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Article 11: Government Audit And Complaint Services

Description

The requirement for auditing Government departments and public bodies; open oversight of broadcasting, Freedom of Information and the provision of Ombudsman services.

Debate

Section 11.1. The Auditor-General service is responsible for auditing central government departments, government agencies, non-departmental and local government bodies and has competence to investigate any irregularities alleged to have been committed by any of these bodies.

1 comment · 16 Aug 2020
Debate

Section 11.2. The Public Services Ombudsman has the duty to investigate complaints of maladministration, injustice, neglect of duty, incompetence, delay, or mistake, alleged to have been committed by, or to have been caused by Ministers, civil servants, local government bodies, public utilities, or other public authorities.

1 comment · 16 Aug 2020
Debate

Section 11.3. The Auditor-General and the Ombudsman have full powers of investigation, including access to all records and correspondence, and the right to summon and subpoena witnesses, and hear evidence on oath. They submit annual reports of their activities to Parliament and Regional Councils but are independent of the Government in the exercise of their functions, with a duty to act impartially.

1 comment · 16 Aug 2020
Debate

Section 11.4. There will be an impartial Broadcasting and Media Audit Board with the authority and competence to ensure the accuracy, truthfulness, and good, non-deceptive practice for all media outlets seeking accreditation in Scotland.

4 comments · 16 Aug 2020

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