That was one of the gifts that has been declared in the States police’s gifts register. And, specifically, they were packets of Northern-Irish brand Tayto crisps, though it is not clear which flavour, or flavours, were included.
Beyond potato snacks it seems chocolates, flowers and wine are the ‘thank you’ of choice.
Information released following a freedom of information request shows there were 14 declared gifts in 2017, with six having been declared so far this year. Some of the registered presents were made up of more than one item.
The States police’s official policy is for gifts worth more than £25 to be approved by a senior officer, while those under that value do not need to be cleared. Officers are, though, reminded that the principle of avoiding any accusations of being unduly influenced always applies. The gifts included 11 boxes of chocolates, three bottles of wine, a six-pack of ales, and a batch of cupcakes.
The States of Jersey Police policy states: ‘There is a risk that police officers and police staff may be unduly influenced by the receipt of gifts and hospitality, or, alternatively, could be open to accusations of being unduly influenced. In order to minimise the risk, it is the force’s requirement for a gifts and hospitality register to be maintained. This new policy includes those gifts including hospitality both offered to and given by staff.’
If you thought accepting a gift was easy, officers are asked to consider eight questions when faced with a token of appreciation:
1. Why is the offer being made?
2. What are the background circumstances to it?
3. Does the donor feel obliged to make the offer?
4. What does the donor expect in return?
5. What could be the outcome for the service or me if I accept or decline?
6. Is it an integral and logical part of the business relationship or process?
7. What advice would my manager give if he/she were with me?
8. Would I be able to justify its acceptance to the public?
We now know that accepting Tayto crisps, described by manufacturers as ‘lovingly made in our factory based at Tandragee Castle in the heart of the countryside in County Armagh’, passes the eight-question test.
