Business Partner Code of Conduct
At Mewburn Ellis, we are committed to conducting our business in an ethical and socially responsible manner. We recognise the importance of working with business partners who share these values and adhere to high standards of conduct. This Code of Conduct outlines the principles and expectations we have to ensure that our business relationships are built on integrity, respect, and responsible practices.
Compliance with Laws and Regulations:
Business partners must comply with all applicable laws, regulations and legal requirements in the jurisdictions where they operate. This includes, but is not limited to, laws related to labour practice and standards. This includes employment, compliance with child labour laws, anti-discrimination practices, health and safety standards, working conditions, working hours, compensation, right to association and freely chosen employment, environmental protection, anti-corruption, and data protection.
Ethical Business Practices:
Business partners must uphold the highest standards of ethics and integrity in their business practices. This includes:
- Prohibition of Corruption and Bribery: they must not offer, promise, give, solicit, or accept bribes or other improper advantages. They should comply with all applicable anti-corruption laws and regulations and have adequate anti-fraud processes in place.
- Conflicts of Interest: they must avoid any conflicts of interest that may compromise their ability to act in the best interest of Mewburn Ellis or result in unfair business practices.
- Fair Competition: they shall compete fairly and ethically in accordance with applicable competition laws. They must not engage in anti-competitive practices, collusion, or other activities that restrict free and fair competition.
- Intellectual Property: they shall respect and protect the intellectual property rights of others. They should not use unauthorised or counterfeit materials, software, or other intellectual property in their operations.
Labour, Human Rights & Modern Slavery Act:
Business partners must adhere to the Modern Slavery Act and uphold the fundamental rights of workers and ensure fair and safe working conditions. This includes:
- Forced Labour: they shall not use any form of forced, bonded, or involuntary labour. All employment must be voluntary, and workers should have the freedom to leave employment after reasonable notice.
- Child Labour: they must not employ workers below the legal minimum age for employment. They should comply with applicable laws and regulations regarding the employment of young workers.
- Working Conditions: they shall provide a safe and healthy working environment for their employees. They should comply with applicable occupational health and safety laws and regulations and laws about working hours, and actively work to prevent accidents, injuries, and work-related illnesses.
- Pay: they must follow all applicable laws and regulations with respect to working hours and days of rest. Suppliers should also ensure that all employees receive at least the legally mandated minimum wage and benefits for the country in which they are employed.
- Non-Discrimination: they must treat all workers with dignity and respect, regardless of their race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic.
Environmental Responsibility:
They should minimise their environmental impact and promote sustainable practices. This includes:
- Environmental Compliance: they shall comply with all applicable environmental laws, regulations, and standards. They should obtain and maintain all necessary permits, licenses, and approvals for their operations.
- Resource Conservation: they should strive to conserve natural resources, reduce waste generation, and promote recycling and reuse wherever possible.
- Pollution Prevention: they must take appropriate measures to prevent pollution, including air emissions, water contamination, and soil degradation. They should implement and maintain effective environmental management systems.
- Product Sustainability: they should work towards providing products and services that are environmentally friendly, energy-efficient, and promote sustainability.
Confidentiality and Data Protection:
They must handle confidential information and personal data with the utmost care and in compliance with applicable data protection laws. They should establish and maintain appropriate security measures to protect against unauthorised access, disclosure, alteration, or destruction of data.