Recommendation 32

There is currently no formal process in place should the Clerks be requested to do something they felt did not align with their respective responsibilities. For example, the Clerks cannot overrule the restoration and renewal Client Board or the Programme Board, but retain accountability for any decisions taken (whether or not they disagree). We have previously reported how government has in place processes for accounting officers to assess delivery risks, and seek a ministerial direction should they consider what they are being asked to do is undeliverable.78 There is no procedure akin to the Ministerial Direction the Clerks could apply.