Alterations to the bribery procedures of the UK's official export agency would encourage the "worst practice" by companies operating abroad, it was claimed yesterday.

The changes mean applicants for export finance will no longer have to issue warranties covering possible corruption by companies they do not control, such as joint venture partners.

"This climb down is significant and frankly shocking. It places a real question mark over the sincerity of the government's claims to be fighting corruption," said Susan Hawley, a consultant for The Corner House.