Act will come into force on 1 July as the government publishes long-awaited guidance

Justice minister Ken Clarke unveiled long-awaited guidance on the Bribery Act today, after months of concern about the potential scope of the legislation.

Clarke said the law will go into force on 1 July and dismissed claims the legislation will result in increased costs for businesses.

Clarke said: 鈥淪ome have asked whether businesses can afford this legislation 鈥� especially at a time of economic recovery.

鈥淏ut the choice is a false one. We don鈥檛 have to decide between tackling corruption and supporting growth. Addressing bribery is good for business because it creates the conditions for free markets to flourish.鈥�

He added the act would be implemented in a 鈥渨orkable, common sense way鈥�.

Experts welcomed the revised guidance, which provides greater clarity on issues such as corporate hospitality.

John Smart, partner at Ernst & Young, said: 鈥淭he revised guidance now sets the right tone and provides clarifications and examples that will be welcomed by the business community.鈥�

Firms now have three months to make sure they fully comply with the Act.

The guidance can be found and the Serious Fraud Office鈥檚 prosecution guidance can be found .

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