Why are both ethics and legality necessary in policy decisions?

Correct answer: Policy should be lawful and publicly justified

Correct answer: A — a policy should follow the law and also be publicly justifiable. Legality asks whether a decision is permitted by the Constitution, laws, and authorised procedures. Ethics asks whether it is fair, responsible, respectful of people, and directed toward a legitimate public purpose. A decision can be presented as useful but still be unlawful; it can also follow a formal rule while producing an obviously unfair result. Considering both standards helps protect rights, public resources, and trust in institutions. Option A is correct because it combines lawful action with public justification. B is wrong because secret benefit cannot establish fairness or accountability. C is wrong because unnecessary secrecy blocks public scrutiny. D is wrong because rules are essential to prevent misuse of power. Memory cue: legality asks “is it allowed by law?” and ethics asks “is it right and fair?”