Skip to content
Welcome, thoughtbot's Giant Robots listeners!Start here
Public Accounts Committee
AI-generated illustration
OrganisationGB

Public Accounts Committee

House of Commons committee that scrutinises public spending.

The Public Accounts Committee scrutinises the UK Government's use of public money. Its scrutiny centres on value for money and the delivery of government programmes.

Last refreshed: 22 October 2026 · Appears in 1 active topic

Timeline for Public Accounts Committee

#16 13 Oct

Urged UKRI to take equity in companies it funds

UK Startups and Innovation: UKRI grants £50m to quantum firms; MPs urge equity
View full timeline →

Background

The Public Accounts Committee is a House of Commons committee that examines public spending and whether government bodies use money economically, efficiently and effectively. Its work draws on reports and investigations by the National Audit Office. It questions accounting officers and other senior officials about The Administration and delivery of public services. [Committee remit](https://committees.Parliament.uk/committee/127/pubic-accounts-committee/role/)

The committee scrutinises how policy is implemented rather than deciding whether the policy itself is desirable. Its inquiries produce findings and recommendations to which the government responds through Treasury Minutes. This gives the committee a role in following up weaknesses in spending and programme delivery. It does not act as a forum for resolving individual complaints or personal cases.

Common Questions
What does the Public Accounts Committee examine?
Public accounts and whether public spending delivers value for money.Source: https://committees.parliament.uk/committee/127/pubic-accounts-committee/role/
Who gives evidence to the Public Accounts Committee?
Accounting officers, usually senior civil servants responsible for public bodies.Source: https://committees.parliament.uk/committee/127/pubic-accounts-committee/role/
How does the committee select evidence?
It generally bases inquiries on National Audit Office reports and investigations.Source: https://committees.parliament.uk/committee/127/pubic-accounts-committee/role/
Source Material

Written with AI from Lowdown's published reporting. Not individually reviewed by an editor. Updated 22 October 2026. Editorial standards.