In the United Kingdom, the Nolan Principles form the cornerstone of ethical standards for those in public office, ensuring integrity, transparency, and accountability in governance.
Established in 1995 by the Committee on Standards in Public Life, these seven principles were developed in response to concerns about declining public trust in government and public institutions. Named after Lord Nolan, the committee’s first chair, they apply to elected and appointed officials, including ministers, councillors, and public servants, across central and local government, including UK councils.
What Are the Nolan Principles?
The seven Nolan Principles are:
- Selflessness: Public office holders should act solely in the public’s interest, avoiding personal gain or benefits for themselves, their family, or their friends.
- Integrity: Holders of public office should avoid conflicts of interest, refusing improper influence or gifts that could compromise their impartiality.
- Objectivity: Decisions must be made impartially, fairly, and on merit, using evidence and without bias or favouritism.
- Accountability: Public officials are answerable to the public and must submit to scrutiny to ensure transparency and compliance with their duties.
- Openness: Holders of public office should be transparent about their decisions and actions, providing information unless restricted by law or public interest.
- Honesty: Public officials must be truthful in all their dealings.
- Leadership: Those in public office should actively promote and uphold these principles through their behaviour, setting an example for others.
Their Role in UK Governance
The Nolan Principles were introduced to restore confidence in public institutions following controversies in the 1990s, such as allegations of “sleaze” in politics. They apply to a wide range of public roles, from Members of Parliament to local councillors, and are embedded in codes of conduct, such as those in council constitutions. For example, a councillor in a UK local council must adhere to these principles when representing their Ward, making planning decisions, or handling public funds.
Councils often incorporate the principles into their governance frameworks, requiring councillors to declare interests, avoid bias in regulatory roles (e.g., planning committees), and act transparently. Breaches, such as failing to disclose a financial interest, can lead to complaints, investigations, or sanctions by bodies like the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman.
Relevance Today
As of May 30, 2025, the Nolan Principles remain vital in maintaining public trust amid evolving challenges, such as digital transparency and social media scrutiny. They guide councillors in engaging with their communities, ensuring decisions reflect residents’ needs rather than personal agendas. For instance, a councillor leading a campaign in their Ward must prioritise community benefit (selflessness) and communicate openly about council actions (openness).
The principles are not legally enforceable on their own but are upheld through codes of conduct, complaints processes, and public expectations. The Committee on Standards in Public Life continues to review their application, ensuring they remain relevant in modern governance.
Conclusion
The Nolan Principles are a bedrock of ethical public service in the UK, fostering trust between citizens and those who serve them. By emphasising selflessness, integrity, and accountability, they ensure that public officials, from local councillors to national leaders, prioritise the public good. For residents engaging with their local council, these principles guarantee that their elected representatives act with fairness and transparency, strengthening the democratic process.
Sources: Based on the Committee on Standards in Public Life guidance, the Local Government Act 1972, and council codes of conduct, as per gov.uk and Local Government Association resources, accurate as of May 30, 2025.