BOSSES in Lancashire are becoming more ethical, according to a survey.

One in four senior executives questioned in the region said they believed that putting ethically correct policies into place can boost business growth.

"In the '80s a lot of people were motivated by money but times have changed and firms are now trying to find a balance between shareholder value and ethical belief," said Bob Rawkins at BDO Stoy Hayward's Preston office.

"Ethics is more than PR and image building; it is about how a business deals with all its commercial relationships including staff. Ultimately better relationships means better profits."

But according to the survey business morality depends on the sum involved.

If a bank or the Inland Revenue made an error in a firm's favour, nearly half of the firms would stay silent if the mistake only involved £10.

A further one in then would keep the money if it was only £100. However around 90 per cent would own up if the amount was as high as £1,000.

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