In the Public Interest? Assessing the potential for public interest companies

Article

This report provides a hard-headed analysis of what role Public Interest Companies should play in the future of public services and follows on from ippr's work on Public Private Partnerships.

Public Interest Companies are 'not-for-profit' organisations that deliver public services. Frequently controversial, they are at the forefront of the debate about the future of public services. Network Rail, National Air Traffic Services, housing associations, further education colleges, school companies, NHS foundation trusts and 'not-for-profit PFIs' are just some of the Public Interest Companies in use or that have been proposed.

This report provides a hard-headed analysis of what role Public Interest Companies should play in the future of public services and follows on from ippr's work on Public Private Partnerships. It suggests that these alternative organisational forms might help safeguard the public interest when contracting for public services and might better involve local communities in the delivery of services. However, difficult issues remain regarding finance, risk, accountability and governance. Public Interest Companies should only be used with caution.

This book should be of interest to all those involved in the following policy areas: Health, Social Housing, Education, the PFI, Transport, Social Enterprise, Utilities, Public Administration, Regeneration.

Related items

  1. A row of international flags flying in the breeze outside a building in Paris on a sunny day

    Diversifying diplomacy: UK strategy in a fragmenting world

    How the UK might build more durable international partnerships in energy, defence and technology.
  2. A 'To Let' sign outside a row of houses on a residential street, UK

    High housing costs in the private rental sector: The case for action

    45 per cent of all private renters in the UK have unaffordable rents. It's time for the government to act to limit rent increases.
  3. A wide shot of several large commercial vessels, including oil tankers and a survey boat, floating on turquoise water. In the background, an industrial shoreline with numerous smokestacks and refinery infrastructure is visible under a cloudy sky. Concept of global logistics, maritime industry, and international trade.

    Price caps and economic stability: How to manage the Iran war energy shock?

    The Iran war energy shock will impose significant costs on the UK economy, even if the government does not offer a universal support package.