UK to Launch First Zero-Based Spending Review in 17 Years

The British government will implement a zero-based review of its spending, focusing on efficiency and savings, according to Deputy Finance Minister Darren Jones.

The UK government will conduct its first zero-based spending review in 17 years, Deputy Finance Minister Darren Jones announced on Tuesday.

The new approach will require government departments to meet specific criteria before receiving additional funding, including a minimum 5% savings and efficiency target.

In his keynote speech at the Institute for Government’s annual conference, Jones emphasized that financial support from the Treasury will only be provided to departments that meet the requirements of the review.

This marks a shift from traditional budgeting practices, where funding is typically allocated by negotiating top-ups to existing budgets.

The zero-based review will scrutinize all aspects of departmental spending to ensure efficiency and accountability.