Anti-Money Laundering Policy
Key Principles
2.1 The council will not tolerate money laundering and if proven employees will face possible dismissal and/or prosecution.
2.2 The council expects that Councillors and officers at all levels will lead by example to ensure high standards of propriety, integrity and accountability and operate within relevant Codes of Conduct.
2.3 The council will endeavour to raise money laundering awareness as part of the Anti-Fraud, Bribery & Corruption framework and approach among employees both at induction and periodically throughout their employment.
2.4 The council expects Councillors and Senior Officers to emphasise the importance of these policies and approach and to actively promote and support the fight against money laundering.
2.5 The council expects individuals and organisations with whom it comes into contact with to act with integrity towards the council.
2.6 The council understands the risks it faces and will implement policies and procedures to identify and prevent any fraudulent acts, but will also take all action necessary to investigate and identify it, including money laundering.
2.7 The council will take appropriate action against those responsible for money laundering and where possible recover losses incurred (see Recovery of Losses section).
2.8 Members of the public are asked to contribute to the council's fight against money laundering by remaining vigilant to the potential for it and reporting it where they suspect the council is being targeted. Employees and Councillors have a duty to do so, and concerns should be raised when it is reasonably believed that one or more of the following has occurred, is occurring or is likely to occur:
- A criminal offence.
- A failure to comply with a statutory or legal obligation.
- Improper or unauthorised use of public or other official funds, or assets.
2.9 The investigation of any allegations of money laundering will be fair, independent and objective. Officers will be mindful of the Equality Act 2010 and will not let their political or personal views regarding suspects, victims or witnesses unduly influence their decisions. Officers will not be affected by improper or undue pressure from any source.
2.10 Wiltshire Council will endeavour not to facilitate fraud against other bodies including money laundering. If through its operation or investigation work, it identifies possible fraud against another organisation, it will report this to the 'appropriate body'.
2.11 Senior Officers will work with service areas to help raise awareness of money laundering risk that affect the public relative to the service area.