PROBLEM DEFINITION AND THE ALASKA NATIVES: ETHNIC IDENTITY AND POLICY FORMATION

This case study of an ethnoterritorial minority's role in agenda setting argues that the extant agenda setting literature does not take into account different cultural perceptions of the definitions of problems. Using the hearings on the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act of 1971, the differen- ces in understanding of the problem by the Alaskan natives who testified before the Committee and the Senators who received the testimony are examined.     

PUBLIC SERVANTS AND THE BRIEFING OF PARTY COMMITTEES

Abstract: Politicians need information. In recent years the practice of public servants briefing party committees has been expanded to help fill that need. In part this was due to the increased influence of caucus committees under the Labor government, but the practice has continued. Public servants provide information and explanations of policy to government and opposition members, although in the latter case public servants have to tread carefully. In December 1976 the Prime Minister tabled guidelines to govern these briefings. This innovation has implications for the doctrines of public service neutrality, for ministerial responsibility and for the capacity of the opposition to develop workable policy. Despite the potential problems that may arise, it is a practice that, if used effectively, can only assist in the improvement of political debate.