Yes, fair point. That is an astonishing lashing out that doesn't help the case for openness and identification, or for defending Mr Meacock. It does make for an amusing image of Spitting Image satire though.
Thanks for the answer - I'm new to all of this and learning. I hope that the Local Government Ombudsman and District Auditor are truly independent and have genuine powers. I remain sceptical until knowing more. I also wonder if they have the dedication, tenacity and enthusiasm of Elizabeth Filkin.
The problem with the majority of regulatory bodies is that they are ineffectual with few powers and/or are self regulating with a protective self interest instinct. The Press Complaints Commission is one example. The General Medical Council is another.
It is also fair to point out that corporate greed remains relatively unchecked. The large salary increases, huge bonuses, share schemes, pensions and farewell pay offs, guaranteed regardless of failure are all self regulated which is why they get away with it. Peter Bonfield at BT epitomises all of that and it is an affront to everyone else. This also featured on last night's Question Time and as was mentioned, the £3 million total package puts into perspective the £9,000 referred to with Henry McLeish, First Minister for Scotland. The proposed new accountability to shareholders also lacks real bite, unfortunately. They can vote their disapproval of salary increases and other payments but with no power to actually change them.
When I talk about standards, I mean for them apply to both public and private sectors. You can see why I don't take everything said at face value. As they say, the devil is in the detail. |
