Gifts, hospitality, entertainment and other business courtesies which are either accepted by us or offered by us to others may affect the required independence. Such gratuities may only be offered or accepted if it is usual and customary within the scope of the industry standards, is in keeping with the local, country-specific or other laws and regulations, seems appropriate and does not procure any personal influence. If we are unsure whether a gift meets these conditions, then we raise the matter with our line manager.
We are aware that it may be difficult to identify a situation where personal influence takes place. We must not accept anything if it affects our independence or influences our judgment or could lead us to award or offer contracts in a manner which is not impartial or does not conform to fair competition.
Gifts or invitations may influence the independent judgment of suppliers and customers. Before giving any gift or other business courtesy, we therefore consider whether its acceptance by the other party could limit their ability to make impartial decisions. In such cases the gratuity should not be given.
In the case of dealings with public officials or with businesspersons who are working on government contracts, special care must be taken both nationally and internationally, since the offer of even the smallest gift, modest hospitality, entertainment or other business courtesies to such a person may be considered a bribe.