The anonymity of a civil servant means that he

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks what "anonymity" means for a civil servant. Anonymity literally means being "nameless" or unidentified. It is one of the key principles of the civil service, alongside neutrality and permanence.

Step 2: Explain the concept In a civil service, the principle of anonymity means:

• Civil servants work behind the scenes and are not publicly identified with policies.
• Ministers (political office holders) take public responsibility, whether credit or criticism, for what the ministry does.
• Civil servants therefore do not receive public praise or public blame for government decisions. They advise and implement, but the minister answers to the public and the legislature.

This works hand in hand with neutrality (civil servants stay out of partisan politics) and permanence of tenure (they serve whichever government is in power).

Step 3: Evaluate each option

• A. Is above the law of the land: Wrong. No civil servant is above the law.
• B. Should take part in partisan politics: Wrong. This contradicts neutrality, since civil servants are expected to stay politically impartial.
• C. Receives neither praise nor blame publicly: Correct. This is the definition of anonymity, because the minister takes responsibility publicly.
• D. Should be prosecuted for professional misconduct: Wrong. This relates to discipline and accountability, not anonymity.

Step 4: Answer

Tip: Link the keywords: Anonymity = Nameless = no public praise or blame. Neutrality = no partisan politics. Permanence = job security. Don't mix up these three principles in the exam.