Anti-Corruption Authority Bill: Protecting Confidential Information and Fighting Corruption
The Government of Gibraltar has introduced a new bill aimed at strengthening the fight against corruption in the territory. The Anti-Corruption Authority Bill 2022 outlines the powers and responsibilities of the newly established Anti-Corruption Authority, including the protection of confidential information and guidance on procedures to prevent corruption.
Protecting Confidential Information
The bill emphasizes the importance of protecting confidential information that may include personal data. In accordance with data protection legislation, the Anti-Corruption Authority must ensure that all personal data is processed securely and in compliance with relevant laws.
- Ensure secure processing of personal data
- Comply with relevant data protection laws
Guidance and Cooperation Agreements
The Anti-Corruption Authority will issue guidance on procedures to prevent corruption, as well as cooperate with public authorities to exchange information. The bill outlines specific requirements for confidentiality and consent when exchanging sensitive information.
- Issue guidance on procedures to prevent corruption
- Cooperate with public authorities to exchange information
- Outline specific requirements for confidentiality and consent
Investigations and Reports
The bill enables the Anti-Corruption Authority to investigate suspected corrupt conduct and requires the establishment of effective systems for detection and investigation. Investigations must be conducted in private, but the authority may discontinue an investigation if it does not disclose any corrupt conduct or if it is more appropriately dealt with by another public authority.
- Investigate suspected corrupt conduct
- Establish effective systems for detection and investigation
- Conduct investigations in private
- Discontinue investigations if no corrupt conduct is found
Reporting Corruption
The bill allows anyone to make a report about a matter that concerns corrupt conduct to the Anti-Corruption Authority. The authority must establish arrangements for receiving and investigating reports, including secure communication channels and procedures for protecting personal data.
- Allow reporting of corrupt conduct
- Establish arrangements for receiving and investigating reports
- Secure communication channels
- Procedures for protecting personal data
Power to Suspend Investigations
In cases where the subject matter of an investigation is already being investigated by the Royal Gibraltar Police or is before a court in Gibraltar, the Anti-Corruption Authority may suspend its consideration of the report or investigation pending the final resolution of the matter.
- Suspend investigations if already being investigated by another authority
- Suspend investigations if before a court in Gibraltar
The bill aims to strengthen the fight against corruption in Gibraltar and ensure that confidential information is protected. The government hopes that the new legislation will help to maintain public trust and confidence in the authorities.