOB said, "The Act is paramount for UK industry to maintain its reputation globally and to continue to set the highest benchmark of professionalism. Getting the balance right between those high standards and legislation which doesn't put UK business at a serious disadvantage is crucial.
"Bribery has no place in construction and actually takes money out of the industry. For any organisation not already in the mindset we strongly advise they formally develop an anti-bribery and corruption culture led by the boardroom, with senior staff responsible and accountable."
The CIOB recommends that organisations should review their internal policies, including, but not limited to those below, ensuring procedures are in place should a claim result:
. A clear statement of an anti-bribery and corruption culture;
. Board-level responsibility and accountability for anti-bribery and corruption issues;
. The appointment of a senior officer with responsibility for the programme;
. Documented policies and procedures;
. A risk assessment that is specific to the organisation;
. Disciplinary processes that provide for individual accountability;
. Financial controls and record keeping to minimise the risk of bribery;
. Training for all staff to ensure the dissemination of an anti-bribery and corruption culture.
The CIOB is a member of the Anti Corruption Forum which is an alliance of UK business associations, professional institutions, civil society organisations and companies with interests in the domestic and international infrastructure, construction and engineering sectors. The Forum's objective is to help create a business environment that is free from corruption.
ENDS
NOTES TO EDITORS
The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) represents for the public benefit the most diverse set of professionals in the construction industry.
Our Mission
To contribute to the creation of a modern, progressive, and responsible construction industry; able to meet the economic, environmental and social challenges faced in the 21st century.
Our 7 Guiding Principles
. Creating extraordinary people through professional learning and continuous personal development.
. Promoting the built environment as central to the quality of life for everyone everywhere.
. Achieving a sustainable future, worldwide.
. Advocating exemplary ethical practice and behaviour, integrity and transparency.
. Pursuing excellence in management practice, and technological innovation rooted in evidence based science.
. Being socially responsible and working responsibly.
. Enabling our members to find an emotional resonance with the Institute; their success is our success.
We have over 47,000 members around the world and are considered to be the international voice of the building professional, representing an unequalled body of knowledge concerning the management of the total building process.
Chartered Member status is recognised internationally as the mark of a true, skilled professional in the construction industry and CIOB members have a common commitment to achieving and maintaining the highest possible standards within the built environment.
Further information is available by contacting Saul Townsend CIOB Press and Communications Manager on t: 01344 630 766 or e: stownsend@ciob.org.uk.
*To unsubscribe from the CIOB's press distribution service please reply to this email with the word 'REMOVE' in the subject field. Or contact the press office directly on t: +44 (0) 1344 630 766.
Kind Regards
Saul Townsend MCIPR
Press & Communications Manager
The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB)
t: + 44 (0) 1344 630 766 f: + 44 (0) 1344 630 770
e: stownsend@ciob.org.uk Twitter: CIOBsaul
w: www.artofbuilding.org">
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