21
Deferred
Written evidence we received highlighted that government has faced long-standing challenges in developing and retaining...
Recommendation
Written evidence we received highlighted that government has faced long-standing challenges in developing and retaining core skills, and recommends not only building up civil service capability and capacity where skills are repeatedly needed but also providing training in the effective use of consultants.42 The Cabinet Office told us that it plans to shift resources and capacity from back-office functions to frontline delivery, meaning the Cabinet Office intends to make greater use of civil service capacity and capability. These plans are presented alongside the spending reduction targets.43
Government Response Summary
The government agrees with the recommendation to build civil service capability and provide training, stating that these issues are being addressed within the Civil Service Strategic Workforce Plan (SWP), which is currently being reworked alongside a plan for technology and AI and will be published as soon as possible by Summer 2026 after this work is completed.
Government Response
Deferred
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government
Deferred
5.1 The government agrees with the Committee’s recommendation. Target implementation date: Summer 2026 5.2 The Cabinet Office is reviewing the development of the Civil Service Strategic Workforce Plan (SWP) following the new Cabinet Secretary's priorities for reforming the Civil Service - that it is recognised for excellence in delivery, innovation and improved productivity. The SWP is being reworked alongside a wider plan for technology and AI, including their impacts on the workforce. 5.3 The Cabinet Office intends to publish the Civil Service Strategic Workforce Plan as soon as possible, once the further work on technology and AI has been completed to inform it.
Source
Committee
Public Accounts Committee
Report
71st Report - Government’s use of external consultants
11 Mar 2026
HC 1521
Addressee Bodies
HM Treasury
Timeline
Recommendation age
0.4 yrs
Report published
11 Mar 2026