Recommendation 27

28. Response to HoL recommendations 10-12: The resources of regulators and challenges in recruiting the right skills were issues highlighted in responses to the call Smarter Regulation and the Regulatory Landscape Call for Evidence. Some responses did also raise concerns around regulators undertaking activities that are non-essential to delivering on their duties. The government is always in favour of a dynamic dialogue between regulators and government on the suitable levels of skilled resources to deliver their functions, as well as a suitable level of transparency. The resources that a regulator requires depends crucially on it (i) using existing resources efficiently to deliver on its key duties and objectives; and (ii) having the right duties and objectives. 29. As well as evaluating the function of each Public Body, the Public Bodies Review Programme’s efficacy quadrant requires reviews to investigate the form, outcome for citizens, and performance of organisations. This will include consideration of commercial models, revenue generation options, and whether public bodies have sufficient resources to deliver their current and/or proposed functions. 30. The efficiency quadrant requires reviews to evaluate the financial management, benchmarked costs, digitisation, and workforce of each Public Body. This will include consideration of workforce issues like recruitment, retention, and pay controls. 31. As set out in the response to HoL Recommendation 2, where a lead reviewer identifies an opportunity for improvement in any of the four quadrants, they will include a detailed recommendation in their report. The decision whether to accept or reject a recommendation lies with the relevant minister. 32. HoL