Scrutiny has duty to rock the boat
THERE are many advantages to a political system not based on party politics.
THERE are many advantages to a political system not based on party politics.
Instead of indulging in yah-boo politics solely designed to put the other party down, States members can take balanced views on each subject. It is not about hanging on to power so much as making the most of each four-year term.
The downside is that ministers and their departments are not challenged enough over policies. Deputies prefer to focus on their own work without delving into the inadequacies of others'. When they do take a department to task they are often blocked and lack the information to make a difference.
New Scrutiny promises to redress that balance. Gone is the discredited 'critical friend' approach, to be replaced by a committee which is not afraid to rock the boat.
And, best of all, it will all be done in public.
This is an opportunity for States members elected on a ticket of transparency and openness to pay more than lip service to the concept. Warts and all inquiries might prove uncomfortable at times – it is vital that they should be – but, as the new Scrutiny chairman says, that can be cathartic light shining into the corners of government.
The new model is loosely based on the UK parliament's Select Committee approach where ministers, top civil servants and even business leaders such as Rupert Murdoch are taken to task.
While that is a good starting point, there are lessons to be learned. Select Committees often fail to hit the target because of poor questioning. MPs, not all trained inquisitors, use their allotted time to try to score quick points rather than follow a single productive line of inquiry.
If New Scrutiny is to work, committee members must avoid the temptation to grandstand. At times they should sit back and let a professional cross-examine ministers and senior civil servants – a la Leveson – then listen to the answers.
They will also benefit greatly from good research. After a few successes Scrutiny must push for the respect it needs to hold the executive to account. If that means moving staff from overblown departments to help out then so be it.
Government will be the better for it.
