• The post you are reporting:
   
  More follow up PaulB on this QUANGO discussion. It is correct to say that previously political leaders have attacked these bodies in soundbites without seriously taking the axe to them.
  
  Today DC went a lot farther than soundbites he has been quite specific as to what QUANGOS would be appropriate for and what should happen to the rest. It forms a detailed policy.
  
  They are appropriate in these circumstances: (I quote)
  
  Where technical operations looking beyond the political horizon are involved such as the Nuclear Installations Inspectorate and the Bank of England
  
  Where politically impartial decision are required about the distribution of taxpayers' money, such as the various academic Research Councils
  
  Where there needs to be transparency over facts that cannot be distorted by politicians, such as the Office for National Statistics - and the proposed Office for Budget Responsibility whic David Cameron wants to establish.
  
  He then said: "In all other circumstances, any task undertaken by government should be carried out directly through a department of state and the apparatus of accountable government."
  
  The Shadow Cabinet (now and on beyond the election as a Cabinet) are to ask of each and every QUANGO it has:
  Does this organisation need to exist?
  If its functions are necessary, which of them should be carried out in a directly accountable way within the department?
  And which, if any, should be carried out independently, at arm's length from political influence?
  If there really is a need for an independent quango, how can we make sure it is as small as possible, operating with maximum efficiency, frugality and respect for taxpayers' money?
  
  It all seems well thought out to me. A much more sophisticated approach to a mere 'bonfire of quangoes'....

Report Post

Your Name

Reason