Whistleblowers in the Civil Service 2024-07-25
2024-07-25
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The National Audit Office reported that 50% of civil servants feel it is unsafe to challenge governmental practices and fear negative consequences for speaking out. The report also highlighted the need for better handling of government failures.
What steps are being taken to protect whistleblowers in the civil service given the recent National Audit Office report indicating a lack of safety for those raising concerns and highlighting issues with how government failures are addressed?
The Cabinet Office provides support through a framework that includes guidance on raising concerns safely and practical assistance for whistleblowers. The government is working to improve the experience of whistleblowers and will introduce a duty of candour Bill to enhance transparency and accountability, as mentioned in the King's Speech.
▸
Assessment & feedback
The establishment of an office dedicated to whistleblower rights was not addressed.
Looking Into The Statistics That You Mentioned And What Is Causing Those Problems
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The National Audit Office highlighted that 50% of civil servants do not feel safe raising concerns due to potential negative consequences.
Given the National Audit Office's findings, will the Government establish a new office for whistleblowers to create legal rights and promote awareness?
Whistleblowing is crucial. The government supports whistleblowers, acknowledges the importance of addressing the issues raised by statistics, and commits to continuing efforts on this agenda despite ongoing discussions about fraud protection measures.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Establishing a new office for whistleblowers was not addressed.
We Are Looking Into The Statistics That You Mentioned And What Is Causing Those Problems
Response accuracy