The New Zealand form of the Westminster democracy enables quick responses when required; but flexibility comes at a cost – a weak ability to hold the government to account for its actions.

New Zealand’s small population size and limited resources mean that government is the main provider of information on its social, economic and environmental performance. The information that is provided is strongest at showing financial performance. In other areas of importance, the administration can collect and release information on important issues in a way that most favourably portrays its achievements.

Information and Institutions of Government Accountability scrutinises the consequences of poor government accountability and the costs this imposes on some it its citizens. Citizens have successfully challenged government and instituted new information sources with improved outcomes for these people.

Drawing on examples of past failures of government towards its citizens, Information and Institutions of Government Accountability presents the case for improved accountability. It concludes with a description of a new institutional structure needed to oversee the provision of trustworthy information.

The New Zealand form of the Westminster democracy enables quick responses when required; but flexibility comes at a cost – a weak ability to hold the government to account for its actions.

New Zealand’s small population size and limited resources mean that government is the main provider of information on its social, economic and environmental performance. The information that is provided is strongest at showing financial performance. In other areas of importance, the administration can collect and release information on important issues in a way that most favourably portrays its achievements.

Information and Institutions of Government Accountability scrutinises the consequences of poor government accountability and the costs this imposes on some it its citizens. Citizens have successfully challenged government and instituted new information sources with improved outcomes for these people.

Drawing on examples of past failures of government towards its citizens, Information and Institutions of Government Accountability presents the case for improved accountability. It concludes with a description of a new institutional structure needed to oversee the provision of trustworthy information.

Leonard Warren Cook

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