Issue - meetings

(A report by Russell Stone, Director of Finance (S151 Officer))

The Director of Finance (S151 Officer) presented a report by the Assistant Director – Governance & Monitoring Officer which contained the updated Counter Fraud, Bribery and Corruption Policy for approval. Members were advised that the policy had been reviewed to ensure it remained robust, compliant with current legislation, and aligned with best practice across the South and East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership. The policy set out the Council’s commitment to preventing fraud and corruption in all its activities and dealings with external partners, safeguarding public funds and maintaining public confidence. The updated policy was attached at Appendix 1 within the report.

The revised policy included clear definitions of fraud, bribery and corruption, outlined the responsibilities of officers and members, and detailed the procedures for reporting and investigating suspected irregularities. It also incorporated provisions for ongoing monitoring and review, ensuring that the Council could respond promptly to legislative changes and emerging risks.

The report recommended that Cabinet approve the policy and delegate authority to the Section 151 Officer to make minor amendments in future, where necessary to reflect changes in legislation, statutory guidance or contact details, following consultation with the relevant portfolio holder.

Members welcomed the updated policy and acknowledged its importance in maintaining strong governance and protecting the integrity of the Council’s operations. The discussion emphasised the need for clear guidance and effective communication to ensure that all staff and members understood their responsibilities under the policy. The inclusion of delegated authority for minor updates was supported as a practical measure to keep the policy current without requiring repeated formal approvals for administrative changes.

The approach to harmonise the policy across the Partnership was noted as a positive step, providing consistency and resilience in managing fraud risks. Members agreed that the policy would help safeguard public resources and reinforce the Council’s zero-tolerance stance on fraud, bribery and corruption.

The recommendation was moved by Councillor Sarah Sharpe and seconded by Councillor Claire Rylott.

Resolved:

1.    That the Counter Fraud, Bribery and Corruption Policy attached at Appendix 1 within the report be approved; and

2.    That authority be delegated to the S151 Officer, to review and make minor amendments to the Policy to reflect changes in legislation, statutory guidance or contact details, following consultation with the portfolio holder.

(A report by Russell Stone, Director of Finance (S151 Officer))

The Committee received the refreshed Counter Fraud, Bribery and Corruption Policy, presented by the Director of Finance (S151 Officer). The policy, attached as Appendix 1 within the report, formed a critical part of the Council’s governance framework and set out the Council’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of integrity and accountability. The update ensured compliance with current legislation and aligned with best practice guidance issued by CIPFA and the Local Government Association.

Key features of the revised policy include:

·         A clear zero-tolerance approach to fraud, bribery, and corruption.

·         Defined responsibilities for Members, officers, and contractors.

·         Procedures for reporting suspected fraud, including whistleblowing channels.

·         Confirmation of the role of internal audit in monitoring compliance and undertaking investigations.

·         Alignment of the policy across the South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership, with minor amendments to ensure correct references to Boston Borough Council.

The policy also reinforced the Council’s commitment to proactive fraud prevention measures, including risk-based audits, staff training, and awareness campaigns.

Members welcomed the update and raised several points for clarification and improvement:

·         A Member suggested that the wording in the policy should move from “aims” to “will” to emphasise the Council’s firm commitment to zero tolerance. Officers agreed to review and strengthen the language accordingly.

·         Members queried whether internal audit undertook random spot checks in addition to scheduled reviews. Officers confirmed that spot checks were carried out where appropriate and that internal audit provided assurance on fraud prevention measures through its annual plan and targeted reviews.

·         Clarification was sought on delegated authority for minor amendments. Officers confirmed that authority rests with the S151 Officer to make changes required by legislation or statutory guidance without returning to Committee.

·         Members asked whether staff and Members received regular training on fraud awareness. Officers confirmed that training was delivered periodically and that refresher sessions would be scheduled following the policy update.

·         Members queried whether whistleblowing arrangements were robust and accessible. Officers confirmed that the Whistleblowing Policy complemented the Counter Fraud Policy and provided clear channels for confidential reporting.

The Committee noted the importance of maintaining strong anti-fraud measures, particularly in light of increasing cyber threats and financial pressures.

Resolved:

1.    That the Counter Fraud, Bribery and Corruption Policy be approved; and

2.    That delegated authority be given to the S151 Officer to make minor amendments to reflect changes in legislation or statutory guidance.