How many signatories should official papers and documents contain at most?

The Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees outlines the importance of transparency and accountability in government transactions. Official papers and documents must typically be signed by multiple individuals to ensure that there is a system of checks and balances in place. This practice helps to prevent any misuse of authority and promotes a culture of collective decision-making within public service.

Having three signatories on official documents is a common practice, as it allows for one person to act as a lead or primary signatory while the others provide additional oversight and endorsement. This can help deter fraudulent activities and ensures that decisions are made with thorough consideration and consensus among several officials or departments.

While fewer signatures could potentially streamline processes, having too few may compromise the integrity of the document and the processes it signifies. Therefore, the requirement for three signatories strikes a balance between efficiency and the necessary rigor to uphold ethical standards in public office.