Guidance

Code of conduct for board members of public bodies

Standards expected from those on boards of government departments, non-ministerial departments, executive agencies, NDPBs, and national public corporations.

From:
Cabinet Office and Efficiency and Reform Group
Published
14 June 2011
Last updated
1 November 2019 — See all updates

Documents

Code of Conduct for Board Members of Public Bodies June 2019

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Code of Conduct for Board Members of Public Bodies

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Details

This Code replaces the Code of Conduct for Board Members of Public Bodies issued by the Cabinet Office in 2011.

It sets out the personal and professional standards expected from non-executive board members of UK public bodies and forms part of their terms of appointment.

The 2019 Code includes new provisions making clear that bullying, harassment or other discriminatory behaviour will not be tolerated. It also introduces a new requirement for the board member to notify the sponsor department of any bankruptcy, current police investigation, unspent criminal conviction or disqualification as a company director.

In addition the new Code reminds office holders of their role in promoting diversity and inclusivity within their organisation, including at Board level.

The Code includes clauses on:

  • principles of Public Life
  • Members’ Interests
  • conflicts of interest
  • responsibilities as a Board Member
  • responsibilities towards employees
  • the use of social media
  • raising concerns

The Code should also be observed alongside the 12 Principles of Governance for all Public Body Non-Executive Directors.

Updates to this page

Published 14 June 2011
Last updated 1 November 2019 + show all updates

  1. Added HTML version

  2. Updated text and attachment

  3. First published.

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