Following widespread public criticism over a contentious trade regulation introduced by a ministry, a parliamentary oversight committee demands that the senior civil servant who drafted the technical framework appear for public cross-examination to face political query and disciplinary action. Based on the constitutional conventions governing public administration, how should the Minister handle this demand?
- Decline to expose the official to legislative sanction and accept full political responsibility for the policy before parliament.Answer
- BCompel the officer to appear before parliament, because the rule of anonymity applies strictly during general election periods.
- CPenalize the officer for official misconduct, as civil servants are constitutionally forbidden from advising ministers on policy formulation.
- DRelinquish ministerial leadership to the officer, since non-elected public officials hold ultimate constitutional immunity from political control.
Answer
The Minister should decline to expose the official to legislative sanction and accept full political responsibility for the policy before parliament.
Under the constitutional principle of civil service anonymity paired with ministerial responsibility, career civil servants are shielded from public praise, political criticism, and direct legislative attack. They provide expert, non-partisan advice in confidence. The political head of the ministry (the Minister) takes full public and political responsibility for all policies enacted under their administration.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Civil Service Anonymity and Ministerial Responsibility
Estimated Time:1m 30s