Seven Principles of Public Life

Selflessness

(holders of public office should serve the public interest, not seek gains for their friends)

Integrity

(they should not place themselves under financial obligation to outsiders who might influence their duties)

Objectivity

(they should award public appointments and contracts on merit)

Accountability

(they should submit themselves to the appropriate scrutiny)

Openness

(they should give reasons for their decisions)

Honesty

(they should declare conflicts of interests)

Leadership

(they should support these principles by personal example)

- From the recommendations of a Commission set up by Prime Minister Tony Blair in U.K.