11th February 2005, 04:56 PM
I agree Alfie, and have brought this up before on the previous (non-GT version) BAJR message board. It does happen but rarely. A few years ago I was on the ill-receiving end of a rather poor decision between a county archaeologist and a government environmental agency. There were a few people who wanted to know the details; these people turned out to be county archaeologists themselves. It appears they may be monitoring themselves, and, in my experience 99% of them give a damn. However, what effect can they have on planning decisions of a neighbouring county or city...? Where I am based at the moment there is a city archaeologist who works for the city council. Outside the city is a county archaeologist. You wouldn't believe the stark contrast between the planning constraints, and it has been happening for years (relatively). I personally believe that they are the victims of their proffesional relationships and friendships as archaeologists between archaeologists, and also victims of working for local politicians, which is a whole different issue with lots and lots of accusations and faults. Just look at your local newspaper to see who are the business owners and who are the coucilors. Can I say that?