A closer look at Government spending

National is reviewing spending on policy advice across all departments and agencies.

Under Labour, total spending on policy advice jumped from an estimated $510 million to $880 million between 2003 and 2009. Policy advice now accounts for nearly three quarters of the total annual police budget, and almost matches our annual spending on social housing.

The review will examine whether the focus and level of spending line up with Government priorities. We spend $50 billion a year running the public sector, and it is important we get value for taxpayers as well as better frontline services.

Delivering a better, smarter public service is one of National’s six policy drivers to achieve faster growth. This review is the latest step in that process.

More information: http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/government+review+spending+policy+advice