Various governments
around the world have toyed with time-limited legislation; that is, laws that
automatically lapse after a certain period unless explicitly reaffirmed. Britain, too, has occasionally made use of
the device, the Prevention of Terrorism Act, annually renewed throughout the
1970s and 1980s being the supreme example.
Sunset
clauses should apply to the creation and maintenance of statutory bodies.
The
major Quangos should be required to justify their continued existence and
applications for funding before the relevant parliamentary committee at a
minimum of once every three years.
Appointment
of the heads of Quangos should be scrutinised by a parliamentary committee with
the power to reject the appointment.
