01.05.12
Closer cooperation needed for government projects
Assurance for major government projects has improved, but is not yet ‘built to last’, according to a new report by the National Audit Office.
Following the launch of the Major Projects Authority, significant impacts have been realised, including better quality and visibility of government project data.
However, the NAO suggests that processes need to be formalised, with greater cooperation and engagement from the Authority, the Treasury and departments. Additionally the data should be used to spot and address potential problems earlier.
Amyas Morse, head of the NAO, said: “We support government’s ambition to eradicate the poor performance which has led in the past to the failure of major projects. The launch of the Major Projects Authority was a big step forward for the central assurance system and the Authority is already having a significant effect.
“Strong ministerial sponsorship, and the work of key individuals, has brought us to where we are today, but we are still at the beginning - to quote Sir Francis Drake: ‘there must be a beginning of any great matter, but the continuing unto the end until it be thoroughly finished yields the true glory’.
“If the new system is to be ‘built to last’, the Major Projects Authority needs to carry out the initial commitments to public reporting and be part of more fully integrated assurance across government.”
Tell us what you think – have your say below, or email us directly at [email protected]