Public service independence and responsiveness: striking a balance

Source: The Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia
"The issue of public service responsiveness to ministers has been described as a ‘hardy perennial’ of public service ethics. Too much responsiveness implies a public service that has become compliant to the point of subordinating its professional integrity to the political needs of ministers. Too little, implies a public service that ignores its duty to serve ministers in favour of pursuing its own interests. A roundtable in March 2008, brought together academics, public servants (both senior and up-and-coming), ministerial advisers and former politicians to share insights and identify issues in an environment that was both supportive and challenging."