Civil servants handed nearly 900 extra taxpayer-funded spending cards in one year

Government Procurement Cards surge under Tories

Official figures have revealed that civil servants were given almost 900 additional taxpayer-funded spending cards within just one year. The number of Government Procurement Cards in the Foreign Office spiked from 4,590 in January 2023 to 5,472 in January 2024, marking a significant 19% increase. This surge, which took place under the Tories, has faced criticism from Reform UK.

Reform UK accuses Tories of bloating civil service

Deputy leader of Reform UK, Richard Tice, expressed his disapproval of the rise in spending cards, stating, "The Tories took taxpayers for a ride. They talked a lot about cutting waste and lowering taxes, but the reality is that they expanded the civil service and burdened taxpayers. No matter what the Tories claim now, they are responsible for many of the challenges our country is currently facing. Only Reform UK is committed to reducing waste, lowering taxes, and streamlining the civil service."

Labour ministers defend increase in spending cards

The figures on the surge in Government Procurement Cards were obtained through a parliamentary question. In response to the criticism, Foreign Office Minister Catherine West defended the increase, highlighting the importance of these cards in enabling key staff to procure goods and services essential for promoting British interests overseas and maintaining embassies and high commissions. West also emphasized that all purchases made using the cards are subject to authorization by managers and audit checks.

The Foreign Office has been approached for comment on this matter.