Issued by the State Services Commissioner

Transcription

1 Guidance for the 2017 Election Period: State Servants, Political Parties, and Elections Issued by the State Services Commissioner 28 February 2017 Updated 17 August 2017

2 This guidance identifies common principles and obligations that will assist those who work in the State services during the lead-up to, and in the period immediately after, the 2017 general election. This guidance replaces State Servants, Political Parties, and Elections: Guidance for the 2014 Election Period. It remains current until superseded. It is available electronically at: Further guidance can also be found on the State Services Commission website at: This website will be added to as we move through the election year. State Services Commission February 2017 ISBN Web address: Crown copyright This copyright work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution- NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International licence. In essence, you are free to copy and distribute the work (including in other media and formats) for non-commercial purposes, as long as you attribute the work to the Crown, do not adapt the work and abide by the other licence terms. To view a copy of this licence, visit Attribution to the Crown should be in written form and not by reproduction of any such emblem, logo or Coat of Arms.

3 Table of Contents 1 About this Guidance Overview Who this guidance is for Standards of integrity and conduct political neutrality Election periods Where to get assistance Feedback Updates as at 17 August Prior to a general election Government decisions and actions before an election Communications... 6 Media comment... 6 Programme launches and events... 7 Advertising and publicity campaigns... 7 Advertising and publicity examples State servants and politics State servants participation in political activities, as individuals Interaction with social media Use of agency resources Union activity in the workplace Contact between State servants, Members of Parliament and political parties Attendance by State servants at caucus and caucus committee meetings Costing parties policies prior to the election Pre-election Economic and Fiscal Update Providing information Official Information requests Following a general election Caretaker convention Forming a government Negotiations to form a government Briefing a new Minister or group of Ministers Purpose Audience Timing BIMs from other agencies Content Where to get more information on election year issues Publications Appendix 1: Standards of Integrity and Conduct for the State Services Appendix 2: Guidelines for Costing Party Political Policies State Services Commission Guidance for the 2017 Election Period 1

4 1 About this Guidance 1.1 Overview This guidance talks about what it means for the State services and State servants to be politically neutral though the lens of a general election. What the guidance does not do is provide template answers. This is because advice and decisions around maintaining political neutrality often require open discussion, a balancing of ideas, judgements to be made, and coming to an answer that is context specific. In an election period, it is also important to talk about political participation by State servants and remind ourselves that State servants have the same rights of political expression and freedoms as all other New Zealanders while having concurrent responsibility to maintain the political neutrality required of the State services. State servants can express political views in their own time without undermining the ability of their agency to provide free, frank and impartial advice and support to Ministers. For the majority of State servants, participating in politics outside the work place is unlikely to breach their political neutrality obligations. Some simple controls apply State servants must not identify their opinions with, or give the impression they are speaking on behalf of, their agency and must not use information obtained in their role that is not in the public domain for political purposes. It is also a well-established convention that stricter requirements apply to State servants who: are very senior; have regular direct contact with Ministers; or represent a public face of their agency work in a Minister s office, or are actively engaged in providing advice to Ministers on an issue that is the subject of political activity. State servants are also welcome to stand for Parliament. Here the guidance seeks to support both the State servant and their agency in a good faith employment relationship. Additionally, State servants are strongly encouraged to vote and to participate in the administration of the election. Increased public attention to the way agencies carry out their functions, and to the activities of their employees, can be expected. A heightened awareness of the need for State servants to be seen to act with political neutrality does not mean that the work of agencies is disrupted. The Government retains the right to govern through to the election and the ordinary business of government must continue. There can also be an increased sensitivity in the relationships, expectations, and interactions among State servants, Ministers, Members of Parliament (MPs), and political parties. The guidance explains how State servants can continue to fully support the government while maintaining the political neutrality of the State services. The principles outlined in this guidance underpin the constitutional role of the State services. They contribute to the maintenance of public confidence in New Zealand s democratic governance, and the strengthening of the institutions of government. State Services Commission Guidance for the 2017 Election Period 2

