Disclosure of interests
Disclosure of interests means communicating relevant personal, financial or other connections that could affect, or appear to affect, an individual’s judgment or duties. It helps the appropriate decision maker identify and manage conflicts. What must be disclosed, to whom and when depends on the applicable rules and circumstances. Disclosure alone does not necessarily eliminate a conflict: further steps can include independent evaluation, exclusion from a decision or declining the activity.
Worked example
A director declares that a close relative owns a company bidding for a contract. The board follows the relevant conflict procedures, considers the director’s participation and ensures an appropriately independent purchasing decision. Merely recording the relationship is not assumed sufficient.
Common mistake
Assuming a declaration automatically authorises participation or that an interest must already have caused misconduct before it becomes relevant.
Where it appears in your exams
| Qualification | Exam | Relationship | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACCA | SBL | Supporting | September 2026–June 2027 |