Are Commissions Representative?: The Composition of Commissions of Inquiry created in New Zealand since 1970

Abstract

Commissions of inquiry and royal commissions are appointed as a unit and thus governments can determine the balance of people. Balance can be considered in terms of gender, occupation and representation of stakeholders. Examining the ad hoc bodies appointed by government to consider a policy issue with a set report date created since 1970 indicates the changing views on the composition of commissions. Such views are contrasted with popular views garnered from focus groups who were asked to select an advisory group. The results indicate some marked differences in the views of government and the people.