Commons2nd readingView on Parliament.uk

Arm’s-length Bodies (Accountability to Parliament) Bill

A Bill to make provision for Arm’s-Length Bodies to be directly accountable to Parliament.

Originating House

House of Commons

Sponsor

Sir Christopher ChopeConservative

Last Updated

12 February 2025

In Plain English

AI-generated

If enacted, this bill would require arm’s-length public bodies to be directly accountable to Parliament rather than (or in addition to) ministers. It would set out rules for Parliament to scrutinise their work, including reporting and oversight by parliamentary committees, and responses to parliamentary requests. In short, it aims to strengthen Parliament’s oversight of bodies that operate independently from ministers.

Key Points

Creates a framework for arm’s-length bodies to answer directly to Parliament, with oversight carried out by parliamentary committees.
Requires ALBs to publish annual reports and accounts for Parliament and to respond to parliamentary inquiries within specified timeframes.
Clarifies or shifts the accountability relationship between ALBs, their sponsoring departments, and Parliament, potentially reducing some ministerial oversight in favour of parliamentary scrutiny.

Who is affected?

Arm’s-length bodies (public bodies operating at arm’s length from government)Sponsoring government departments and ministersParliament and its committees (e.g., select committees)The general public and taxpayers relying on ALB servicesStaff and leadership of ALBs

Generated 21 February 2026

Updates & Documents

News (1)

Arm’s-length Bodies (Accountability to Parliament) Bill

13 Dec 2023

The dissolution of Parliament took place on Thursday 30 May 2024. All business in the House of Commons and House of Lords has come to an end and this bill will make no further progress.

Parliamentary Votes (0)

No recorded votes for this bill yet.

Arm’s-length Bodies (Accountability to Parliament) Bill | TrackPolitics