The government accepts this recommendation. While we do not believe that a mental health commissioner is the answer, the government recognises that accountability for mental health services has not been strong enough to guarantee consistent quality and equity. This will change with our new approach to mental health. The new operating model and oversight arrangements set out in the 10 Year Health Plan will introduce clearer standards, greater transparency, and consequences for poor performance. The changes we are making, in light of Dr Penny Dash’s report on the patient safety landscape, will simplify and streamline the system, making it clear where responsibility and accountability sit at all levels. To embed transparency and quality into the NHS, we will put patient choice, voice and feedback at the centre of how we define and measure quality. In addition, the Public Office (Accountability) Bill - better known as the Hillsborough Law - will embed candour at the heart of public services. The PCREF is now a contractual requirement for all providers of NHS commissioned mental health services, building on the existing statutory duties within the Equalities Act. NHS England is supporting systems to implement PCREF in full, with guidance, tools and reporting mechanisms designed to embed accountability and drive improvement. Further proposals to strengthen system-wide accountability will be set out through future planning and policy updates. The aim is to ensure that mental health services operate to consistent standards and deliver equitable, person-centred care. E03557599 978-1-5286-6277-2