Supplier Code of Conduct

Introduction

This Supplier Code of Conduct outlines the expectations we have of our Suppliers and their obligations to our company. As a Supplier of goods and/or services to us, we expect you to comply with this Code of Conduct within your business and also within your own supply chain. We expect you to uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct and business practices.

Suppliers must comply with all applicable local and national laws, regulations and industry standards in their business operations.

Anti-Bribery/Corruption

Suppliers must not engage in any form of bribery, corruption, or unethical practices and must have adequate procedures to prevent such conduct. Suppliers and their employees, representatives, suppliers, and subcontractors must comply with all laws related to anti-bribery, anti-money laundering, and the prevention of fraud and other financial crimes in all countries where they conduct business, whether directly or indirectly. Our organisation operates in strict accordance with the UK Bribery Act 2010 (“Bribery Act”) and expects Suppliers to fully understand and adhere to their commitments under the Bribery Act and any local equivalent regulations.

Tax Evasion

Suppliers must comply with all tax laws and regulations in the jurisdictions where they operate, including the UK Criminal Finances Act 2017. They must enforce a zero-tolerance policy regarding any criminal facilitation, including tax evasion, and must never participate in or assist a third party in evading taxes in any jurisdiction.

Health and Safety

Suppliers must provide a safe and healthy working environment for all employees, taking necessary precautions to prevent accidents and injuries, and providing appropriate safety training and equipment. They must have procedures in place to effectively respond to emergencies including evacuation plans and first aid provisions. Additionally, Suppliers should implement and maintain occupational health and safety management practices in accordance with applicable laws and industry standards.

Labour

Suppliers must respect human rights in their operations and adhere to the standards set forth in the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This includes prohibiting forced labour, child labour, discrimination, and harassment in all forms. Suppliers must ensure that no forms of modern slavery or human trafficking are tolerated within their organisations or supply chains and must comply with the UK Modern Slavery Act 2015.

Environmental Sustainability

Suppliers must comply with all applicable environmental laws and regulations. They are encouraged to adopt environmentally responsible practices, such as reducing waste, conserving energy and water, and minimising the use of hazardous materials. Additionally, suppliers should have process in place to identify, manage, and mitigate environmental impacts.

Intellectual Property

Suppliers are required to uphold the intellectual property rights of others and must refrain from any activities involving infringement, piracy, or counterfeiting.

Conflict of Interest

Suppliers must promptly disclose any actual or potential conflicts of interest between the Supplier’s interests and those of our organisation such as a direct personal or financial interest in a business decision and take appropriate measures to avoid or mitigate them.

Data Privacy and Security

Suppliers must adhere to all relevant data protection, privacy, and information security laws and regulations. They are obligated to safeguard the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of our company’s data, along with any personal data processed during their business operations. Data must be securely deleted or returned once it is no longer needed for these purposes.

Communication and Supply Chain

Suppliers must communicate this Code of Conduct to their employees and subcontractors and must ensure their own suppliers and subcontractors are also compliant with this Code of Conduct.

Reporting and Compliance

Suppliers are required to promptly report any suspected or actual violations of this Supplier Code of Conduct and to fully cooperate with our company in investigations or audits related to their business operations.

By continuing to engage in business with our company, you acknowledge and agree to abide by this Supplier Code of Conduct. We reserve the right to terminate any business relationship with Suppliers who do not uphold these standards.

We value your dedication to these principles and anticipate continuing our partnership founded on integrity, respect, and mutual accountability.