Managing Public Money

The April 2026 edition of Managing Public Money provides the definitive framework for the stewardship of public resources across UK central government. It sets out the principles, responsibilities and controls governing the use of public money, reaffirming the constitutional relationship between ministers, Parliament, the Treasury and Accounting Officers.

Significant updates include strengthened expectations around Treasury approvals, Accounting Officer Assessments, governance, risk management and major projects. The document reinforces the requirement for robust business cases, systematic evaluation, clear accountability and transparent publication of Accounting Officer Assessments for projects within the Government Major Projects Portfolio. It also expands guidance on delegated authorities, public expenditure controls, arm’s-length body governance, procurement, grants, fraud, risk and financial management.

Throughout, the guidance promotes sound governance, effective decision-making and rigorous oversight to ensure that public resources are managed in accordance with Parliamentary authority while enabling innovation and continuous improvement in public service delivery.