Anti-corruption arrangements

Background

In common with other governments, the States of Jersey face increasingly complex risks and threats from corruption. Instances of corruption create losses to the taxpayer, reputational risk to the States of Jersey and also undermine public trust.

Scope

This report focusses on the design and operation of the States’ arrangements to embed a culture of compliance and the arrangements to identify and manage risks of corruption. In particular, it looks at the policies and procedures for procurement and for receipt of gifts and hospitality by States employees and States Members.

Conclusions

A robust statutory framework is in place in Jersey to combat bribery and corruption.

Detailed work is required by the States to implement the new Anti-Corruption Policy and the Counter Fraud and Corruption Strategy over the next 12 months. This should include doing more to raise awareness and further embed a compliance culture amongst States Members and States employees.

There is a need to review and update the Codes of Conduct for employees, States Members, Ministers and Assistant Ministers to include references to the policies and procedures for managing the risk of corruption.

There is also a need to review and improve policies and procedures in respect of:

• managing States Members’ and States employees’ conflicts of interest
• procurement breaches and exemptions; and
• scrutiny of gifts and hospitality.