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

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.