# Media Advisory: Report on parliamentary oversight of defence URL: https://www.transparency.org/en/press/parliaments-lap-dogs-or-watchdogs Type: Press release Published: 2013-09-05 Updated: 2020-04-07 --- 05 September 2013 Transparency International UK’s Defence and Security Programme will release a new report on parliamentary oversight of defence on 17 September. ‘Watchdogs?’—a spin-off of the [Government Defence Anti-Corruption Index (GI)](http://government.defenceindex.org)—will be launched with an evening debate hosted by [Security and Defence Agenda](http://www.securitydefenceagenda.org/Contentnavigation/Activities/Activitiesoverview/tabid/1292/ctl/EventView/mid/6404/EventId/1145/Sharpeningtheteethofdefencebudgetwatchdogs.aspx) in Brussels. The study answers the above question by assessing 82 parliaments across seven areas in which legislatures can play vital anti-corruption roles. Through detailed case studies, the report shows how parliaments and legislations can improve oversight of defence. The Syria crisis has shown that some parliaments have the teeth to make difficult policy decisions under heavy executive pressure. But many legislatures lack the bite to ensure that democratic controls and debate play a role in defence policy and budget decisions. This can lead to corruption: it hands the executive and the military greater opportunities to act with impunity in a sector characterised by secrecy and huge movements of money in large procurement contracts. In addition to analysis, ‘Watchdogs?’ outlines specific tools and actions for parliamentarians, executives, auditors, and civil society organisations to improve defence oversight. The report, executive summary, and press release will be available online from Thursday 17 September at 12:00 (London time) at **For any press enquiries please contact** Leah Wawro Project Officer Leah.wawro@transparency.org.uk Stephen Suk Communications Assistant Stephen.suk@transparency.org.uk