The British government is considering the closure or reorganization of hundreds of public bodies as part of efforts to reform the administrative system, reduce spending, and increase efficiency amid a “new era of global instability,” according to Reuters.
The focus is on so-called quangos — quasi-autonomous non-governmental organizations that are publicly funded but not directly accountable to ministers. These include the Health and Safety Executive, Network Rail, and the Migration Advisory Committee.
According to government officials, each of these organizations will be reviewed. If there is no compelling reason for their continued existence, they will either be abolished, merged with another body, or have their functions returned to ministerial departments.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves intends to adhere to strict budgetary rules amid pressure caused, among other factors, by U.S. tariffs that have impacted the country’s economic outlook. Authorities emphasize that bureaucratic reform is not merely an economic measure, but a necessity in an increasingly unstable global environment.
Last month, Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the dissolution of NHS England — the body overseeing the healthcare system. Its functions will be transferred back to the Department of Health, a move expected to save hundreds of millions of pounds.
Some organizations responsible for government oversight and the protection of the rule of law will remain unaffected by the reforms. It is worth noting that the UK recently approved the construction of a new tunnel under the Thames in the southeast of the country, with an estimated cost of around £10 billion. Additionally, the government has allocated £1.6 billion for road infrastructure repairs.
