17/02/2010

Manslaughter Firms To 'Go Public'

Companies convicted of corporate manslaughter could be forced to take out adverts publicising their conviction as a result of new measures which come into effect today.

Courts will now be able to hand out publicity orders to firms and public bodies where gross corporate health and safety failures caused a person's death.

Companies can already be hit with an unlimited fine or be forced to improve safety in the workplace.

Justice Minister Maria Eagle said fines hit irresponsible companies in their wallet, but public image is also extremely important.

"Forcing corporations and organisations to publicise their conviction will be a powerful deterrent, making them think of the reputational as well as financial risk of not taking their health and safety responsibilities seriously," she said.

The innovative new publicity orders, thought to be the first of their kind to be introduced in the UK, could compel companies to inform shareholders, customers and (in the case of local authorities, hospital trusts and police forces) local people of the conviction, giving details of the case, the fine imposed and the any remedial work they have been ordered to do.

The publicity order could require the company to put a statement on its website or make an announcement in a newspaper.

(PR/GK)

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