But it was Dr. Crew's willingness to define accountability by this one-size-fits-all measure that left the victims unprotected.

And it defines accountability.

Define clear roles and accountability for the CIO by delineating CIO roles and responsibilities vis-à-vis those of other senior managers; ensuring that the CIO has the authority needed to be effective; and documenting CIO roles, responsibilities, and accountabilities to help manage expectations and performance.

The nation's No. 3 auto maker, based in Highland Park, Mich., said in a prepared statement that the changes were "to more clearly define responsibilities and accountability for all company operations."

But the nation's experience, over decades, has shown the effectiveness of appointed boards, operating with some independence but clearly defined political accountability.

If we define accountability as 'being answerable' to someone for our actions, then to whom are we answerable?

Unfortunately, the hearings show that the commission appears to be looking for precise and narrowly defined accountability.

Nevertheless I applaud the aims and coherence of the Huhne report as a basis for defining accountability of the Central Bank, on which I should like to say a few words, particularly on the issue of transparency and accountability.