5 1.2 Who this guidance is for This guidance is for State services agencies within the State Services Commissioner s mandate to provide advice and guidance on matters of integrity and conduct. This is Public Service Departments, the New Zealand Defence Force, the New Zealand Police, the New Zealand Security Intelligence Service, the Parliamentary Counsel Office, Statutory Crown entities (including District Health Boards) and their subsidiaries, Crown entity companies and their subsidiaries (excluding Crown Research Institutes [CRIs] and their subsidiaries), School Boards of Trustees, Public Finance Act Schedule 4 Organisations, Public Finance Act Schedule 4A companies, and the Reserve Bank of New Zealand (see section 57(4) of the State Sector Act 1988). The Commissioner s mandate does not include CRIs or their subsidiaries (as noted above), State-owned enterprises (SOEs) and Tertiary Education Institutions (TEIs). The Cabinet Manual, however, states that all the employees in the wider State sector agencies must act with a spirit of service to the community and meet high standards of integrity and conduct in everything they do. In particular, officials must be fair, impartial, responsible, and trustworthy. Given this, these agencies may find this guidance a useful reference point for good practice. 1.3 Standards of integrity and conduct political neutrality A central element of New Zealand s constitutional arrangements is that the State services are politically neutral. The principles and obligations in this guidance derive from the Standards of Integrity and Conduct (see Appendix 1) for the State services. The Standards of Integrity and Conduct for the State services require State servants to: maintain the political neutrality required to enable us to work with current and future governments carry out the functions of our organisation, unaffected by our personal beliefs support our organisation to provide robust and unbiased advice, and respect the authority of the government of the day. In an election year, State servants should pay particular attention to these requirements. 1.4 Election periods The pre-election period refers to the three months before a general election. In 2017 this is from 23 June 2017 to 22 September It is during this period during which some restraints on government actions and decision making are expected to be applied. In 2017, Election Day is the 23 September. Much of the guidance in this document applies to the whole election period that is, from the start of the pre-election period (23 June 2017) until a new ministry is sworn in. The principles and obligations in this guidance should also be referred to for by-elections. State Services Commission Guidance for the 2017 Election Period 3

6 1.5 Where to get assistance State servants who are unsure how to deal with any issue relating to the election period should refer to their agency s internal guidance (policy and procedures). In case of doubt, State servants should seek advice from their managers. While each agency remains responsible for the integrity and conduct of its employees, the State Services Commission can also provide support to State servants and agencies. Please election@ssc.govt.nz, or telephone (04) and ask for the Election Guidance Team. 1.6 Feedback The State Services Commission welcomes feedback from users of the guidance. Please election@ssc.govt.nz, or telephone (04) and ask for the Election Guidance Team. 1.7 Updates as at 17 August 2017 Following feedback on this guidance the following edits have been made: In section 1 About this Guidance: the word additionally has been added on the beginning of the statement State servants are strongly encouraged to vote and to participate in the administration of the election ; and The right of the Government to govern through to the election has been made clearer. In section 2.3 State Servants and politics: the language has been made consistent with the section 1.1 Overview some of the Overview has been copied into this section the order of the paragraphs has changed to achieve a better flow, and a reminder that agencies must ensure that the agency respects the political rights of employees and not impinge on these rights beyond what is lawful has been added. In section 2.3 Union activities in the workplace: the word representation has been removed as representation is only one of the activities a union may be undertaking, and the section recognises that union activity can occur at any time within the electoral cycle i.e. this is not unique to an election year election. The subsection within 2.3 about State servants standing for election to Parliament has been removed and is now a standalone document available here: The changes are: under Key considerations in responding to a candidacy the statement that the employee and the agency may wish to consider any ongoing communication process for discussing or advising on matters relating to the candidacy has been removed. This was being interpreted as meaning that State servants on the hustings were required to report back to their agency which is not required. A link to the Electoral Commission s comprehensive guidance for Parties and Candidates ( has been added. State Services Commission Guidance for the 2017 Election Period 4

7 There have been some minor editorial changes that do not impact on the overall guidance. State Services Commission Guidance for the 2017 Election Period 5

8 2 Prior to a general election 2.1 Government decisions and actions before an election The Government has the right to govern until the election. The caretaker convention does not apply during the pre-election period. However, governments have chosen to restrict their actions to some extent during previous pre-election periods. In the pre-election period, the Government retains the right to govern. The Government is not bound by the caretaker convention (see section 3.1) unless the election has resulted from the Government s loss of confidence of the House. The Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet published the Cabinet Office circular CO (17) 1 Government Decisions and Actions in the Pre-election Period ( on 22 February It contains the following information. It has been the practice for governments to exercise restraint in making significant appointments in the pre-election period. Whether or not a particular appointment is significant is a matter of judgement. A case by case assessment is required. Successive governments have also chosen to avoid holding advertising campaigns that may create a perception that funds are being used to finance publicity for party political purposes. From a practical perspective, the election period can be a difficult time for Ministers to focus on big or difficult policy questions. A general election always results in a period of reduced decision making capacity at the ministerial and Cabinet level, while Ministers are occupied with the election campaign. Chief executives should talk to their Ministers in the earlier part of the year about the matters that they wish to see advanced before the election, and agree on timeframes for getting the relevant papers to Ministers and to Cabinet (see also section 2.2). The Secretary of the Cabinet is available to provide advice on decision making during the pre-election period. 2.2 Communications Media comment Key point Agencies and Ministers offices need to have protocols in place to ensure that media enquiries are handled promptly, by the person most appropriately placed to do so. An election year increases media interest in the activities of government and its agencies. State servants need to know how to identify matters that are primarily either political or operational, and whether those matters are to be handled by the Minister or by the agency. Those who are authorised to speak on behalf of an agency in the period before, during, and after an election need to understand the sensitivity of the environment in which they are operating. Good processes and engagement with Ministers offices will help to ensure that enquiries from the media are handled promptly, by the person most appropriately placed to do so. State Services Commission Guidance for the 2017 Election Period 6

