The latest news regarding the BBC & Princess Diana brought the question of ethics sharply into mind. A simple & clear code of ethics was created by Lord Nolan in 1995; The 7 Principles of Public Life listed below (& link). These were included in a range of Codes of Conduct across public life ie. they were standards of behaviour for public servants to adhere to but should equally apply to any organisation.
It seems that whilst most people in public service do adhere to the principles still, there are a few that don’t, particularly those in higher profile leadership positions that should set the example.
As a Director I pledged to uphold ethical best practice & to challenge & hold accountable those in my organisation or environment that behave outside these principles. Surely ethics must apply to everyone, particularly those in leadership positions.
Selflessness
Integrity
Objectivity
Accountability
Openness
Honesty
Leadership
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