Page 315 - Week 01 - Thursday, 11 December 2008
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(ii) where appropriate, opportunity should be given for public input into the legislative process; and
(iii) parliaments should, where relevant, be given the opportunity to consider international instruments or regional conventions agreed to by governments.
(i) Oversight of Government
The promotion of zero-tolerance for corruption is vital to good governance. A transparent and accountable government, together with freedom of expression, encourages the full participation of its citizens in the democratic process. Steps which may be taken to encourage public sector accountability include:
(i) The establishment of scrutiny bodies and mechanisms to oversee government, enhances public confidence in the integrity and acceptability of government’s activities. Independent bodies such as public accounts committees, ombudsmen, human rights commissions, auditors-general, anti-corruption commissions, information commissioners and similar oversight institutions can play a key role in enhancing public awareness of good governance and rule of law issues. Governments are encouraged to establish or enhance appropriate oversight bodies in accordance with national circumstances.
(ii) Government’s transparency and accountability is promoted by an independent and vibrant media which is responsible, objective and impartial and which is protected by law in its freedom to report and comment upon public affairs.
(j) Civil Society
Parliaments and governments should recognise the role that civil society plays in the implementation of the Commonwealth’s fundamental values and should strive for a constructive relationship with civil society to ensure that there is broader opportunity for lawful participation in the democratic process.
(3) This resolution has effect from the commencement of the Seventh Assembly and continues in force unless and until amended or repealed by this or subsequent Assembly.
The government is pleased today to move this motion creating a continuing resolution of the Assembly endorsing the Latimer House principles. At their meeting in St Vincent and the Grenadines in November 2002, commonwealth law ministers gave consideration to a set of guidelines on good practice governing relations between the executive, parliament and the judiciary.
The purpose of these principles or guidelines was to establish a framework for the promotion of the rule of law, good governance and respect for human rights. These
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