9 Media releases by State services agencies during election periods must be drafted with an appreciation of the scrutiny given at such times to the activities of the Government, its agencies, and their employees. As at all times of the year, they must be strictly factual and impartial. Programme launches and events Agencies should continue to support Ministers with business as usual initiatives during an election period. Particular care is needed around ceremonial events to avoid perceptions of being associated with any political aspects of such events. There is no blanket restriction on Ministers wishing to launch programmes or initiatives in the lead up to the election. In general, the business of government should continue and State servants should support Ministers with business as usual initiatives. However, the nature and timing of high profile ceremonial events (e.g. building openings or award ceremonies) must be carefully considered. During an election period, there is a risk that public launches and events may take on a party political character that would not be evident at other times. This is particularly so when Ministers and/or MPs are involved in the event. In general, State servants should support Ministers as usual, but must be vigilant in avoiding association with any political aspects of such events. Particular care must also be taken with the preparation of supporting material. All agency material must remain strictly impartial and factual to avoid any perceptions of being associated with any party political messages (see advertising campaigns directly below). State servants should consider whether the impartiality of their agency could be called into question if high profile events involving politicians are scheduled in the weeks immediately prior to the election. In some circumstances, where there is a high perception of risk to the agency, it may be appropriate to defer the event until after the election. Advertising and publicity campaigns Government advertising is any process for which payment is made from public funds for the purpose of publicising any policy, product, service, or activity provided at public expense by the government. Agencies are responsible for publicising government policies, products, services, and activities, and this business as usual activity continues during an election period. Restraint is required around advertising and publicity that may create a perception that government funds are being used to finance publicity for party political purposes. Advertising or communications by State services agencies that could be regarded as encouraging voters to vote, or not vote, in a particular way are never acceptable. To work through a particular matter State servants should first read the Guidelines for Government Advertising ( approved by Cabinet, and the Cabinet Office Circular CO (17) 1 Government Decisions and Actions in the Pre-election Period ( State Services Commission Guidance for the 2017 Election Period 7

10 The Guidelines for Government Advertising define Government advertising as any process for which payment is made from public funds for the purpose of publicising any policy, product, service, or activity provided at public expense by the government. This definition is intentionally broad and does not differentiate between delivery platforms e.g. an authorised State servant speaking to members of the public about the detail in a consultation document or putting information out through social media. Government advertising and publicity must be presented in a manner which is accurate, factual, truthful, fair, honest, impartial, lawful and proper and complies with all relevant legislation and government policies. Agencies must comply with these long-standing principles at all times, not simply during an election period. Some questions agencies may want to consider include: Are you confident that the material has a clear business purpose that fits with the agency s objectives? Is the material presented factual, accurate, truthful, fair, and honest? Does the material look like it is encouraging the public to vote in a certain way for example, by publishing an expensive booklet that has a focus on past policy successes of one political party over a period of time when different political parties had been in government? Have you liaised with everyone in your agency who needs to be involved, e.g. the communications team or finance experts to ensure the spending is in scope of the appropriation or other spending authority? If you are producing material with organisations that are not part of government does your agency material meet the guidelines or does the total package of material make it look like your agency is no longer adhering to the guidelines? Business as usual campaigns Publicity and advertising are legitimate forms of governmental spending; there is no blanket restriction on communication campaigns during the election period. In general, campaigns that inform people of government policies and services or set out their entitlements and responsibilities do not need to stop during an election period. Restraint in certain circumstances In the run-up to an election, agencies should carefully consider the content and timing of their campaigns. Successive governments have exercised restraint around advertising campaigns to avoid any perception that funds are being used to finance publicity for party political purposes. Communication campaigns or advertising undertaken during this period should be assessed for perceptions of party political bias. Agencies should be aware that content, which might be unexceptionable at other times, may take on a party political flavour in the lead up to an election. Agencies should also carefully consider the timing of their communications. As the election date approaches, there should be a clear need by the recipients to receive the information at that time. For instance, it may be inappropriate to publicise programmes during an election period if the implementation of the programme is dependent on the election outcome or that do not come into effect for some time. State Services Commission Guidance for the 2017 Election Period 8

