Asset News Management

Isn't it funny? This morning the Public Accounts Select Committee publishes a report about the Asset Recovery Agency stating that it has been a failure. The report goes on to note that the IT systems at the agency are appalling, cases were often not followed up, and that it has managed to recover about a third of what it has cost the public purse since its creation over five years ago.

Shoot forward about eight hours and the Government New Network is sending out press releases which detail specific assets recovered by the Agency and is effectively praising its work. I believe this is what's called 'damage limitation' or what has come to be known as news management and spin. One day perhaps there will be a Government who is - when they've been found wanting on a particular policy - willing to put its hands up and say 'you know what, it was a nice idea but it really didn't work, sorry about that'.

Unlikely I know but wouldn't it be a refreshing novelty?