The oil and gas sector has seen the most prosecutions for bribery and corruption in the UK, according to an analysis of completed cases.
The sector was the subject of the highest number of cases over the past four years, according to the Ernst & Young UK Bribery Digest, which reviews completed bribery and corruption cases in the UK.
Of 26 corruption and bribery cases since 2008, the oil and gas sector made up nearly one-fifth of prosecutions.
Ernst & Young said oil and gas was traditionally seen as higher risk because it operates in difficult environments.
Joint ventures involving oil and gas businesses, other companies, foreign governments and state-owned entities continue to be a feature of the industry, and carry corruption risks. Those involved in joint ventures are at risk of being liable for any bribes or corrupt activity by any partners acting on their behalf.
Jonathan Middup, UK head of Ernst & Young’s anti-bribery and corruption team, said: “There is no suggestion that individuals or companies that operate in the sector are more corrupt, and in fact the corporate compliance structure evident in the world of oil and gas should be the envy of many others.
“The findings have more to do with the nature and location of operations specific to the sector. Many operations are developed in countries with higher levels of corruption, making global operations inherently risky.”
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