Corruption is bad for the economy. So is trading favours, ministers and statutory officers to turning a blind eye, and investigative bodies failing to track down the source of leaks from ministers' offices. Flouting the law might be profitable for some businesses but such conduct is bad for their competitors, bad for their customers and, in the long run, it’s bad for the economy.

Cracking down on corruption is good for the budget, good for economic efficiency and good for attracting foreign investment. Given the overwhelming economic evidence and public support for a National Integrity Commission with teeth, it is surprising that the federal government and the Australian business community aren’t rushing to do something so simple, effective and popular. Running dead on this issue hardly builds confidence in the electorate or the international business community.