The Editor, Sir:

Before we cast our precious votes on August 27, it is essential that we consider the qualities of the persons to whom we will entrust our lives for the next five years. In 1997, the British Prime Minister Tony Blair commissioned an inquiry into standards of British public life, concentrating on Members of Parliament, ministers and civil servants. The inquiry was led by a Lord Nolan and the committee’s findings and recommendations developed ‘The Seven Principles of Public Life,’ which I commend to my fellow Jamaicans. These principles are :

Selflessness

Holders of public office should take decisions solely in terms of the public interest. They should not do so in order to gain financial or other material benefits for themselves, their family, or their friends.

Integrity

Holders of public office should not place themselves under any financial or other obligation to outside individuals or organisations that might influence them in the performance of their official duties.

Objectivity

In carrying out public business, including making public appointments, awarding contracts, or recommending individuals for rewards and benefits, holders of public office should make choices on merit.

Accountability

Holders of public office are accountable for their decisions and actions to the public and must submit themselves to whatever scrutiny is appropriate to their office.

Openness

Holders of public office should be as open as possible about all the decisions and actions that they take. They shouldgive reasons for their decisions and restrict information only when the wider public interest clearly demands.

Honesty

Holders of public office have a duty to declare any private interests relating to their public duties and to take steps to resolve any conflicts arising in a way that protects the public interests.

Leadership

Holders of public office should promote and support these principles by leadership and example.

We should not only consider these principles before we vote but equally important, insist on our public servants adhering to them both in theory and practice.

I am, etc.,

COLLIN GREENLAND

Cgreeny.collin@gmail.com

St. Andrew