Responding to the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) Report on the Major Projects Authority, Jonathan Isaby, Chief Executive of the TaxPayers' Alliance, said:
It is a damning indictment of Government decision-making that value for money is not 'front and centre' when planning major projects. Taxpayers have too often been left with extraordinary bills for substantial projects that have spiralled in cost, and that is simply unacceptable. The PAC is right to call for the Major Projects Authority to be given more powers and to go further as a taxpayers' watchdog within Government.
"Recent examples show the desperate need to consider value for money when spending on large projects, none more so than HS2. As the estimated cost of the project climbs and the business case is found to be ever-more optimistic, this expensive train set is Exhibit A of what happens when politicians' pet projects take precedence over taxpayer value."
"Recent examples show the desperate need to consider value for money when spending on large projects, none more so than HS2. As the estimated cost of the project climbs and the business case is found to be ever-more optimistic, this expensive train set is Exhibit A of what happens when politicians' pet projects take precedence over taxpayer value."
TPA spokesmen are available for live and pre-recorded broadcast interviews via 07795 084 113 (no texts)
Media contacts
Andy Silvester
Campaign Manager, The TaxPayers' Alliance
Campaign Manager, The TaxPayers' Alliance
24-hour media hotline: 07795 084 113
Notes to editors
1. Founded in 2004 by Matthew Elliott and now with 80,000 supporters, the TaxPayers’ Alliance (TPA) fights to reform taxes, cut spending and protect taxpayers. Find out more about the TaxPayers' Alliance at www.taxpayersalliance.com