Accountability in small government bodies

To ensure public money is spent and managed well, both Government departments and arms-length bodies must comply with a wide range of standards and requirements. This includes annual reporting and compliance with governance, planning and delivery expectations. Though Departments and bodies vary drastically in size, many of these obligations are universally applied. The Public Accounts … Show more

To ensure public money is spent and managed well, both Government departments and arms-length bodies must comply with a wide range of standards and requirements. This includes annual reporting and compliance with governance, planning and delivery expectations. Though Departments and bodies vary drastically in size, many of these obligations are universally applied. The Public Accounts Committee examines the value for money of Government projects, programmes and service delivery and as such, relies on Departments and arms-length bodies to provide reliable and timely information. As the Committee works to ensure value for taxpayers’ money, this often means looking at processes that support the Government to run more efficiently. The National Audit Office (NAO) recently investigated the proportionality of requirements, obligations and standards for smaller public bodies, considering topics such as annual reporting requirements. Based on the NAO’s work the Committee will investigate this issue, taking evidence from senior Cabinet Office and HM Treasury officials. Likely topics will include: Developing a clear and comprehensive understanding of the requirements and standards set for Departments and public bodies; Understanding the challenges faced by Government bodies in complying with requirements and; Identifying innovative or previously successful methods to help small bodies comply with requirements in a way that is proportionate and efficient. If you have evidence on these issues, please here by 23.59 on Monday 12 Januray 2026. Please look at the requirements for written evidence submissions and note that the Committee cannot accept material as evidence that is published elsewhere. Please note that the Committee’s inquiry cannot assist with individual cases. If you need help with an individual problem you are having, you may wish to read the information on Parliament’s website about who you can contact with different issues . Show less