1) Nolan Principles of Public Life https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-7-principles-...

> 5. Openness

> Holders of public office should act and take decisions in an open and transparent manner. Information should not be withheld from the public unless there are clear and lawful reasons for so doing.

> 6. Honesty

> Holders of public office should be truthful.

2) The Professional Standards Organisation's Standards for members of NHS boards and Clinical Commissioning Group governing bodies in England

> Honesty: I will act with honesty in all my actions, transactions, communications, behaviours and decision-making, and will resolve any conflicts arising from personal, professional or financial interests that could influence or be thought to influence my decisions as a board member

> Openness: I will be open about the reasoning, reasons,and processes underpinning my actions, transactions, communications, behaviours,and decision-making and about any conflicts of interest

We could argue that the principle of "Duty of Candour" applies. https://www.cqc.org.uk/guidance-providers/regulations-enforc...

In England I'd be pushing hard for these hospitals to be more open about what's happening and what they're doing to fix it.