The Planning Inspectorate - Wales

Inspectors' Code of Conduct

The principles by which Inspectors work

This code draws on the Seven Principles of Public Life set down by Lord Nolan as chairman of the committee on standards in public life (selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership) as well as the "Franks' principles" of openness, fairness and impartiality. The principles set out below are in addition to the duties and responsibilities placed on Inspectors by The Civil Service Code.

Inspectors make their decisions and recommendations in the public interest.
Inspectors do not pre-judge a case.
Inspectors are not involved in cases where they have a pecuniary interest or a personal interest that may give rise to a reasonable perception of bias.
Inspectors are not influenced by irrelevant considerations or outside influences when making their decisions and recommendations.
Inspectors refuse all gifts, hospitality and other benefits offered by parties having an interest in a case, other than those of minimal value.
Inspectors conduct cases as expeditiously as possible.
Inspectors treat each person who appears before them with dignity and respect.
Inspectors do not discriminate on the grounds of race, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, religion, disability, and age, or otherwise.
Inspectors avoid unnecessary delay in reaching their decisions and recommendations.
Inspectors give reasons for their decisions and recommendations.
Inspectors keep their professional knowledge and skills up to date.
Inspectors are accountable for their decisions and recommendations and submit themselves to whatever scrutiny is appropriate.

* Although these principles are primarily directed to Planning Inspectors they apply with equal force to all decision-makers in the Planning Inspectorate.