If the public administration select committee inquiry has achieved nothing else, it has at least highlighted the fact that there is good lobbying and bad lobbying. When challenged on this by combative Conservative MP Charles Walker, I had to admit that this was the case, just as there is good sex and bad sex - but nevertheless most of us would rather have bad sex than no sex at all.
What your piece and Insight's booklet illustrate is that there is a need for all of us in public affairs to constantly promote the cause of best practice. And best practice covers not just the ethical dimension of our activities, but also the practical way in which we go about our business.
Lionel Zetter, independent public affairs consultant