11 Advertising and publicity examples The following examples illustrate how the principle of political neutrality, the Government s right to govern and the Government s self-restraint in advertising may apply to an agency advertising and publicity in an election period. Each answer will depend on the exact context the agency is working through. Example 1 A monthly Facebook, YouTube and newspaper campaign, which involves government agencies, private sector agencies, citizen groups and NGOs, is underway to advise the community of services available following an earthquake. The general election is to take place in three weeks. Comment This is a business as usual activity that needs to continue. When material is co-produced, the government agencies involved need to make sure their part of the content is politically neutral and follows the Guidelines for Government Advertising. If government agencies involved have any concerns about the overall look of the material these should be talked through with the other organisations involved in the publicity. The government agency may need to reconsider their involvement if there is a perception that the agency is contributing to political material. Example 2 It is three months until the General Election. The opposition party has criticised a government programme, but the criticisms are regarded as being based on incorrect information. The agency involved considers the criticism misleads the public, and decides to make a media statement to correct the misinformation. Comment This situation requires careful consideration. Although the agency is setting out to correct misinformation, that may be better to come from the Minister rather than the agency. The agency may get drawn into a political situation and may breach existing principles. Example 3 An agency is responsible for a new programme which, if the current government is re-elected, will come into effect in April of the year following the election. The agency wants to start early with publicity so that all those who would be entitled to benefits under the programme are aware of it. The advertising will commence in October, which is one month before the general election. Comment In this situation, it may be prudent to delay the campaign until after the general election, particularly as the implementation of the programme may be dependent on the election outcome. That will reduce any risk that the campaign is seen as not being politically neutral. However, if the affected people need all the time between October and April to prepare for the possible change then this would be a good reason to proceed. If proceeding, the campaign needs to adhere to the Guidelines for Government Advertising. Example 4 An agency is ready to undertake consultation on a proposed Government policy by publishing a consultation document on their website. It is in the middle of a pre-election period and the topic is an election issue with strong and divergent views across political parties. State Services Commission Guidance for the 2017 Election Period 9

12 Comment Consulting on a proposed government policy may be absolutely fine to go ahead close to an election where there is good reason to do so. If proceeding, the agency and State servants need to carefully work through how they will meet their political neutrality obligations to mitigate the perception that funds are being used to finance publicity for party political purposes. However, if there is no reason to go ahead at this time an agency may consider talking to the Minister about a possible delay in the public consultation. 2.3 State servants and politics State servants have the same political rights and freedoms as other New Zealanders, and must maintain the political neutrality required to work with current and future governments. For most State servants, participation in party politics is not likely to affect the confidence that the Government has in their agency, or undermine the ability of that agency to work effectively with future governments. Very senior State servants, and those who have regular, direct contact with Ministers, or represent a public face of their agency should exercise careful judgement when considering involvement in political activities. State servants may wish to discuss with their managers any political activities in which they intend to be involved in a personal capacity. Managers need to ensure they do not provide guidance or issue instructions that impinge on State servants political rights. State servants participation in political activities, as individuals State servants who are standing in the General Election should go to State Servants standing for election to Parliament State servants have the same political rights and freedoms as all other New Zealanders. 1 State servants also have a concurrent responsibility to maintain the political neutrality required to work with current and future governments. State servants can express political views in their own time without undermining the ability of their agency to provide free, frank and impartial advice and support to Ministers. For the majority of State servants, participating in politics outside the work place is unlikely to breach their political neutrality obligations. Some simple controls apply State servants must not identify their opinions with, or give the impression they are speaking on behalf of, their agency and must not use information obtained in their role that is not in the public domain for political purposes. Membership of a political party is acceptable for most employees in the State services, as is helping with fundraising, assisting with leaflet drops, and taking part in other forms of support. State servants are not precluded from carrying out the tasks of a scrutineer on Election Day. State servants involved with a political party, or who intend to comment publicly on political matters, including via social media, need to be particularly careful that they do not: reveal advice given to Ministers 1 Like all other New Zealanders, State servants must adhere to the general rules for behaviour on Election Day and during the advance voting period. The full list of prohibited activities is set out in section 197 of the Electoral Act 1993 which effectively prohibits anything that can be said to interfere with or influence voters, including processions, speeches or public statements. State Services Commission Guidance for the 2017 Election Period 10

13 disclose information they are not authorised to disclose purport to express an agency view when they are giving their own view, or criticise ministerial policy with which they have been professionally involved. State servants are strongly encouraged to vote. State servants are also encouraged to participate in the administration of the election. The guidelines for political neutrality apply here as do any employment conditions around additional work. State servants must ensure that they do not confuse their political rights with their employment responsibilities. State services agencies must ensure that they respect the political rights of their employees and do not impinge on these rights beyond what is lawful. These principles apply at all times but special care must be taken in an election period. It is also a well-established convention that stricter requirements apply to State servants who: are very senior; have regular direct contact with Ministers; or represent a public face of their agency work in a Minister s office, or are actively engaged in providing advice to Ministers on an issue that is the subject of political activity. These State servants should avoid active involvement in political activity if it could be perceived as conflicting with their political neutrality obligations. State servants may wish to discuss with their managers any political activities in which they intend to be involved in a personal capacity. Managers need to ensure they do not provide guidance or issue instructions that impinge on State servants political rights. For further guidance see Political Neutrality Guidance and Understanding the code of conduct Guidance for State servants Interaction with social media State servants who are standing in the General Election should go to State Servants standing for election to Parliament [insert new link] The same principles and obligations apply to social media use as it does to any other form of communication. As agency representatives, State servants must have authority/approval in order to contribute to social media. In a private capacity, State servants must avoid harming the reputation of their agencies or the State services. Both the Standards of Integrity and Conduct and agencies own policies apply to social media use, whether within or outside of work. Anonymity online does not exempt a State servant from their political neutrality obligations. State Services Commission Guidance for the 2017 Election Period 11

