Written question asked by Lord Roborough (Conservative) on Tuesday, 7 July 2026, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 21 July 2026. It was answered by Baroness Hayman of Ullock (Labour) on Wednesday, 15 July 2026 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Natural England

Question: To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of whether Natural England delivers value for money.

Answer

Natural England (NE) is an arm's-length body whose expenditure is subject to public accounting and audit arrangements, adhering to the requirements of HMT ‘Managing Public Money’. The National Audit Office also conducts value for money studies across government, including Natural England, which Defra responds to.

The NE Framework Document sets out financial accountabilities and controls and the operational framework between NE and Defra. NE publishes independently audited annual accounts which are laid before Parliament. Defra ensures NE provides value for money by implementing robust accountability including quarterly performance monitoring and Ministerial oversight.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: HL1767
Session: 2026-27
Registered interest declared: Yes
Subjects: Cost effectiveness Natural England
Link: View this Written question on www.parliament.uk

Natural England

Secondary information

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