College Public Policy

Posted by Warwick Smith on 10 February 2010

Yesterday’s public comments on the regulation of lobbying have produced much heat and little light in today’s media. OK, I accept that the debate between my old friends Peter Bingle and Mark Adams at the CPIR didn’t generate that much airtime. But David Cameron’s speech was widely reported, albeit sadly inaccurately. 

The common theme between the events was that transparent lobbying was a force for good. Each argued for transparency. It’s difficult not to. Not because lobbying is somehow devious, nasty and evil. But just because it’s the mood of the times. It‘s what society expects. And that’s fine. So long as we all play by the same rules.                                                

But you’d think that DC was going to outlaw lobbying to read the selective quotes about secret lunches. Let me quote Cameron equally selectively in response: “lobbying is perfectly reasonable”; “lobbying often makes for better, more workable, legislation”; “It’s important that businesses, charities and other organisations feel they can make sure their voice is heard”. That’s it David. You’ve got it.

Now, how did we all miss that?

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