Andrew Bydder: When Staff Massage the Data

Elected councillors or MPs are easily manipulated by local or central government staff because the staff provide the information that guides decision making. Selective data, even falsified data, can dictate outcomes.

The same applies to the general public. PR spin on public consultation is used to guide people towards the desired outcome. Staff don’t want your opinion: they want your votes on the survey to justify their predetermined decision.

They don’t consult you: they insult you.