By the time the Deputy Minister presents a matter for…
“By the time the Deputy Minister presents a matter for decision to cabinet, he or she tends to present three options: ' the unacceptable', 'the politically courageous', and 'the bureaucrat-preferred' options. As such, it is usually best to get down into the department to the person doing the first drafts of any policy.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Deputy Ministers present three options: unacceptable, courageous, bureaucrat‑preferred; go to drafts.
In simple terms: Three policy options: bad, bold, favored; check drafts.
Key Takeaway
Examine first drafts.
Themes
policy
decision‑making
bureaucracy
government
Mood
analytical
pragmatic
Type
Bureaucracy:1
Bureaucrats:0
Cabinets:0
Courageous:1
Decision:1
Department:0
Deputies:0
Deputy:0
Firsts:0
Matter:0
Ministers:0
Persons:0
Policy:1
Three:1
Time:0
Decision Cabinet:0
Deputy Minister:0
Bureaucrat Preferred:0
Drafts Policy:0
When to use this quote
- ministerial meetings
- policy drafting
- consultations
Key Concepts
strategic analysis
risk assessment
political psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- How to identify hidden biases?
- When should you bypass senior advice?
A Different Perspective
Political pressure can bias options.