Quangos system in a mess: Report

The system for overseeing state-funded public bodies is in a "mess" and lacks accountability, according to MPs...The committee called for the system to be simplified and a "map of the state" drawn up to show how each organisation is governed and who is accountable for what.

Tom Gash, director of research at the Institute for Government, said: "There are good reasons why some organisations operate with a degree of independence from direct political control - to protect the constitution, regulate big business and provide independent advice. "However, the current landscape is confused and confusing - and too often it's not clear how much independence arm's-length bodies have or how they should be held to account for their performance."