British Quote by Shirley Williams
“The British civil service ... is a beautifully designed and effective braking mechanism.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: House of Commons debate, 1975, political record
The British civil service functions as an effective brake, intentionally slowing rapid policy changes to ensure stability.
In simple terms: Civil service acts as a deliberate brake.
Key Takeaway
Value measured governance over haste.
Themes
government
bureaucracy
checks and balances
policy
stability
Mood
analytical
policy-oriented
Type
political
institutional analysis
When to use this quote
- policy formulation
- legislative review
- public sector reform
Key Concepts
Institutional design
public administration
risk management
Questions to Reflect On
- How can bureaucracy balance speed and caution?
- What reforms could improve its effectiveness?
A Different Perspective
May hinder necessary rapid reforms.
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