MPs launch ethics inquiry

24 Nov 05
An influential committee of MPs has launched an inquiry into the ethical regulation of government.

25 November 2005

An influential committee of MPs has launched an inquiry into the ethical regulation of government.

The inquiry will focus on watchdogs such as the Committee on Standards in Public Life and the Advisory Committee on Business Appointments, which have been at the centre of recent controversies over alleged ministerial misconduct. The civil service commissioners and commissioner for public appointments are also likely to come under the scrutiny of the Public Administration Select Committee.

The PASC is gathering evidence and witnesses on the accountability, independence and contribution to public administration made by non-statutory watchdogs set up by royal prerogative.

An 'issues and questions' paper, prepared by the committee, notes that while the National Audit Office has strong accountability links to Parliament, such independence 'becomes less marked or may disappear altogether' for non-statutory bodies. The paper questions whether bodies that rely on the Cabinet Office for their 'pay and rations', are housed in government buildings and, in some cases, staffed by seconded civil servants, can truly act as independent arbiters.

The paper also asks whether the current emphasis placed on the delivery of public services through entrepreneurial and innovative providers has led to a slip in ethical regulation.

PFnov2005

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