The Government Major Projects Portfolio currently comprises 125 major programmes at a combined cost of £448 billion - and in addition, government has committed to spending £640 billion for new infrastructure projects between now and 2025.
The ability of government to successfully navigate the unique and novel challenges of delivering major programmes is crucial to securing the best value from public money. They often have bespoke features and require new technology, and are complex because of their huge scale. Major programmes frequently encounter difficulties, failing to deliver to their planned cost and schedule, with significant consequences for national capabilities and the public purse.
The inquiry will consider the NAO’s work on major programmes and assess the common issues that arise, often repeatedly. It will examine issues and problems encountered in delivery of major projects, why they occur, and consider recommendations for government to help improve programme delivery.
The Committee will question the CEO of the government’s Infrastructure and Projects Authority. If you have evidence on the issues raised in this inquiry please submit it here by 6.00pm Friday 27 November 2020.