Labour MP Harriet Harman has called for time limits to be set for public inquiries, arguing that people want answers quickly. Harman, who is the chair of the Joint Committee on Human Rights, raised concerns about the length of some public inquiries, such as the ongoing Child Abuse Inquiry.
She emphasized the importance of ensuring that inquiries are conducted efficiently and effectively, in order to provide timely answers to the public. Harman suggested that setting time limits for inquiries could help improve their accountability and prevent them from dragging on indefinitely.
The call for time limits comes in the wake of concerns about delays and inefficiencies in the UK’s public inquiry system. Harman highlighted the need for inquiries to be conducted in a timely manner, so that lessons can be learned and action can be taken to prevent similar issues from occurring in the future.
The issue of electoral dysfunction has also been raised in relation to public inquiries, with concerns about the impact of delays on the democratic process. Harman argued that setting time limits for inquiries could help address these concerns and ensure that the public receives answers in a timely manner.
In recent years, there have been calls for reforms to the public inquiry system in the UK, in order to make it more efficient and responsive to the needs of the public. Harman’s proposal for time limits is one example of the kind of changes that could be made to improve the system and ensure that inquiries are conducted in a timely and effective manner.
Overall, Harman’s call for time limits for public inquiries reflects a broader desire for answers to be provided quickly and efficiently. By setting clear deadlines for inquiries, it is hoped that the process can be streamlined and the public can receive the information they need in a timely manner.