“Public sector professionalism is important to the National Government. The professionalism we value is the public service telling the Government what it doesn’t want hear. Ministers may well disagree with the advice they receive, but open and respectful debate is the best way to make progress.” Fine words from Bill English back in September 2009, speaking to a packed audience of public servants at the Institute of Public Administration.
The reality is turning out to be somewhat different.
Vernon Small’s story in the Dom Post says that the Ministry of Justice has been blocked from giving policy advice to the select committee considering the ‘three strikes’ law.
So much for “free and frank advice”. Contrary to Bill English’s rhetoric, it appears we have got a government that doesn’t want to hear anything that doesn’t fit with its own ideas. I presume the Ministry of Justice has research and policy findings that cast doubt on the effectiveness of a three strikes law. Important information to hear, you’d think, if you were planning to introduce a piece of legislation.
It’s a shameful decision on the part of National and Act to gag the public servants who have important information that should be listened to. The Government, of course, doesn’t have to follow that advice – they are the ones elected to make the law, not officials – but good law needs to be based on good information and a rational assessment of the implications.
It’s a weak government that can’t cope with contrary views. And a bad move on Simon Power’s part to meekly stand aside and let the police lead the policy work on this law. That’s not their job and he must know that. If he doesn’t support this law, then he should show some leadership.
