Free ACCA Ethics and Professional Skills Questions and Answers — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which of the following is a fundamental principle outlined in ACCA's Code of Ethics and Conduct?
- Creativity
- Independence
- Integrity (Correct answer)
- Efficiency
Correct answer: Integrity
Integrity is one of the five fundamental principles of ethics for professional accountants, as outlined in the ACCA's Code of Ethics and Conduct (which aligns with the IESBA Code). It requires members to be straightforward and honest in all professional and business relationships. Upholding integrity builds trust and ensures the reliability of professional services.
Question 2: What is the primary purpose of the ACCA Ethics and Professional Skills module?
- To test technical accounting knowledge
- To assess time management skills
- To develop ethical decision-making and professional behaviors (Correct answer)
- To focus on financial reporting skills
Correct answer: To develop ethical decision-making and professional behaviors
The ACCA Ethics and Professional Skills module is designed to equip future professional accountants with the ethical understanding and practical skills necessary for their careers. It focuses on developing judgment, decision-making abilities, and professional behaviors in real-world scenarios. This ensures that ACCA members can apply ethical principles effectively and act professionally in complex situations.
Question 3: What should an ACCA member do if asked to engage in a transaction that violates professional ethics?
- Comply to maintain client relationships
- Consult a legal advisor
- Refuse the engagement and report it if necessary (Correct answer)
- Seek to adjust the transaction to appear ethical
Correct answer: Refuse the engagement and report it if necessary
An ACCA member has a professional and ethical obligation to uphold the fundamental principles of ethics, including integrity and professional behavior. Engaging in a transaction that violates these principles would compromise their professional standing and potentially lead to disciplinary action. Therefore, the member must refuse the engagement and, depending on the severity and nature of the violation, consider reporting it to the appropriate authorities or professional body.
Question 4: Which of the following best describes "professional competence and due care"?
- Being innovative in professional tasks
- Keeping skills and knowledge up-to-date to deliver competent services (Correct answer)
- Following company policies blindly
- Prioritizing personal interests over client needs
Correct answer: Keeping skills and knowledge up-to-date to deliver competent services
Professional competence and due care is a fundamental ethical principle requiring professional accountants to maintain their professional knowledge and skill at the level required to ensure that clients or employers receive competent professional service. It also means acting diligently and in accordance with applicable technical and professional standards when providing services. This continuous development ensures high-quality service delivery.
Question 5: What is a conflict of interest in professional accounting?
- Disagreement between colleagues
- When personal interests clash with professional duties (Correct answer)
- Errors in financial reporting
- Competition between two firms
Correct answer: When personal interests clash with professional duties
A conflict of interest arises when a professional accountant's personal interests, relationships, or other duties could improperly influence their professional judgment or actions. This situation can compromise objectivity and integrity, leading to a perception of bias or unfairness. Accountants must identify and manage such conflicts to ensure they act in the best interest of their clients or employers.
Which of the following is a fundamental principle outlined in ACCA's Code of Ethics and Conduct?