Is Whitehall Fit For Purpose? An Analysis of the Capability Reviews

Article

How good is Whitehall at delivery? Analysing data published as part of the Departmental Capability Reviews, IPPR research shows that despite the strong emphasis placed on 'delivery' by the Blair governments, key Whitehall public service delivery departments continue to under-perform in this vital area. Of the six departments assessed in this paper four were found to have significant weaknesses in terms of their ability to deliver effectively. In short, Whitehall has a long way to go if it is to improve its capacity to deliver public services.

How good is Whitehall at delivery? Analysing data published as part of the Departmental Capability Reviews, ippr research shows that despite the strong emphasis placed on 'delivery' by the Blair governments, key Whitehall public service delivery departments continue to under-perform in this vital area. Of the six departments assessed in this paper four were found to have significant weaknesses in terms of their ability to deliver effectively. In short, Whitehall has a long way to go if it is to improve its capacity to deliver public services.

Related items

  1. Close-up Of Woman Sitting On Sofa Texting Message On Smartphone

    A better deal: Tackling the NEET crisis

    Around a million young people in the UK are now not in education, employment or training (NEET), the highest number for more than a decade.
  2. A diverse group of neighbours going on a group walk in a residential area, warpped up in warm coats

    From strangers to citizens: Membership and belonging in an age of migration

    Who should become a British citizen in an age of growing mobility and migration?
  3. The Scottish parliament building rises in the backdrop, foregrounded by a pond, trees and a lawn. Blue skies overhead

    Rebuilding Scotland's "New Politics": a constructive parliament to build trust in Scottish politics

    Political disillusionment is growing in Scotland, and policy is not delivering. MSPs who did not stand for re-election this year share how the parliament currently works and could be improved.