14 There are three things for State servants to bear in mind when using social media. Firstly, even social media sites that are restricted to friends or members are in effect public, as no-one can control further distribution of the communications. Secondly, it always pays to remember that you are creating a permanent record which can be republished in other media at any time in the future. Lastly, while other people may be able to post information to sites set up by a State servant, remember you can moderate, or not respond to, postings. If in doubt as to what is acceptable consider talking to someone before taking any action. Care must also be taken in relation to communications by State servants on social media, whether communicating on behalf of the agency or using social media outside of work to voice political views, that State servants do not, or do not appear to: reveal advice given to Ministers disclose information that is confidential purport to express an agency view when giving a personal view, or criticise Ministerial policy with which they have been professionally involved. State servants who have a senior or publicly-facing role in an agency, or who have direct contact with Ministers, or whose agency has provided advice that is subject of social media comment, must exercise caution in making any comment on social media outside of work about political matters. Use of agency resources Agency premises must not be used to display material or to carry out any activities that could reasonably be regarded as party political in nature. State servants must not use their agencies resources in ways that could be seen as breaching the principle of political neutrality. It is not appropriate for agencies premises or other resources to be used for electioneering. For example, material produced by political parties that promote party interests, or lobby for or against issues likely to feature in the election, must not be displayed on agency premises, vehicles, or websites. An exception may be made for premises that are effectively public venues, and for which normal commercial terms are imposed. There is also provision in the Electoral Act 1993 for political parties to use State schools for election meetings. State servants may use their office equipment and supplies for the purpose of carrying out their jobs. Agencies may have a reasonable personal use policy. For the avoidance of doubt agency resources, such as photocopiers and systems, must not be used to support the private political activities of individuals. State servants should not provide their work place contact details to political organisations. For example, sending or receiving party political material (for personal information) through an agency s or internet facilities is likely to be perceived as undermining that agency s impartiality. State Services Commission Guidance for the 2017 Election Period 12

15 Union activity in the workplace Unions are entitled to carry out workplace activities in an election period. Union material made available to State servants in their workplaces must not be visible to the public and must not represent political party advertising. The activities of unions within government work sites during an election period are acceptable as they are at all times in the electoral cycle, and managers should work constructively with union representatives to enable this. The content of any material made available to members in the workplace, however, must not be in the nature of political party advertising, under the banner of the union. In an election period, it is appropriate for unions to share with their members the approach they are taking to party policies, and for their members to share this material with others who may be potential members. Any display of this type of electionrelated material must be in a space dedicated to the union, and in a staff-only area, to avoid any public misconceptions about purpose. Subject to those conditions, neither the content and distribution, nor any consequent discussion in the work place of this type of union material, breaches the political neutrality obligations of State servants, provided that State servants do their jobs without letting their personal interests or views influence their advice or behaviour, and act without bias towards one political party or another. Contact between State servants, Members of Parliament and political parties Contact, in a work setting, between State servants and MPs is always sensitive, but can become more so during an election period. Generally, State servants should respond to any approach by an MP, regardless of the MP s political affiliation and whether or not the MP has come directly to the agency or through a Minister s office, in the same way as they would respond to an approach by a member of the public. Any requests for information or services over and above what would normally be provided to the public must be referred to the agency s Chief Executive. As at all times, requests by MPs or parliamentary candidates to visit agency premises should only be met with the prior approval of the Minister. During an election period (as at other times of the year), any requests by MPs or parliamentary candidates for information or services over and above what would normally be provided to a member of the public (e.g. a visit to an agency s premises or a substantial briefing) must be referred directly to the agency s Chief Executive. The Chief Executive will refer the request to the relevant Minister along with any appropriate advice. There may be greater sensitivity when MPs have contact with agency staff during an election period. State servants should be alert to the fact that, during an election period, MPs may often have the dual role of advocating for a constituent and campaigning for re-election. Political issues can be raised in operational branches of agencies when MPs are acting on behalf of their constituents. Branch managers should contact their head offices if they are uncertain how to handle a specific case. State Services Commission Guidance for the 2017 Election Period 13

