ABSTRACT

First published in 1997, this book provides an assessment of the main issues and deliberations of the Wilton Park Conference, based largely on the theme of standards in public life and consideration of measures which may be taken to allay public concern of their erosion. The book is a paraphrased report of the deliberations, together with evaluation and commentary. The conference attended by parliamentarians (including presiding officers in ministerial positions), senior civil servants, parliamentary staff, journalists and others from a wide range of countries, most but not all being Commonwealth members.

chapter 1|10 pages

Setting the Scene

chapter 2|6 pages

The Eroding Sovereignty of Legislators

chapter 4|10 pages

Changing the Public Perception

chapter 5|6 pages

Political Reporting

chapter 6|12 pages

Ensuring Ethical Standards in Public Life

chapter 7|8 pages

The Role of Political Parties

chapter 8|8 pages

The Evolving Civil Service

chapter 9|8 pages

Direct Democracy: The Way Forward?

chapter 10|4 pages

Who do Politicians Really Represent?

chapter 11|8 pages

Conclusion

part |2 pages

Appendices

chapter 1|80 pages

Standards in Public Life

chapter 2|46 pages

Rebuilding Trust

chapter 3|4 pages

Committee Systems

chapter 4|4 pages

Making Laws Make Sense