26
Accepted
The Whole of Government Accounts (WGA) is intended to present an integrated assessment of the...
Conclusion
The Whole of Government Accounts (WGA) is intended to present an integrated assessment of the United Kingdom’s public sector finances, enabling clearer oversight of fiscal exposures and long-term financial commitments. By drawing together financial information from across the UK it should allow Parliament to evaluate the financial consequences of devolution and determine whether public funds are being deployed effectively and consistently across the UK.52
Government Response Summary
The government agrees with the Committee's observation, stating that ongoing wider reforms in the local audit sector and existing Treasury actions to improve WGA accessibility and compliance are expected to address weaknesses and ensure the WGA fulfils its intended purpose. They also state the recommendation has been implemented.
Government Response
Accepted
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
1.1 The government agrees with the Committee’s recommendation. Recommendation implemented 1.2 HM Treasury acknowledges the Committee’s interest in whether the government’s focus and composition is sufficient and aligned with the level of complexity involved in improving the WGA. To address the weaknesses referenced in the recommendation, wider reforms in the local audit sector such as the introduction of statutory audit backstop dates and the legislation on audit reforms including the establishment of the Local Audit Office are expected to increase completeness and therefore improve overall compliance. 1.3 The Treasury regularly reviews the composition, scope and direction of WGA to ensure that it remains deliverable in line with the project plan and responsive to emerging risks. Although challenges in the local audit system have affected data quality in recent years, the production of the WGA has continued to progress in accordance with the agreed recovery plan. 1.4 The Treasury has also undertaken a range of actions to shift the focus of the recovery plan towards both accessibility and compliance, strengthening these areas. Accessibility has been improved through the introduction of new sections such as accounting spotlights, alongside additional disclosures designed to foster better understanding of key areas of the accounts. Additional support has been provided through the publication of a supplementary handbook and dedicated teach‑in sessions for Parliamentary staff. 1.5 Compliance has also been enhanced, with longstanding issues such as the qualification relating to NatWest being removed. The Treasury will continue to monitor whether further changes are required to match the complexity of the work and ensure continued improvement in the quality and usability of the WGA.
Source
Committee
Public Accounts Committee
Report
69th Report - Whole of Government Accounts 2023-24
04 Mar 2026
HC 1243
Addressee Bodies
HM Treasury
Timeline
Recommendation age
0.4 yrs
Report published
04 Mar 2026