16 See Interactions with Members of Parliament for further information and some scenarios. Attendance by State servants at caucus and caucus committee meetings State servants should refer any requests relating to involvement in caucuses or caucus committees to their Chief Executives. A State servant who is requested to attend a caucus meeting of a political party represented in the House, should not do so without first obtaining the agreement of his or her Chief Executive, and/or direction from the responsible Minister. State servants should not undertake work at the direction of caucuses, nor should they service caucuses or caucus committees. Any instructions that might emerge from caucus discussions should be given to the agency only by the responsible Minister. Costing parties policies prior to the election Detailed provisions apply when an agency is requested to cost a party s political policies. A written request by the Minister of Finance or another Minister is required before an agency undertakes any such costings. Guidelines on costings are attached as Appendix 2. Further advice is available on the Treasury s website. It is the routine business of most agencies to cost policy options. However, agencies may be asked by their Ministers to cost the policies of parties in government, or to cost other parties' policies where Ministers wish to use this information for partisan purposes, for example during election campaigns. Provisions have been designed to cover such situations to protect the political neutrality of the State services, while providing Ministers with the information they require. Costing the policies of any political party should only be undertaken following a written request from the Minister of Finance or another responsible Minister. The Minister is required to specify the proposals to be costed where there is any uncertainty about this. Any request for costings made to an agency other than the Treasury is to be referred by the department, in the first instance, to the Office of the Minister of Finance. The Guidelines for Costing Party Political Policies are attached as Appendix 2. If State servants are uncertain about the application of this guidance, they should seek advice from their agency s Treasury Vote Analyst or the Fiscal and State Sector Management Team at the Treasury. Pre-election Economic and Fiscal Update Key point Agencies must provide information requested by the Treasury to ensure that significant decisions and risks are included in the Treasury s Pre-election Economic and Fiscal Update. State Services Commission Guidance for the 2017 Election Period 14

17 The Treasury prepares a Pre-election Economic and Fiscal Update, under the Public Finance Act The Update is normally published four to six weeks before an election. The Update must include to the fullest extent possible information on all government decisions and circumstances that may materially affect the fiscal and economic outlook. Chief Executives and Chief Financial Officers are required to sign a Statement of Representation to confirm that they have notified the Treasury of all matters that may affect the fiscal and economic outlook. The Public Finance Act sets rules around the timing of the Pre-election Economic and Fiscal Update but the exact date for release is at the discretion of the Minister of Finance. The Treasury will release detailed guidance and a timetable for the preparation of the Update via CFISNet in due course Providing information Official Information requests Official Information Act 1982 (OIA) requests must be responded to in a timely and appropriate manner, regardless of an imminent election. The only reasons for withholding information are those specified in the Act. When New Zealanders ask State service agencies for information, State servants need to respond to requests on time and in accordance with the OIA, particularly during an election period given the importance of a well-informed electorate. Chapter 8 of the Cabinet Manual includes guidance on the release of official information, including the involvement of Ministers in a release. An agency may consult its Minister about any request for official information received. An agency should consult its Minister if the request relates to Cabinet material (as this is related to his or her activities as a Minister). Upon being consulted, a Minister may take the view that information that an agency considers should be released, should not be released. In such cases, agencies should consider whether there is an obligation to transfer the request to the Minister under section 14 of the Act. The obligation to transfer will arise where the requested information is held by the Minister (but not the agency) or is more closely connected with the Minister s functions. Where there is no basis to transfer the request to the Minister, an assessment needs to be made as to whether any of the grounds in the OIA provide good reason for withholding. State servants should not become involved in assessing the political consequences of releasing information. A department should advise its Minister if it intends to release any information that is particularly sensitive or potentially controversial, in accordance with the no surprises principle. A notification for this purpose is not the same as consultation and should not unduly delay the release of information. The OIA also applies to information or analysis provided by agencies to political parties that are seeking to form a government following the election. The State Services Commissioner should be advised of any such requests and the approach the agency intends to take. If necessary, the State Services Commissioner will coordinate responses (see section 3.2 of this guidance). 2 CFISNet is the Crown Financial Information System. It is a secure website designed by the Treasury to collect forecast and actual information from government departments, Crown entities and State-owned enterprises. State Services Commission Guidance for the 2017 Election Period 15

