Recommendation 29

We asked NISTA how it will ensure it has sufficient independence to fulfil its function to develop, deliver and challenge the 10-year infrastructure strategy, as part of the Treasury. NISTA told us that moving the NIC’s independent strategic advisory role inside government is more powerful because now the advice will be aligned with government’s intentions and will directly contribute to decision-making.54 We asked what options and actions were open to NISTA if NISTA concluded it did not have sufficient independence to fulfil its role. NISTA told us it has retained the expert advisory council from the NIC, with previous Commissioners transferring to NISTA. NISTA told us how the advisory council will provide advice directly to the CEO of NISTA and the Chief Secretary to ensure there is a strong voice from industry experts.55