National Highways has ordered its main contractors to spell out their anti-fraud and corruption policies amid concern about potential problems on major roads projects.
Malcolm Dare, commercial director at National Highways, has given Tier 1 contractors just 14 days to provide copies of their current economic crime policies and associated supporting documents.
He also wants contractors to confirm the processes and procedures they use to ensure compliance across their supply chain teams.
The crackdown follows mounting concern surrounding allegations of potential fraud and failure to procure subcontractors along agreed guidelines.
There have been investigations by the agency’s counter fraud unit into claims of corrupt practices on some smart motorway schemes where costs have spiralled.
Speaking to news portal Construction Enquirer, Malcolm Dare says: “National Highways is entrusted with billions of pounds of public money and it’s only right that we make it clear to contractors that they have a duty to maintain the very highest standards of governance and record-keeping.”
While bodies such as the National Federation of Demolition Contractors and Build UK have remained silent since eight NFDC members admitted involvement in a bid rigging ring, National Highways clearly has no tolerance for fraud and corruption practices.