18 3 Following a general election 3.1 Caretaker convention Following an election, the incumbent government is the lawful executive authority until a successor administration is sworn in. Governments in this situation have traditionally constrained their actions until the political situation is resolved, in accordance with the caretaker convention. On occasion, it is necessary for a government to remain in office for an interim period when it has lost the confidence of the House, or (after an election) until a new ministry is appointed following the government formation process. During such periods the incumbent government is still the lawful executive authority, with all the powers and responsibilities that go with executive office. However, governments in this situation have traditionally constrained their actions until the political situation is resolved, in accordance with what is known as the convention on caretaker government. The caretaker convention has implications for decision making during this period. The principles that apply depend on whether or not it is clear which party or parties will form the next government. In general, new policy initiatives and significant or controversial issues should not be taken during this period. For advice about the application of the caretaker convention in particular circumstances see Chapter 6 of the Cabinet Manual. The Secretary of the Cabinet is available to provide advice to Ministers and agencies about the application of the caretaker convention. Ultimately, the Prime Minister determines how a matter should be dealt with during this period. 3.2 Forming a government Negotiations to form a government The government formation process is a political one. State sector employees have limited involvement in any negotiations by political parties to form a government. Only the Prime Minister may authorise access by a political party to State sector agencies. The State Services Commissioner is the contact point and facilitator between political parties and State sector agencies. The formation of a government is an inherently political process. Political parties may be expected to negotiate with respect to possible coalition or support arrangements. The incumbent Prime Minister is responsible for authorising assistance from agencies during the government formation period. The State Services Commissioner coordinates the involvement of State servants during this period, to ensure that the political neutrality of the State services is not put at risk. If a State sector agency receives a direct request for information or assistance from a political party (including parties represented in the government), it should refer the request to the State Services Commissioner and notify the relevant Public Service department (if applicable). State Services Commission Guidance for the 2017 Election Period 16

19 Ministers must refer such requests to the Prime Minister. Further 2017 information has been published in standalone guidance here: Briefing a new Minister or group of Ministers Each new Minister will receive a Briefing for the Incoming Minister (BIM) in respect of each of his or her portfolios A sectoral briefing may be prepared for a group of Ministers Concise briefings must focus on the immediate needs of a new Minister taking on a portfolio. The briefings are not intended to be detailed analyses of the portfolio, or of policy issues; an exception to this is where immediate decisions are required Briefings are confidential to the Minister, are subject to the provisions of the OIA and it is up to the Minister to decide if the BIM is to be released. Purpose The purpose of the initial briefing is to give a new Minister sufficient information to meet their initial requirements, but is not intended to be a detailed analysis of the portfolio or of policy issues. The briefing is part of a wider process: Ministers will be able to call for a fuller briefing on issues of interest and importance to them during that process. This allows the initial briefing to be wide ranging, enabling the Minister to see the breadth of the portfolio, while still being concise. Audience The briefing is for an incoming Minister(s) and should be written accordingly. The portfolio or lead Minister will, other than in exceptional circumstances, authorise the department to provide copies to any Associate Ministers. A briefing for an incoming Minister should be in draft before the outcome of a general election is known. This is part of the State services stewardship responsibilities. However, it is sensible to reassess the draft once the outcome of the general election is known as agencies may need to take into account a Minister s prior knowledge (e.g. a Minister returning to the same portfolio may not need the same level of information as a new Minister), a Minister s preferred style of communication (if it is known) and/or the incoming Government s priorities including the content of coalition or support agreements. The briefing is confidential to the Minister or group of Ministers. Recent practice has been for the BIM or initial briefing to be released publicly by the Minister, a sectoral lead Minister, or a grouping of Ministers. This should not be assumed. The normal provisions for material requested under the Official Information Act apply to any request for briefings made under that Act. Ministers, not agencies, should decide whether to publicly release all or part of any such briefings. It is important to note that the briefing process does not substitute for other Cabinet processes. For example, policy proposals with fiscal implications will require to be delivered subsequently through the Budget process including consultation with related agencies and, in particular, central agencies. State Services Commission Guidance for the 2017 Election Period 17

20 Timing Generally, the BIM may be provided to Ministers following their appointment (that is, after the appointment ceremony). Incoming Ministers or an incoming Government may, however, be briefed in advance in the following circumstances (see Chapter 3 of the Cabinet Manual): If government formation negotiations have concluded but portfolio allocations have not yet been announced, Chief Executives may, in cases of great urgency, provide advice to the incoming government through the Prime Minister-designate. This advice may be given only after the express consent of the incumbent Prime Minister has been obtained and a process has been agreed with the State Services Commissioner. If portfolio allocations have been announced through the Ministerial List, but incoming Ministers have not yet been formally appointed, Chief Executives may brief incoming Ministers with the approval of the incumbent Prime Minister and with the knowledge of the incumbent Minister and the State Services Commissioner. The full briefing process should occur over a number of weeks following a general election after a Minister is appointed whether or not the Minister held that portfolio in the previous Government. Chief Executives should seek an early opportunity to discuss the process for ongoing engagement with the Minister, and how the agency can best meet the Minister s needs. BIMs from other agencies Agencies in the wider State sector and agencies within Ministers portfolios that do not form part of the State sector would normally brief the incoming government through the relevant department. Ministers are likely to expect briefings from some Crown entities, especially those with significant policy and operational responsibilities. Crown entity briefings should be driven by Ministers needs and the monitoring department should facilitate the briefing process. Where Crown entities do produce briefings, they should follow the Cabinet Manual and this guidance. If a separate briefing is provided, the agency should still liaise with and provide a copy of it to the relevant department. Content Chapter 3 of the Cabinet Manual provides information on what the BIM does i.e. the briefing: describes the organisation and responsibilities of the department or agency, as well as any Crown entities or other state sector agencies within the portfolio sets out the terms of reference, membership, and terms of office for all boards, commissions, tribunals, and so on, for which the Minister has responsibility includes an account of major outstanding policy issues and the implementation of current programmes, and sets out details of pending decisions or action that will be required of the Minister, including recommendations for draft legislation (taking into account any coalition or support agreements, or pre-election undertakings). State Services Commission Guidance for the 2017 Election Period 18

