
It has been a difficult few weeks for politicians here in the UK as the shortcomings of an outdated expenses system, and the frailty of human behaviour, have been exposed for all to see. It is no doubt a sad but important reminder of the importance of transparency in modern society. The very process of shining a light on the activities of both public and private sector organisations is a most efficient way in which to reveal inappropriate behaviour in the knowledge that the checks and balances that exist in society today will effect change. Personally, and I think I speak for many people, transparency is a critical mechanism that needs to be harnessed more in the push to rebuild and maintain public trust in those institutions critical to our way of life. It is a far more potent weapon than pages of new guidelines and regulations focused on processes and controls. Tell us what you're doing and why you're doing it and let society judge whether it’s right or wrong. That well used adage, of "How would you feel if this matter appeared on the front page of The Times?" is the ultimate test.
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