We asked the Cabinet Office why there is still no permanent central body to oversee and advise how compensation schemes are administered. The Cabinet Office acknowledged the merits of a single body independently administering schemes in a consistent way but expressed concern that such an organisation could not build multiple bespoke or tailored schemes that are appropriate for victims. It asserted that it would need to be persuaded that the benefits of an independent body outweighed those of having bespoke and tailored schemes.18 We later asked the Cabinet Office for its assurance that it is open minded, however, about establishing an independent body to help design and deliver schemes, which it confirmed it is and that it is advising Ministers of the merits and challenges.19 The Departments also confirmed to us that DBT is chairing a ministerial group to consider options for improving future delivery of redress and explore the feasibility of an independent body.20 DBT previously announced that government plans to make a substantive statement on the matter by summer 2026, however, this has not materialised.21 Central oversight of compensation schemes and learning within government