Fraud, Error Debt & Grants

NAO chief says it is time for the department to “step back and consider” its estates strategy as HMRC acknowledges its plans to close most offices will take longer, cost more, and save less than expected

First Civil Service Commissioner Ian Watmore seeks team "to help get the best people into the top civil service jobs"

Guidance refresh deletes entire section on creation of “Extended Ministerial Offices”

Public Appointments Commissioner concedes that not all of his Grimstone Review tweak proposals have been adopted

 Public Service Ombudsman would ditch the much-criticised "MP filter" and let members of the public make direct complaints about services

MPs call on government to commission independent review into tax-credit compliance processes

MP calls for further investigation into a contract between UKTI and a consultancy firm which was cancelled after officials raised concerns over invoicing

Exclusive: Ian Watmore tells CSW he is "absolutely convinced" that the current crop of ministers "wants to preserve Northcote-Travelyan" model of an impartial civil service, as he sets out focus on diversity, skills and leadership

Mark Leftly reports on growing support among parliament's influential select committees to let MPs "blackball" ministers' choices for key public sector jobs

Aid watchdog hands international development department an amber/red rating for its exit and transition work, but DfID disputes the "rushed" report

HMRC says Concentrix staff moving in-house are being given fresh training, as it confirms earlier-than-planned end to controversial fraud and error deal

Public Accounts Committee move follows National Audit Office concerns over £434m “private sector support” and other costs in annual accounts