Anti Money Laundering Policy

Money laundering is the term used for a number of offences involving the proceeds of crime or terrorist funds. Although the term is often used when describing the activities of organised crime, to most people who come across it or are affected by it, money laundering involves a suspicion that someone they know is benefiting financially from dishonest activities.

In recent years, new laws have been passed which shift significantly the burden for identifying acts of money laundering to organisations and their employees. Heavy penalties, including imprisonment, have been prescribed for those who are convicted of breaking the law by not informing the authorities when they suspect money laundering is taking place.

Essex County Council's policy is to prevent wherever possible the Council or its staff being exposed to money laundering, to identify the potential areas where it may occur, and to comply with all legal and regulatory requirements, especially with regard to the reporting of actual or suspected cases. To implement this policy, the Council has nominated Philip Thomson as Money Laundering Responsible Officer (MLRO) to be responsible for anti-money laundering measures within the organisation, assisted by Alex Hallam, Deputy County Solicitor.

However, we cannot stress too strongly that it is every member of staff's responsibility to be vigilant.

We have an Anti Money Laundering Policy that describes what constitutes money laundering and what you should do if you suspect that money laundering is taking place. View Policy

If you have any questions in relation to the Anti Money Laundering Policy, or if you wish to report any suspicions that money laundering is taking place, please contact:

Philip Thomson, Essex County Solicitor
Tel 01245 506760
email: philip.thomson@essex.gov.uk