Member

A deadline of three months after the end of the financial year to publish the annual report may seem sensible on paper, but, in practice, complex reports often rely on external data, stakeholder engagement and cross-government co-ordination. A rigid deadline can lead to publication of incomplete or misleading information, which would serve no one well. The Government are committed to prompt publication and transparency, but good policy relies on accuracy, not just speed, and we believe that the current drafting ensures both.