27-03-2025
“The Spring Statement acknowledges the reality of the financial pressures facing the government and the difficult times ahead for all parts of the public sector. We need a sustainable, long-term approach to address the role of the public sector and leverage opportunities for it to contribute to economic growth while meeting increasing demand.”
In response to yesterday’s Spring Statement, CIPFA Director of Public Financial Management Iain Murray said:
"Public services are under immense strain, with demand far outpacing available funding. While yesterday’s statement attempts to relieve fiscal pressures through spending constraints, it is silent on the long-term reform needed to secure stable and resilient public services.
“The outcomes of the current spending review now take on additional significance as an opportunity for the government to set out a guiding vision for public service reform. A coherent, joined-up approach is needed to address the deep financial challenges already in place, and further policy decisions made in isolation risk further instability. For example, CIPFA will look at the social security cuts as a litmus test of the governments ambition for joined up policy making, as it would be disappointing if savings in one area translated to costs in another.
"Public service professionals play a critical role in ensuring every pound is spent effectively, but they need the right tools and support to navigate the challenges ahead. This means long-term financial planning, transparency, and investment in skills and leadership. Planned multi-year funding settlements will improve public financial management, but this needs to be backed up with strong leadership; otherwise, the public’s trust in service delivery is at risk.”
Notes to editor
For further inquiries, please contact press@cipfa.org.