What responsibility, if any, does the Public Service Commission have for ensuring the political neutrality of Crown Entities and what powers, if any, does the Public Service Commissioner have to address breaches of political neutrality by Crown Entities?

Answer

The Public Service Commission has a role in promoting integrity, including the principle of political neutrality, across the wider public sector. This includes issuing guidance, setting expectations, and providing advice on public service principles. Under the Public Service Act 2020, responsibility for upholding political neutrality rests with chief executives and, in the case of Crown agents, with their Boards. The Public Service Commissioner does not have a general power to direct or manage Crown entities or their chief executives in relation to political neutrality. However, the Commissioner may undertake an inquiry or investigation in relation to a Crown entity if requested by the responsible Minister, or in certain circumstances as provided for under the Public Service Act 2020.