Decision details

The Anti-Fraud and Corruption Policy was presented to the Executive for adoption on 16 May 2024. At the meeting, the submitted version of the Policy was unable to clearly demonstrate that the recommendations of the Corporate Governance and Standards Committee meeting held on 11 April 2024 had been incorporated. Consequently, the Executive resolved that consideration of the adoption of the Anti-Fraud & Corruption Policy and associated policies be referred to the Leader of the Council for determination in consultation with Executive members and the Chairman of the Corporate Governance and Standards Committee. A tracked changed version of the report was referred to the Leader and consultees for consideration on 20 May 2024.

Following this consultation, the Leader of the Council has resolved to adopt the Anti-Fraud and Corruption Policy and associated policies on behalf of the council.

Guildford Borough Council operates a ‘zero tolerance’ approach towards fraud and corruption and we will use the full range of sanctions available against any individual or organisation found to be committing fraud. Every pound taken by theft or fraud reduces our ability to provide services to the people who need them the most.

It is right and proper to uphold the principles of transparency to encourage individuals to make any disclosures and raise any concerns where they suspect wrongdoing.

It is important that the Council has a Policy in place to govern and investigate issues related to Fraud and corruption and such Policy is kept under regular review.

As the adoption of the Policy is within the remit of the Executive, there is merit in the Executive having the opportunity to consider any proposed revisions to the Policy and being able to provide feedback.

None.

None.

Council’s Constitution, Part 3: Responsibility for Functions, Leader/Executive

The Leader of the Council has the same authority as the Executive to adopt this policy.

The Leader wishes to exercise this authority in consultation with the Executive members and the Chairman of the Corporate Governance and Standards Committee.