Public engagement is not recession-proof.

There are those who argue that global economic meltdown, failing banks, and stock market freefalls create a situation that cries out for greater citizen involvement. After all, as of last week, we’re all a lot more involved …at least in shoring up the financial system. But sadly, such optimists, whilst right in principle, may yet be disappointed. If there are swingeing cuts in public expenditure, job losses and a lasting recession, it will quickly become difficult to argue for scarce resources for public consultation.