Almost every day there is a call in the media for a public inquiry and over the last few years, public inquiries following human tragedy have become part of the fabric of our public life, but do they do any good?

Programme Credits

Programme researched, written and presented by Ann Alexander.

Produced by Jim Frank.

Jim Frank is a senior producer for BBC Current Affairs with 15 years programme making experience. He is currently producing Analysis, Radio 4's specialist legal programme, Law in Action and produces the BBC's Reith Lectures.

Editor:  Hugh Levinson.