There has always been a culture of secrecy within the British Government no matter which party has been in control.

Now it has been partly blamed for the developing BSE crisis. The Phillips report said scientists and ministers might have acted earlier if there had been a policy of openness.

The Government promised a Freedom of Information Bill, but three-and-a-half years later, the Bill is still not law.

But worse, there are signs it contains far too many get out clauses which will still lead to information being suppressed.

Exemptions could mean other scandals involving food safety, industrial accidents and dodgy deals could also be swept under the official carpet.

The Government and civil servants may be worried about making mistakes which would be discovered, but it's far better that should happen than people should suffer or even die through another scandal which was not uncovered in time.