Counter fraud, bribery and corruption strategy (agenda item 4)
Published 22 December 2023
Applies to England
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Purpose
1). To seek approval for the refreshed Counter Fraud, Bribery and Corruption Strategy.
Background
2). In 2019 the FC participated in a Cabinet Office assessment of compliance against the counter fraud functional standard, the result of which highlighted many areas of improvements required. Since then, much progress has been made.
3). A FC Counter Fraud, Bribery and Corruption Strategy was produced in 2020 covering the period 2020-25, however it has since become outdated as actions have been achieved and our controls and culture are maturing.
Discussion
4). Earlier this year, GIAA conducted a fraud risk management audit which provided moderate assurance of our controls and processes along with eleven recommendations for further improvements.
5). The counter fraud strategy has been refreshed to reflect our current position and the recommended actions from the GIAA audit.
6). Also included for information is the recently drafted Counter Fraud Action plan for 2023/24. Progress against these actions will be included in the counter fraud updates reported through to the FC ARAC. Recommendations
7). The Board are invited to approve the refreshed strategy and make note of the 2023/24 Counter Fraud Action Plan.
Head of Internal Governance, April 2023. Forestry Commission Executive Board.