The UK's National Audit Office (NAO) will investigate the controversial Lower Thames Crossing project amid concerns over rising costs and public funds being used for a privately run asset. Campaigners are urging for the investigation to be fast-tracked before more money is wasted.
The UK's electronic tagging system for offenders is under strain and risks public safety, according to a watchdog report. Thousands may not be actively monitored, with concerns over contractor performance and staff shortages, despite government plans to expand its use.
Campaigners call for reform and public inquiry into royal finances after revelations about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's private income from subletting cottages
A National Audit Office report details the UK royal family's property leases, showing inconsistent rental terms, including Prince Andrew's holdings and the monarch's subsidization of his daughters' homes.
The UK's spending watchdog, the NAO, warns Sizewell C nuclear plant's £38bn cost faces "significant uncertainty" and may not benefit households until 2064. Risks are substantial and borne by the public, despite government claims of future savings.
Hard decisions over a possible sale and future subsidies loom now full nationalisation is on the cardsExplainer: how did we get here, and what about the future?Full nationalisation of British Steel expected in king’s speech“One of the proudest things we have done in government,” said Keir Starmer in Monday’s big speech about the decision a year ago to recall parliament in order to take control of British Steel at Scunthorpe.It was an odd boast because last year’s action was merely an emergency exercise in saving the patient, as opposed to getting British Steel on its feet and out of the hospital. Taking control meant the Chinese owner, Jingye, could not turn off the two blast furnaces but meant the government was on the hook for operational losses, which will be £615m and counting by next month according to the National Audit Office (NAO). Continue reading...
The National Audit Office has warned that England's falling birthrate is creating a surplus of school places and will lead to a £1bn reduction in pupil funding over the next three years. The DfE only began specifically tracking demographic risks in 2024, despite primary enrolments falling since 2018, with a further 7% decline expected by 2030. The report forecasts funding cuts of £288m in 2027, £410m in 2028 and £334m in 2029, prompting concerns about school closures and mergers affecting educational quality.
