Reshuffled Cabinet can now focus on reform

With the Cabinet reshuffled, the Government can focus on the radical reform of what it called "an outdated system of administration".

An easy win would be to “publish who does what and to whom they are answerable,” as recommended by Independent Panel on Strengthening Civil Service Accountability and Performance. This would not need new legislation, as the 1997 Freedom of Information Act provides a basis for action.

This Act makes it mandatory to publish certain information about public bodies. Such information includes “the names and designations of the members of staff of that body responsible” for implementing Freedom of Information. This includes the publication of information regarding the rules of decision-making by public bodies. Furthermore, the 1997 Act also specifies the publication of “general description of its structure and organisation, functions, powers and duties, any services it provides for the public and the procedures it provides for the public.”