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Public views sought on bribery legislation

Monday, 25 June 2012

Public views are being sought on plans to strengthen the Isle of Man’s legislation to combat bribery.

The proposed introduction of the Bribery Bill 2012 will bring the Isle of Man further into line with evolving international standards and ensure there are no obstacles in the way of Manx businesses trading with other jurisdictions, particularly the UK. People are being invited to submit their views about the draft Bill, which is intended to replace the Corruption Act 2008, during a public consultation starting today (Monday, June 25).

The Bribery Bill 2012 is being progressed by the Department of Home Affairs which is seeking the views of Members of Tynwald, local authorities, businesses and the public over a six-week period concluding on August 7.

Minister Juan Watterson MHK said:

‘Government is committed to promoting the Isle of Man as an open, transparent and well-regulated jurisdiction and to enhancing its standing in the global community. Measures against bribery are a significant factor in a country’s international reputation, so it is important to ensure the Island’s legislation meets current standards. The Isle of Man has a strong track record of complying with best practice, and the proposed legislation will ensure we are keeping pace with changes in international standards. It will also assist the local economy by ensuring that businesses in the Island are operating under similar law to their trading partners and therefore should not run into any difficulties around compliance.’

The main difference between the proposed Bill and the Island’s existing legislation is the introduction of a new offence. This will make a commercial enterprise liable to be prosecuted for failing to prevent bribery if a person associated with it commits a bribery offence anywhere in the world for the benefit of that organisation.

Views about the draft Bill, which is based on the UK Bribery Act 2010, can be submitted to the Legislation Manager, Department of Home Affairs, 88 Woodbourne Road, Douglas, IM2 3AP, or by emailing dhaconsulation@gov.im

Further details about the consultation can be accessed via the Government website here

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