Source · Select Committees · Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee
Recommendation 10
10
Accepted
Paragraph: 62
Absence of data prioritisation framework causes significant evidence gaps across government.
Conclusion
Currently, the UK has no framework by which to identify, and then prioritise, demands for data and evidence. In the absence of such a framework, and with an ongoing need to have regard to budget constraints, Ministers and HM Treasury wield an inordinate amount of power in deciding what evidence the UK collects and communicates through the decisions they take on departmental budgets. In the context of these systemic shortcomings, significant data gaps have emerged; the UK lacks suitable evidence on the performance of its different health services, for example, and on key policy challenges like school absenteeism.
Government response summary AI-generated
The Analytical Function Central Team (AFCT) will work with HM Treasury to assess the best option for future funding for a dedicated central AF team. Additionally, the Head of the AF will work with Chief Analysts across government to raise the Function's profile.
Summary of the government's response below — read the verbatim text to verify.
Paragraph Reference:
62
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government · verbatim extract
Accepted
The Government notes the Committee’s recommendations. With regards to recommendations 10 and 12, HM Treasury will consider all UKSA funding arrangements as part of Spending Review 2025 and HMT officials are working closely with UKSA to review likely funding requirements as part of this. Spending Review 2025 is expected to conclude in Spring 2025. The UK Statistics Authority will also address the points regarding the Office of Statistics Regulation in this recommendation as part of their response.
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