Value for Money work

The National Audit Office (NAO), led by the Comptroller and Auditor General, presents around 60 reports a year on the value for money (VFM) with which Government departments and other public bodies have spent their resources. We consider good value for money is secured by the optimal use of resources to achieve the intended outcomes. The objective of our VFM work is to form a clear judgement on whether VFM has been secured.

Under the National Audit Act 1983, the NAO can examine and report on the economy, efficiency and effectiveness of public spending. Our value for money work covers a wide range of issues and all aspects of government. Our reports range from examining the entire operation of the criminal justice system to the major procurement projects of the Ministry of Defence, and from improving the commercial skills for government projects to improving contracting for highways maintenance.

Our reports are evidence based, and draw on rigorous analysis as well as our strong statutory powers of access to relevant documents.