Speakers at Government Events Social Media History 2023-05-11
2023-05-11
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
MP inquired about the number of people identified as unsuitable for speaking based on their social media history.
How many individuals has the Department identified as unsuitable for speaking at government events due to their social media activities, which could potentially harm civil service reputation?
The Cabinet Office has created guidelines to protect civil service values from individuals and organisations promoting hate or discriminatory beliefs. However, there is no central record of speakers identified as unsuitable, and such cases are expected to be rare due to the common-sense nature of these guidelines.
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Assessment & feedback
Providing a specific count of those deemed unsuitable for speaking engagements based on social media records.
The Guidance Is Described As 'Codified Common Sense'
Response accuracy
Q2
Direct Answer
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Context
MP questioned the Minister's reluctance to publish guidance for banning speakers at government events.
If the internal guidance is indeed common sense, why is it not published? There are concerns that such secrecy resembles oppressive regimes like North Korea. Why has this guidance not been made public?
The guidance will be published upon request from the MP, as it is internal and aims to prevent embarrassment for civil service or country by banning abhorrent organisations or individuals promoting hate or discrimination.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
MP inquired why the Minister was initially unwilling to publish guidance on speaker bans at government events.
Why was there reluctance to publish internal guidelines regarding speaker bans despite previous requests? Why did the response differ from what was given to a previous written question?
The reluctance stemmed from the guidance being internal. However, upon request, it will be published as there is nothing to hide. It ensures civil servants are aware of whom they should avoid inviting due to potential embarrassment for the service or country.
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Assessment & feedback
Providing a clear explanation for initial reluctance and willingness to publish now without specific instances or details.
It Is Internal Guidance
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
MP questioned the contradiction between government guidelines on impartiality and freedom of speech for universities.
Why does the guidance prevent speakers from providing adverse commentary on government policy while the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Bill promotes free speech in universities?
The guidance avoids inviting individuals whose adverse commentary could undermine civil service impartiality or cause reputational damage. However, contrarian views can be shared during policy formation without being paid or given platforms to create embarrassment for the civil service or country.
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Assessment & feedback
Explaining the context but not fully addressing the contrast between guidelines and university freedoms.
It Could Undermine Impartiality And Cause Reputational Damage
Response accuracy