Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 1
1
Not Addressed
Committee took evidence on the efficiency and resilience of the Probation Service.
Conclusion
On the basis of a report by the Comptroller and Auditor General, we took evidence from the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) and HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) on the efficiency and resilience of the Probation Service.1
Government Response Summary
The government's response, using boilerplate acceptance language for a non-recommendation, outlines broad plans for improving Probation Service performance and implementing a revised framework by April 2026, which does not directly address the introductory conclusion item.
Government Response
Not Addressed
HM Government
Not Addressed
The government agrees with the Committee’s recommendation. Recommendation implemented The government expects the Probation Service to demonstrate measurable and sustained improvements in performance over the current spending review period, concluding in March 2029. In year 1 (to March 2027), delivery will focus on implementing the Sentencing Act and the recommendations arising from the independent sentencing review to establish a sustainable delivery model. HMPPS is refining how it measures performance to provide clearer direction and ensure system-wide focus on the areas most strongly linked to public protection and reduced reoffending. A revised performance framework, centred on a smaller number of priority metrics, will be introduced in April 2026. Improvement plans for each priority metric will be embedded at national, regional and area levels, supported by clear trajectories to track progress over time. This tighter focus is expected to strengthen operational delivery, including more consistent risk management, improved completion of key activities, and stronger compliance with core operating standards. In year 2 (to March 2028) focus will be on embedding these reforms and accelerating measurable improvements against the priority metrics set in year one. Through this period, HMPPS would expect to see further improvements in the quality and timeliness of court and community assessments, strengthening case supervision, and increasing workforce stability and probation officer availability. In year 3 (to March 2029), the government expects the Probation Service to be positioned to achieve the full set of probation performance ambitions. Progress will continue to be monitored through established performance governance mechanisms.