Public Accounts Committee calls for stronger strategic oversight of Arm’s Length Bodies
Scrutiny
13 February 2026
The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has today published its report on Arm’s Length Bodies (ALBs) and grant-funded organisations, examining whether the current system delivers transparency, coordination and value for money for Islanders, and contributes appropriately to the achievement of Island Outcomes.The review found that a broad governance framework is in place, largely underpinned by the Public Finances Manual. While performance reporting is widespread, the Committee has identified variability in how effectively this information is used to evidence outcomes and value for money. The review found that the resistance to undertake periodic strategic reviews, as previously recommended, has caused missed opportunities to identify efficiencies and performance improvements which could have led to better outcomes for the Island.
The review also highlighted that there are some areas of overlap and potential duplication in some of the work of the Arm’s Length Bodies. Clearer strategic leadership from Government would support coordination, assist in resolving overlapping remits and help ensure that public resources are deployed as efficiently and coherently as possible. The Committee considers that annual compliance-based reviews are not a substitute for strategic periodic reviews.
The Chair of the Committee, Deputy Inna Gardiner, said:
“Jersey is facing increasing pressure on public finances, rising demand for public services, and significant long-term economic and demographic challenges.
This Review was not a critique of individuals or of the organisations themselves, and many of the of the Arm’s Length Bodies were established for sound policy reasons and continue to play significant roles in the delivery of public policy and services.
“Ultimately, responsibility for how the system functions as a whole rests with the Government. The framework encourages good practice but does not ensure that it is applied consistently or transparently across the system. The recommendations in this report focus on practical improvements to strengthen clarity of purpose, reduce overlap, improve accountability, and ensure that public money delivers real benefits for Islanders.”
You can read the Committee's report here: P-A-C-1-2026-Arm’s-Length-Bodies,-Grants-and-Subsidies-Review-FINAL.pdf
