Signature Without Significance

A proposal for financial approval was sent to the Minister. The Secretary prepared a detailed note explaining the merits and demerits and specifying the recommendation needing approval by the Minister.The Minister signs. The Secretary gets back the file and takes action. When the Minister comes to know about the action taken he becomes furious and calls for the Secretary.

A heated conversation follows:

Minister: You have acted in a most unbecoming manner.

Secretary: Sir, to my knowledge I have not committed any wrong.

Minster: But the file speaks for your impertinence. You have issued orders on the proposal on granting concessions to people in flood affected areas.

Secretary: Sir, I have only implemented the decision which had your approval.

Minster: Show me where I gave approval.

Secretary: Sir you have signed the proposal where I gave a detailed explanation with specific recommendation.

Minister: I have not given approval. The fact I have signed does not mean I agreed with the proposal.