Transparency

Being open and transparent is a key part of the way we operate. We are committed, in principle and in practice, to maximum transparency, consistent with good governance and commercial confidentiality.

We voluntarily issue detailed financial, operational, and sustainable development performance data through a number of channels including our Annual Report. We provide information to the media, through our own website, and directly to the relevant agencies in the countries where we operate. We also give investor presentations and seminars on our business strategy and performance.

We seek and welcome constructive criticism. We have a Groupwide, internal "whistle blowing" programme called Speak-OUT . Through Speak-OUT, employees can report concerns about any aspect of the business, or behavior of individuals, including suspicion of violations of financial reporting or environmental procedures. Speak-OUT is independently administered, confidential and available in all languages spoken across Rio Tinto. Employees can use Speak-OUT without fear of recrimination. We have a process to investigate any matters reported through Speak-OUT, with clear lines of reporting and responsibility.

We work with external groups to further our commitment to transparency.

Since its launch in 2002, Rio Tinto has expressly supported the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), which aims to strengthen governance by improving transparency and accountability in the extractive sector. Our business units support and promote the EITI and its implementation in those countries where we have projects or mining revenue generating operations.

The International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM) of which Rio Tinto is a member, endorses, supports and promotes the EITI among its members and represents the mining sector on the EITI Board.

We continue to support Transparency International, a global civil society organisation leading the fight against bribery and corruption. We were one of the original corporate members of the joint business and civil society steering committee which, under the chairmanship of Transparency International, drafted the Business Principles for Countering Bribery. We are making an additional financial contribution over three years to help produce a tool kit that companies can use to introduce and implement effective anti corruption programmes.