Business integrity

Our Code of Conduct gives staff more detailed instructions on the behaviour our Business Principles require. All staff must complete training that explains what our Code of Conduct requires of them.

We also provide staff with online and face-to-face training in specific areas, including combating bribery and corruption, and complying with competition laws, as the Business Principles require. Our global helpline and supporting website allow staff and business partners to report concerns confidentially and get advice on suspected infringements of the law, our Code of Conduct or our Business Principles. We report violations of our Code of Conduct, including proven cases of bribery and fraud, to the Audit Committee of the Board of Royal Dutch Shell plc. In 2008, 204 violations of the Code of Conduct were reported (361 in 2007). As a consequence, we ended our relationship with 138 staff and contractors (151 in 2007).

Our Shell People Survey also asks all our staff confidentially whether their part of Shell is dealing with the outside world with integrity. In the 2008 Survey, 85% of staff said it was and 3% said it was not. This is in line with scores since the survey began in 1999.

• Learn more about our efforts to ensure compliance with our business principles.