The Presidency has brushed off our request to make the inquiry into the Lady R incident Did they load arms into the Russian ship? public, and to commit to publishing the report. They say they have respect and appreciation for free expression and public interest, but have to strike a delicate balance with the need to protect state security and international relations.

The inquiry panel will use its discretion on confidentiality and the decision on whether to release the report will be made when it is delivered, they said. Ask yourself this: will anyone believe the outcome of such an important inquiry if they don’t see the evidence and report? Or will it just look like a further cover-up?

If you want us to have faith in this inquiry, we say, open it up, Mr President.