We have repeatedly highlighted longstanding issues with the quality of data held by government and with its ability to use data effectively to support policy interventions. In our 2019 report Challenges in using data across government, we noted the lack of government-wide data standards, ageing IT systems, fragmented leadership, and a culture that does not support sharing data across departmental boundaries.26 In its response, the government agreed to appoint a Chief Data Officer who would ac...

We have repeatedly highlighted longstanding issues with the quality of data held by government and with its ability to use data effectively to support policy interventions. In our 2019 report Challenges in using data across government, we noted the lack of government-wide data standards, ageing IT systems, fragmented leadership, and a culture that does not support sharing data across departmental boundaries.26 In its response, the government agreed to appoint a Chief Data Officer who would act as a single point of accountability for government’s use of data and agreed on the importance of winning the hearts and minds of departments to ensure Type: conclusion | Number: 12 | Response status: not_addressed Government response: 2: PAC conclusion: Government’s ability to make well-informed decisions and address issues as they arise during the pandemic has been hampered by slow progress in addressing longstanding issues with data and legacy IT. 2a: PAC recommendation: HM Treasury and the C