Summary

Also known as the 'Nolan principles', these seven principles make clear that the ethics of a member of the public service is selflessness. "Holders of public office should act solely in terms of the public interest" (CSPL, 1995). The principles also state "Holders of public office are accountable to the public for their decisions and actions and must submit themselves to the scrutiny necessary to ensure this." Values like honesty, integrity, objectivity and openness round out the list.
Twenty-five years after their publication, Lord Jonathan Evans (2020) reflects, "The Principles are well known but they are not necessarily set in stone. There is scope for reform as public expectations change. Currently, the principles do not explicitly cover behavioural issues such as bullying and harassment for example, and there may be room to consider whether these issues might be better reflected. But overall, the Seven Principles have stood the test of time." And as Shah (2020) argues, "Ethical frameworks, like the Nolan principles, can help boards and governors fulfil their purpose in a way that adds value when all else seems uncertain."

Content

Force:yes