Public Services Reform 2025-01-23
2025-01-23
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The Minister had previously outlined plans for reforming public services, focusing on user needs and technological advancements. Dr Cooper sought further clarification on how these reforms would address health inequalities.
I thank the Minister for those comments. How will he ensure that tackling health inequalities is baked into public service reforms, devolution agreements and local growth plans?
At the heart of what we want to do is improving living standards, outcomes and opportunities for all. One of the consequences of the long waiting times and waiting lists in the NHS in recent years is that it has been tougher on those who simply cannot afford to pay. It is therefore in the interests of good health and equal access to put in the investment that was announced by the Chancellor in the Budget, which is being taken forward in the plans announced by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care.
▸
Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not provide specific details on how health inequality will be addressed in public service reforms, devolution agreements, or local growth plans.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs had piloted the Microsoft Copilot program but suspended funding until 2026. Mr Dillon wanted to know if this suspension could be lifted.
The reform of public services and the reliance on artificial intelligence to deliver that led the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs to pilot the Microsoft Copilot program. That pilot ended after six months, yet it demonstrated transformative improvements in departmental efficiency and was particularly beneficial for disabled and neurodivergent staff. Will the Minister confirm whether funding for that tool, which has been suspended until 2026, could be released so that staff could benefit from its application?
The hon. Gentleman is quite right to point out the advantages that can come from these things. I am reluctant to make specific announcements about funding for specific projects. However, the Government are determined not only to make the UK a good home for investment in AI, which will be huge around the world in the coming years, but to make the best possible use of AI in the delivery of public services, which we believe can get good value for money and better outcomes for the public.
▸
Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not confirm whether funding could be released for the Microsoft Copilot program despite acknowledging its benefits.
Response accuracy