Code of Conduct for Court Members

Code of Conduct for Members of Court

This Code of Conduct applies equally to all members of Court.  The Court endorses the Nine Principles of Public Life in Scotland, as set out in the Ethical Standards in Public Life etc. (Scotland) Act 2000, which incorporated the existing seven principles of public life (Nolan Principles) (see below).  In practical terms, these principles require that the Court and its members should observe the highest standards of integrity, objectivity and honesty in the transaction of all its business.

Members of Court should:-

  • observe and comply with the University’s policies and procedures;
  • adhere to the Nine Principles of Public Life in Scotland, as set out in the Ethical Standards in Public Life etc. (Scotland) Act 2000, and to the University’s Dignity at Work and Study Policy and Procedure;
  • not act in a way which might reasonably be considered to harm the reputation of the University - noting that this does not impede any right to make fair and justified comment, criticism or protest, including reasonable criticism of the University, nor does it impede the academic freedom of any relevant person (as defined in s.26 of the Further and Higher Education (Scotland) Act 2005, as the same may be amended or replaced from time to time);
  • make all reasonable efforts to attend every meeting of Court. In the event of unavoidable absence, a member should inform the University Secretary or clerk prior to the meeting;
  • read the papers to be considered by Court (normally circulated to members on the Wednesday prior to each meeting), consider their contents and seek any additional information or necessary clarification from the University Secretary, the convener of the committee concerned or the author of the paper;
  • ensure, through the Convener, that their views relevant to an item under discussion are heard by Court;
  • always bear in mind the best interests of the University;
  • declare any personal or business interests which may conflict with their responsibilities to the University; leave the meeting and not participate in the decision-making process if there is a conflict of interest;
  • participate in ensuring that discussions are held and decisions taken in an honest, open and objective manner and that taking sectional positions is avoided;
  • when a consensus decision cannot be reached, vote objectively and dispassionately. If a member votes against a motion which is carried by the majority of those present, he/she should subsequently support the decision or, exceptionally, ask that his/her dissent is recorded.  In extreme circumstances, for example if the matter is felt to be one of conscience or principle, a member may resign from the Court;  andbring the same qualities of honesty, openness and objectivity to any work they have agreed to undertake on Court Committees or on working parties established by Court.

 

NINE principles of public life

Selflessness

Holders of public office should take decisions solely in terms of the public interest. They should not do so in order to gain financial or other material benefits for themselves, their family, or their friends.

Integrity

Holders of public office should not place themselves under any financial or other obligation to outside individuals or organisations that might influence them in the performance of their official duties.

Objectivity

In carrying out public business, including making public appointments, awarding contracts, or recommending individuals for rewards and benefits, holders of public office should make choices on merit.

Accountability

Holders of public office are accountable for their decisions and actions to the public and must submit themselves to whatever scrutiny is appropriate to their office.

Openness

Holders of public office should be as open as possible about all the decisions and actions that they take. They should give reasons for their decisions and restrict information only when the wider public interest clearly demands.

Honesty

Holders of public office have a duty to declare any private interests relating to their public duties and to take steps to resolve any conflicts arising in a way that protects the public interest.

Leadership

Holders of public office should promote and support these principles by leadership and example.

 

These principles were set out by the Committee on Standards in Public Life

The Scottish Code of Good HE Governance also refers to the Nine Principles of Public Life in Scotland, which, in addition to the above, refer to Duty and Respect

Public Service

Holders of public office have a duty to act in the interests of the public body of which they are a Board member and to act in accordance with the core tasks of the body.

Respect

Holders of public office must respect fellow members of their public body and employees of the body and the role they play, treating them with courtesy at all times.