Workers caught downloading games, creating a blog or buying on-line could face the sack under new rules designed to police Walsall Council’s email and internet systems.

A number of investigations into the alleged misuse of the perk have already been carried out but Caroline Lawrence, human resources account manager, refused to say how many had taken place or give details.

A new policy has been drawn up and, for the first time, it talks specifically about blogging, gaming and buying electronically, using sites such as ebay.

It also spells out the consequences of misuse to Walsall Council staff in black and white.

Workers who flout the rules will have the privilege of using the council’s internet and email services taken off them and could face disciplinary action, including dismissal.

The internal audit service found that there were holes in the previous policy, last updated in September 2001, which prompted this revision. Councillors are also covered in the document.

The policy states personal emails can be sent and received as long as the content will not embarrass the council.    

Walsall Council Standards Committee will be asked to approve the policy at a meeting later this month.

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