Code of corporate governance

A code of corporate governance is a statement of the system by which a local authority directs and controls the exercise of its functions and how it interacts with the local community.

Aspects of corporate governance find expression in the everyday practices and procedures of a local authority. An overarching code of corporate governance aims to:

• stimulate confidence in the activities of local government, its politicians and employees, and the way the authority goes about its business
• focus the minds of those involved in local government on making decisions in a proper way and to engage with local stakeholders
• assist with continuous improvement in the delivery of services, and to minimise the authority’s exposure to risk.