Commons Sense

House of Commons · General Debate

National Audit Office

01 July 2020 · 5 other contributors

Opened by Boris Johnson Con Uxbridge and South Ruislip

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

At a glance

Boris Johnson raised concerns about national audit office in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

Key points

  • Moves to appoint Dame Fiona Reynolds DBE with a background in conservation, heritage, and academia
  • Prime Minister highlights her capability to ensure government accountability for taxpayer funds
  • Prime Minister also notes her potential to modernize the National Audit Office

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Boris Johnson Con Uxbridge and South Ruislip

Moves to appoint Dame Fiona Reynolds DBE, who has a distinguished career in conservation, heritage, and academia. The Prime Minister emphasises her ability to hold the Government accountable for taxpayers' money and modernize the NAO.

Other contributors (5)
  • Meg Hillier Lab Co-op Hackney South and Shoreditch

    Supports the appointment, highlighting Dame Fiona's experience in non-governmental organisations and academia. Meg expresses gratitude for Lord Bichard's service and looks forward to meeting Dame Fiona.

  • Geoffrey Clifton-Brown Con North Cotswolds

    Welcomes the appointment, noting his personal knowledge of Dame Fiona as a constituent. Emphasises her achievements in academia, conservation, and business appointments.

  • Alison Thewliss SNP Glasgow Central

    Supports the appointment, appreciating Caroline Gardner's involvement on the panel and recognising Dame Fiona's ability to provide oversight due to her background in conservation.

  • Edward Leigh Con Gainsborough

    Welcomes the candidate but stresses that the NAO board does not set policy. Edward highlights the importance of ensuring efficiency as public spending increases significantly, especially during and after the pandemic.

  • Andrew Griffith Con Arundel and South Downs

    Supports the appointment, noting its importance in ensuring effective public expenditure. Andrew acknowledges Dame Fiona's independence and long-term perspective from her work in conservation.

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