Civil servants could face disciplinary action as a review into use of cards is launched (Image: Getty)
A review has been launched into the use of Government credit cards amid reports some civil servants are “taking the p***” with their spending.
Top civil servants across all Government departments have been asked to urgently used to buy goods and services.
This could include checks on whether everyone who has a card needs one and assessments of approval processes.
Civil servants could face disciplinary action as part of the major review.
In a letter to permanent secretaries, Catherine Little, Civil Service chief operating officer and Cabinet Office permanent secretary, said she was “concerned” by some examples of spending.
She said: “You are all aware of the guidance we have in place around procurement cards. Despite these provisions and the clear restrictions on the use of these cards, I have been concerned to see examples of expenditure using these purchasing cards, which on the face of it look difficult to justify based on our approved guidelines.
There’s been a focus on Government spending and effieciency ahead of the Chancellor’s spring budget (Image: Getty)
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“The current reporting requirements and approvals mechanisms need to be strengthened, and we must collectively take a more stringent approach to controlling expenditure on procurement cards and reducing the numbers issued.”
Ms Little warned “public trust in Government is hard won and easily lost, and our fiduciary duty in managing taxpayers’ money is a core element of this trust”.
One senior source the review had been triggered by fears some officials were “taking the p***”.
DON’T MISS [CIVIL SERVICE] [DEFENCE] [UKRAINE]
that thousands of pounds had been spent on meals at private members’ clubs, crystal glasses and English sparkling wine.
The review comes as the Government focuses on spending and efficiency ahead of ’ spring statement, which is expected to involve major decisions on taxes and departmental budgets.
The spotlight on reforms aimed at shrinking the size of the state has grown following ’s appointment as the ’ head of Department of Government Efficiency.
The world’s richest man is looking to slash major projects and staff numbers, which has prompted some in the to call for a similar approach.
Ms Little said it is the responsibility of individual departments to “control and police” the use of the cards.
She said spending will be kept “under close review”, adding: “[We] will consider reviewing central policy on approved category groups if it should prove necessary.”
The deadline for completing the review and confirming findings and recommendations has been set for March 10.
Ms Little said she expects the findings will show that fewer cards should be issued.
The Daily Express has approached the Treasury for a statement.