This code is based on the seven principles of public life set down by Lord Nolan as chairman of the Committee on Standards in Public Life. The seven principles are selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership. It is also based on the ‘Franks principles’ of openness, fairness and impartiality. The principles set out below are on top of the duties and responsibilities inspectors have under the Civil Service Code.

1. Inspectors make their decisions and recommendations in the public interest.

2. Inspectors do not judge a case before they have considered the evidence.

3. Inspectors are not involved in cases where they have a financial interest or a personal interest that may cause them to be seen as biased.

4. Inspectors are not influenced by irrelevant considerations or outside influences when making their decisions and recommendations.

5. Inspectors refuse all gifts, hospitality and other benefits offered by people who have an interest in a case, other than those of little or no value.

6. Inspectors handle cases as quickly as possible.

7. Inspectors treat each person with dignity and respect.

8. Inspectors do not discriminate against people because of their race, sex, sexuality, marital status, religion, disability, age, and so on.

9. Inspectors avoid unnecessary delay in reaching their decisions and recommendations.

10. Inspectors give reasons for their decisions and recommendations.

11. Inspectors keep their professional knowledge and skills up to date.

12. Inspectors are responsible for their decisions and recommendations.