Checking on lifestyles

LIFESTYLE CHECKS as a way of establishing the integrity (or the opposite) of public officials are premised on a simple assumption.

- By Tony Samson

A person, especially in public service, is expected to live within his means. This income source is defined as his monthly salary, net of taxes.

The lifestyle check is based on the principle of "living within one's legitimate (or explainable) finances." It pays attention to "discretionary" spending. These are purchases of goods and services outside the "basket" of necessities, such as rent, food, and energy. Prices of these commodities are used to set the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and track the quarterly inflation rate.

There is also the statement of assets, liabilities, and net worth (SALN) that details a government official's financial status. This is intended to include any wealth already amassed or liabilities incurred, and unconnected with present government service. This list does not include assets, including cash, in the name of other people.

Does the salary of a public official buy the same goods and services as an identical amount for his private sector counterpart?