Culture department told to save money
Significant savings could be made in the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), according to a spending watchdog.
The National Audit Office (NAO)concludes that the department could save £14 million a year by 2008-09 and £24 million a year by 2010 if it improves is procurement capacities and processes.
The DCMS is the government department responsible for delivering the London 2012 Olympic Games. It also oversees a wide range of organisations including national museums, galleries, tourist bodies and the Lottery.
Auditor general John Bourn said that significant savings could be made in the sector.
“While the sector has made some progress in improving its procurement capabilities and practices, a great deal more can be done,” Sir John said.
“A greater level of commitment from organisations to adopting good practice, as well as addressing specific issues such as greater collaboration between organisations when buying common goods and services, will result in greater value for money.”
Specifically, the NAO recommends the organisations use their buying power more effectively and invest further in computerized systems to cut down the costs of processing purchase orders.
