New commission to explore risks and opportunities of Brexit for public services

A new commission launched by the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA) is to explore risks and opportunities of Brexit for public services.

CIPFA has launched its Brexit Advisory Commission for Public Services, which will examine how best the risks can be mitigated and the opportunities seized to make the sector more flexile and sustainable following Brexit.

In the document launching the commission, the CIPFA recognises that exiting the EU is likely to generate challenges for the UK’s public services. The group has also identified that there is additional scope to reshape EU legislation and policy to enhance services for the benefit of communities.

To ensure that negotiators behind the deal understand the challenges and opportunities which Brexit poses, the commission will provide evidence-based analysis and impartial advice.

The commission will release analysis later this year that will seek to explain the relationship between UK public services and EU funding.

Julia Goldsworthy, chair, said: “Just as considerations about local public services were a factor in the voting choices many people made in the EU referendum, so too must they play a key part in shaping any Brexit deal.

“The legal, fiscal and policy changes that will accompany Brexit must be converted into meaningful opportunities to reform our public services – improving outcomes for the citizens that rely on them and reducing regional disparities. The commission’s role, as set out in today’s mission statement is to help ensure the UK makes the most of these opportunities and mitigates any risks.”