He added: "Given our statutory powers and the responsibilities we carry, it is crucial for us to maintain the highest standards of behaviour, whilst living up to the expectations of the society we serve. People rightly expect us not only to be professional, but also ethical in our conduct as we go about our official duties, as well as in our private lives. Therefore to further promote our values of integrity and honesty, and to help maintain public confidence, a set of behavioural guidelines have been drawn up. These guidelines seek to define the parameters of the behaviour expected of Force members so that we can all determine how to conduct ourselves on and off duty. I believe adhering to these guidelines will help ensure the Force remains an organisation of high integrity."

Force members should:

* oppose and report corrupt practices and misconduct;

* avoid undesirable association other than in the course of duty;

* not compromise or abuse their official position;

* avoid conflict of interest with official duties;

* protect personal data and classified information;

* be fair and consistent in all their dealings and do not discriminate against anyone, and

* refrain from excessive gambling, highly speculative investments, over-borrowing, and getting into a position where debts may become unmanageable.

Whilst the behavioural guidelines do not form part of the Force's discipline code, they are closely related to Force Values and can have a bearing on how discipline cases are handled. Any breach of the guidelines, whether on or off duty, will most likely damage the public's trust and confidence in the Force and, under certain circumstances, may be a factor in any subsequent criminal or disciplinary proceedings.

"Four Way Values" Judgment

To assist Force members in deciding whether their conduct may breach the guidelines, officers are encouraged to apply the "Four Way Values" Judgment. Such process should prove particularly valuable when faced with ethical dilemmas.

* Is my action or behaviour in accordance with Force values?

* Will my action or behaviour uphold the public's trust and confidence in the Force?

* Can I justify my action or behaviour if called upon to do so?

If any answers to the above questions are negative, the action or behaviour is not in accordance with the Force values.

The Behavioural Guidelines will be incorporated into future training courses. Moreover, Training Day and e-learning packages will be launched in February next year to promote the guidelines across the Force. These initiatives are being supplemented by a Behavioural Guidelines information booklet and a slogan/poster design competition.