Challenges Faced by Royal Commissions: Debunking the Broody Hen Sitting on a China Egg Myth

A royal commission may also face challenges in terms of enforcement or implementation of its recommendations. The outcomes and findings of an inquiry might be compelling and supported by substantial evidence

A Royal Commission is a broody hen sitting on a china egg.

Michael Foot


A royal commission may also face challenges in terms of enforcement or implementation of its recommendations. The outcomes and findings of an inquiry might be compelling and supported by substantial evidence, but without an effective mechanism for ensuring that the recommendations are put into practice, the impact of the commission may be limited. This is similar to a broody hen sitting on a china egg, where the actions appear meaningful, but the fragile nature of the egg prevents any real progress from being made.



   

Meaning of Quote – A Royal Commission is a broody hen sitting on a china egg.

Have you ever heard the term “A Royal Commission is a broody hen sitting on a china egg”? It might sound a bit strange or confusing at first, but it’s actually a phrase that carries a deeper meaning. In this quote, the idea being portrayed is that a Royal Commission – which typically refers to a formal inquiry into a specific matter – can often appear to be intense and serious, like a broody hen, but ultimately lacks real substance or significance, symbolized by the delicate and fragile china egg.

When someone compares a Royal Commission to a broody hen sitting on a china egg, they are implying that the seemingly important or grandiose nature of such inquiries might not result in actual meaningful outcomes. It suggests that sometimes, these commissions may only succeed in creating an illusion of progress or action, without truly addressing the core issues or bringing about real change.

To truly understand the significance of this quote, it’s important to delve deeper into the concept of a Royal Commission. Generally, a Royal Commission is established by the government to thoroughly investigate and report on a particular matter of public concern. These inquiries are usually led by a panel of experts or influential figures and often involve public hearings, extensive research, and the examination of evidence.

At first glance, a Royal Commission may appear to be a powerful tool for uncovering the truth, providing justice, and leading to meaningful reforms. However, the quote reminds us to consider the potential limitations and challenges that come with these types of investigations. Like a broody hen sitting on a china egg, it is important to question whether a Royal Commission is truly capable of delivering the desired outcomes or if it is just an elaborate façade.

   

One reason that a Royal Commission may be compared to a broody hen sitting on a china egg is the potential for political manipulation or selective focus. Governments sometimes establish these inquiries as a way to maintain public trust or divert attention away from more pressing issues. By appearing to take decisive action through the creation of a Royal Commission, governments can create the illusion of concern and responsibility while actually avoiding substantive change.

In some cases, a Royal Commission may also face challenges in terms of enforcement or implementation of its recommendations. The outcomes and findings of an inquiry might be compelling and supported by substantial evidence, but without an effective mechanism for ensuring that the recommendations are put into practice, the impact of the commission may be limited. This is similar to a broody hen sitting on a china egg, where the actions appear meaningful, but the fragile nature of the egg prevents any real progress from being made.

Furthermore, the idea of a broody hen sitting on a china egg can also be interpreted as a critique of the time and resources invested in these inquiries. Royal Commissions can be lengthy and expensive processes, often taking several months or even years to complete. While the intention behind these investigations is to uncover the truth and bring about change, critics argue that this time and money could be better spent actively addressing the issue at hand rather than just appearing to do so.

However, it is important to acknowledge that not all Royal Commissions can be dismissed as simply symbolic gestures. There have been instances where these investigations have led to significant changes and genuine progress. The impact of a commission can heavily depend on the specific circumstances, the dedication of those involved, and the willingness of the government to take action on the findings.

In conclusion, the quote “A Royal Commission is a broody hen sitting on a china egg” emphasizes the potential disparity between the grandeur and significance often associated with these inquiries and their actual impact. While Royal Commissions hold the promise of unveiling the truth and driving meaningful change, it is crucial to remain critical and skeptical of their outcomes. This phrase serves as a reminder to question the true intentions, limitations, and potential shortcomings of these formal investigations. Only by doing so can we truly ensure that the establishment of a Royal Commission leads to genuine progress and does not become a mere symbolic gesture.

   

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