Arm’s-length bodies' review

Update on the arm's-length bodies review.

HTA responds to the Government’s announcement on its future

On 25 January the Government announced that following a Department of Health consultation, the HTA would be retained as a separate organisation. The consultation responses made it very clear that our regulatory approach was respected and that we should continue to deliver our functions. The Government also announced that an independent review of regulation in this area would be launched. HTA Chair, Baroness Diana Warwick, welcomed this in a HTA press release and said that a review would be an opportunity to build on our positive reputation. She also thanked the HTA’s stakeholders for their support. You can read through the large number of very positive responses to the consultation, and the Government’s final response on the Department of Health’s website.

Many of the responses contained helpful suggestions of ways the HTA could become even more efficient and effective. We know that the status quo is not an option, nor would we want it to be; we are a successful regulator because we have a track record of working collaboratively, streamlining regulation, reducing burden on licensed establishments and saving money. Looking to the future, we are more focused than ever on improving efficiency and effectiveness. You can read more about the HTA work that is underway or that is in our 2013/14 business plan on our website. The Government’s decision received coverage in the Guardian, The Independent, and Research Fortnight and Bionews.