We didn't actually overspend our budget. The allocation simply fell short of our expenditure.

-- Keith Davis


  


Budget Module - Unit 6: Opening Up the Parliamentary Process
 

Learning Objectives:
How Do Public Meetings Influence the Budget Process?

After studying this unit you should be able to:

  • Discuss the pros and cons of opening committee proceedings to the public;
  • Assess practices for media access to parliament in your country;
  • Understand the steps involved in organizing public hearings on the budget.

Introduction

The legislative stage offers an opportunity to enhance transparency and broaden public debate about budget choices. Participation in the budget process through public hearings also allows parliament to benefit from access to independent expertise on the budget. But the benefits of openness are not uncontested. This unit considers the pros and cons of opening proceedings to the public and the media and the role of public hearings by parliamentary committees.

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