The Ethical Standards in Public Life etc (Scotland) Act 2000 introduced a new ethical framework for public life in Scotland. As one of the earliest statutes passed by the Scottish Parliament, the Act underlines the strong commitment to the promotion of high standards in public life by the Scottish Government and the Parliament itself.
The Code of Conduct for Councillors and the individual Codes of Conduct for certain Devolved Public Bodies, including the Crofters Commission, have been approved and came into effect on 1 May 2003.
The Standards Commission for Scotland is responsible for the enforcement of the Codes. It also has responsibility for issuing guidance to assist Councillors and Members.
The promotion of high standards in public life is essential to ensure and reinforce public confidence in the activities and responsibilities of Public Bodies. The Commission wishes to work in partnership with those who serve the people and communities of Scotland to ensure that, together, the highest possible standards of conduct in public life can be secured.