21 Discussion Below is a discussion of things to consider when drafting a BIM. BIMs come in many forms and styles. There is no one right way to provide a BIM and therefore no template is provided. The briefing should take into account the Minister s and the Government s priorities and interests, as well as the Minister s existing knowledge of the portfolio and of the department or agency concerned. The outline of these issues in a briefing that follows a general election will need to take into account relevant election manifestoes, and decisions taken or positions reached as a result of government formation negotiations. More detailed descriptions and suggested options can be provided later when a particular matter is submitted to a Minister for decision. A broad environmental scan of future challenges is important to a Minister. This can be provided during the briefing process when the Minister has more time to consider it, rather than including it in the initial briefing. Providing in-depth advice or making recommendations on policy options in the briefing may constrain the advice contained while not necessarily being in line with Ministers expectations or immediate needs. The briefing process should not be used to promote Budget proposals these should be advanced through the normal Government Budget processes. At this early stage of a Minister s term, it is suggested that the briefing focuses on decisions that are likely to be required no more than six months out, including recommendations for draft legislation (taking into account relevant election manifestos, coalition agreements and support arrangements) and any significant appointments that require decisions. Judgement is required on the content and amount of detail. A balance is needed between ensuring a new Minister is well-informed, and giving advice before the department has had the chance to engage the Minister and learn the new Government s policies for this area. A BIM is also an opportunity to provide information on staff that the Minister will be engaging with and make the Minister aware of significant risks within the department or portfolio, and to advise the Minister whether the agency concerned has any statutorily independent functions. Consultation with Central Agencies Departments should seek advice from the central agencies as they plan and draft their briefings, particularly on matters that relate to central agencies e.g. industrial relations, machinery of government, significant fiscal risks. State Services Commission Guidance for the 2017 Election Period 19

22 4 Where to get more information on election year issues State servants who are unclear about how to deal with particular obligations of agencies during an election period should first read any relevant agency policies and/or approach a manager. The following agencies can also provide assistance: State Services Commission regarding the obligations of agencies and their employees, and providing information to support negotiations to form a government. election@ssc.govt.nz. Cabinet Office regarding the operation of government, constitutional matters, including caretaker convention issues, briefings for incoming Ministers, and the provisions of the Cabinet Manual. The Treasury regarding the Pre-election Economic and Fiscal Update and costing of party political policies. 4.1 Publications Standards of Integrity and Conduct for the State Services (code of conduct) The code of conduct, issued by the State Services Commissioner, has been applied to all Public Service departments, to statutory Crown entities (including District Health Boards), to Crown entity companies (excluding Crown Research Institutes), to a number of subsidiary companies of Crown entities, and to Public Finance Act Schedule 4A companies. The code of conduct is attached as Appendix 1. Cabinet Manual This is the key guide to central government decision making. It is a primary source of information on constitutional and procedural matters, and includes material on elections and government formation. See Guidelines for Government Advertising The Guidelines for Government Advertising assist Ministers and government departments in preparing advertising and publicity, and in the expenditure of public funds for this purpose. The Guidelines are currently published on the Cabinet Office website. See Guidelines for Government Advertising Political Neutrality Guidance The State Services Commissioner has set out some general principles on political neutrality, which should guide the actions and decisions of State servants and employers in this area. See CabGuide The CabGuide helps departments and Ministers' offices meet Cabinet's requirements for developing and presenting proposals to Cabinet. See State Services Commission Guidance for the 2017 Election Period 20

23 Cabinet Office Circulars The Cabinet Office issues circulars from time to time throughout an election period, providing guidance on various procedural and constitutional issues. See The Standing Orders of the House of Representatives These are the rules used by the House of Representatives to govern its own procedures. They also contain guidance on topics such as post-election procedures and the notification of party details. See Electoral Act 1993 Legislation setting out the legal requirements for State servants standing for Parliament. See State Services Commission Guidance for the 2017 Election Period 21

24 Appendix 1: Standards of Integrity and Conduct for the State Services State Services Commission Guidance for the 2017 Election Period 22