Business Corruption in the United Kingdom
Corruption does not represent a constraint to business in the United Kingdom, and companies are very unlikely to be put in a situation where
bribery
is needed. Despite some isolated instances of abuse of administrative power, the UK promotes high ethical standards in public services. The
UK Bribery Act
establishes liability for corruption offences committed anywhere in the world, including bribery between businesses and of foreign public officials. It also introduces a liability offence for companies that fail to prevent bribery committed by representatives; this can be avoided only by implementing preventive anti-corruption policies and procedures. There is no distinction made between bribery and
facilitation payments
, and
these practices rarely occur in the UK.
Gifts
and hospitality can be considered illegal depending on the intent and benefit obtained. The UK has a strong legal framework for fighting bribery at home and abroad, and the agencies tasked with fighting corruption are efficient and independent.
December 2015
GAN Integrity Solutions
UK Bribery Act Summary
UK Bribery Act Compliance Guide