Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 4
4
Accepted
Ensure modernisation of APHA's animal disease systems is a key strategic objective with a plan
Conclusion
APHA has not made fast enough progress with modernising its systems and processes, to allow it to better deploy its resources. Many of APHA’s systems and processes are outdated and inefficient. For example, its vets in the field must complete paper-based forms, which are scanned and manually deciphered before being added to a database. This results in slower response and more risk of errors. Vital modernisation has been delayed by APHA’s focus on responding to recent outbreaks. The Department has confirmed funding of £62.8 million over the period to 2029–30 for APHA to undertake a modernisation programme. 3 However, APHA will still not be fully paperless by the end of this period. By comparison, APHA’s bee and plant inspectors are now using digital technology, with it reporting efficiencies of about 30% as a result. recommendation APHA should ensure that modernising its systems and processes for animal diseases is a key strategic objective. This needs to be supported by a clear delivery plan and milestones for when new services will be phased in and when the transformation will be completed.
Government Response Summary
The government has allocated £62.8 million for APHA's modernisation programme, which has a clear plan and specific milestones. This includes developing a digital customer contact form by spring 2026, a strategic licensing platform by spring 2026, in-field data capture by summer 2026, and a customer-facing portal by 2026-27.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
The government agrees with the Committee’s recommendation. provision for 2025-26 and approximately the same year on year until 2029-30, totalling £62.8 million over the six years. The programme provides APHA with a clear plan for transforming end-to-end disease and pest management processes and systems. This programme of work enables innovation, using automation, self-service and modern digital tools to streamline and standardise APHA’s services and improve efficiency of delivery and statutory duties such as inspections. DSF Programme focus in 2025-26 is on building core capabilities and will pivot to commence end- to-end services from 2026-27. Due to complete by spring 2026, a digital customer contact form is being designed and developed, which will replace approximately 36 external APHA mailboxes, and enable the collation of customer data insights whilst improving customer contact. From spring 2026 APHA will have a strategic platform for endemic and exotic licencing capability. From summer 2026 APHA will commence workforce management and in field data capture for a priority animal inspection service. From autumn 2026 APHA will commence risk-based determination of disease movement licence applications. In the 2026-27 development of a customer-facing portal will commence, which will allow customers to update and maintain their data and view licence application status. Progress toward these milestones is dependent on future funding arrangements, and additional funding may be required.