Report of: The Interim Group Finance Manager (Section 151 Officer)

Purpose of report: To seek approval of the updated Anti-Bribery, Fraud and Corruption Policy.

Recommendation(s): That the Committee resolves to:

1.    Approve the updated Anti-Bribery, Fraud and Corruption Policy, as attached at Appendix 1.

The Audit and Governance Committee resolved to:

1.    Approve the updated Anti-Bribery, Fraud, and Corruption Policy, as attached in appendix 1.

The Group Finance Director had submitted a report to seek approval of the updated Anti-Bribery, Fraud, and Corruption Policy. 

Scott Warner, the Counter Fraud Manager, was present to respond to questions.  

The Counter Fraud Manager provided a summary of the report, noting that it seeks approval of the Anti-bribery, Fraud, and Corruption Policy review. The Committee heard that the policy was last reviewed in June 2023 and sets out the Council's zero-tolerance approach to bribery, fraud, and corruption, as well as providing a clear framework for preventing, identifying, reporting and responding to concerns. The Counter Fraud Manager summarised that the policy explains the standards expected of members, employees, contractors, partners, and anyone working on behalf of the Council, as well as setting out the responsibilities for protecting public funds, safeguarding services, and maintaining public confidence in how the Council conducts business. It was noted that the review produced several minor changes, including those relevant to newer legislation, organisational failure to prevent fraud, and language updates to improve clarity. 

The Chair invited questions from the Committee.  

The Chair queried how often the police have become involved in fraud or bribery and corruption cases with this Council, to which the Counter Fraud Manager noted that it is extremely rare. The Committee heard that each case is assessed on its own merits alongside its potential effect on Council services. The Counter Fraud Manager noted police involvement only twice in the last twelve years.  

Councillor Fry proposed, and Councillor Regisford seconded, the recommendation.   

The Audit and Governance Committee resolved to: 

1. Approve the updated Anti-Bribery, Fraud, and Corruption Policy, as attached at Appendix 1.