The standards the Group keeps. And where to say when it does not.

Objective: to conduct business fairly and with integrity, to keep the trust of partners and to protect the Group in the long term. Doing what is right, consistently and openly, is how trust is earned and kept. If you see something wrong, speak up. You will be protected for doing so.

Honesty, integrity and high ethical standards — set out in the Code of Ethics. The Group turns down work that does not meet its standards, even when it would be profitable.

The Group’s standards are set out in its Code of Ethics and the policies that follow from it. They apply to directors, employees and contractors and, through the Supplier Code of Conduct, to those who work with the Group.

• Code of Ethics — act honestly, treat people fairly, protect information entrusted to you, declare conflicts and raise concerns.
• Anti-bribery — no bribes and no facilitation payments; gifts and hospitality only within the policy, and recorded.
• Sanctions — no dealings with sanctioned persons; counterparties screened before a relationship begins.
• Conflicts of interest — interests declared and recorded; a person with a conflict does not take part in the decision.
• Speaking up — anyone can raise a concern through Confidential disclosure in Enquiry channels, anonymously if they wish. A worker who makes a protected disclosure is protected from detriment and dismissal under the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998 and the Employment Rights Act 1996. The Group does not tolerate retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith.
• Human rights and fair work — no forced labour, child labour or human trafficking in the Group’s business or supply chain.

The Board approves these policies and reviews them at least annually.

See also: Code of Ethics · Anti-Bribery and Corruption Policy · AML and Sanctions Policy · Conflicts of Interest Policy · Whistleblowing Policy