THE SEVEN PRINCIPLES OF PUBLIC LIFE

THE SEVEN PRINCIPLES OF PUBLIC LIFE

From: The Committee on Standards in Public Life is an independent public body which advises government on ethical standards across the whole of public life in the UK.

 

SELFLESSNESS

            Holders of public office should act solely 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 seek to influence them in the performance of their official duties.

 

OBJECTIVITY

            In carrying out public business, including making public appointments, awarding contracts, 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 and 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.

                                                                                       

 

                        These principles apply to all aspects of public life.  The Committee has set them out here for the benefit of all who serve the public in any way.