One of the clauses in the employment contracts our staff signs deals with confidentiality.
It’s a standard clause which most private businesses require of their staff.
That requirement is even more important in the public service so I am pleased the States Services Commissioner has been asked to investigate leaks of cabinet papers about mining on conservation land and changes to the state sector:
Commissioner Mr Rennie said the unauthorised release of Government information has the potential to seriously undermine trust in the Public Service.
The government ought to consult its ministries when developing policy.
But if Ministers can’t trust staff to maintain confidentiality during policy development they are going to be much less willing to consult and much less open when they do.
That is not good for government or democracy.
