Government transparency looked at in Guernsey

Publishing the salaries and expenses of politicians and releasing transcripts of States meetings have been suggested in a report on freedom of information.

The Information Strategy document recommended a three-year plan, aimed at improving the relationship between the States and the community.

The report, released by the Policy Council, suggested a range of measures for increasing transparency.

A final report on the matter is due before the States in early 2012.

The idea of keeping written transcripts of the monthly government's meeting was an idea that had already been proposed by the States.

Transparency

The document also suggested that the island's government could use social media to interact with islanders, and allow residents to attend all States department meetings.

The report was written by Belinda Crowe, a former senior civil servant at the Ministry of Justice in the UK.

Ms Crowe said: "The aim of the strategy is to integrate good practise into the culture and working of government."

Deputy Lyndon Trott, Guernsey's Chief Minister, said: "Openness and transparency is absolutely central to full and proper accountability. I welcome this timely paper."

However, he said: "I do not advocate an information free for all, and I never call for legislation unless it proves necessary."

Guernsey has no freedom of information legislation, such as that found in the UK.