Fraud and error cost the taxpayer billions of pounds each year – but most of the potential loss goes undetected. Based on the Public Sector Fraud Authority’s (PSFA) methodology, we estimate that fraud and error cost the taxpayer £55 billion to £81 billion in 2023-24. Only a fraction of this is detected and known about […]
We are developing a guide for counter-fraud practitioners to help them understand good practice in fraud and error reporting.
This report provides an overview of how the NAO’s work provides assurance on good governance and propriety. It also provides references to guidance from HM Treasury and others about what is expected of government. Good governance is central to the effective operation of government. Government lists the following as characteristics of good governance that departments […]
We set out seven high level lessons with recommendations on what the government can do now so that it will better prevent fraud and maintain standards during an emergency.
Gareth Davies, head of the National Audit Office, has reported on the 2023-24 accounts of the Department for Work and Pensions.
The UK is losing billions of pounds a year due to tax evasion by small businesses, which can easily exploit weaknesses in government systems.
Gareth Davies, the head of the NAO, has reported on the DWP’s 2022-23 accounts and has qualified his audit opinion.
Governance and oversight of franchised higher education provision needs to be strengthened following instances of fraud and abuse in the sector.
Most public bodies do not know how much fraud they face and cannot demonstrate that they have the correct level of counter fraud resources.
This study assesses the effectiveness of the government’s activity to combat fraud
Background The Department for Work & Pensions (DWP) pays £81.90 a week in Carer’s Allowance to people who earn less than £151 and provide at least 35 hours of care a week to someone who receives a qualifying disability benefit. In 2023-24, DWP paid £3.7 billion in Carer’s Allowance to around 1 million carers. DWP […]
This report examines the extent to which HMRC is well-placed to manage its compliance work following the pandemic, including future risks and challenges.
This guide uses the NAO’s insights to show what can be done to counter the risk of fraud and error.
My outdoor tap leaks. Not very much, just a small drip. And though I put a bucket underneath to catch the drips, I’ll admit that sometimes the bucket overflows before I can use the water in my garden. I know I should find out if it’s just a dodgy washer or I need a replacement […]
This report examines government’s implementation of COVID-19 employment support schemes.
We have used our insights to highlight the biggest opportunities for spending public money more efficiently and effectively.
The NAO has reported on the Whole of Government Accounts 2019-20.
The C&AG has reported on the 2020-21 accounts of the Serious Fraud Office.
The C&AG has reported on the 2020-21 accounts of the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy.
The C&AG of the NAO, Gareth Davies, has qualified his opinion on the regularity of DWP’s 2020-21 financial statements.