Effective regulation protects the rights and safety of citizens, supports fair markets and ensures the delivery of public goods and services. When regulation fails, it can have serious consequences for our finances, safety, the economy as a whole or the environment.

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This overview provides an introduction to regulation, and the NAO’s examination of regulatory performance and spending across government. It includes:

• an introduction to regulation
• information on regulators’ spending and accountability
• key themes and things to look out for
• an overview of key regulators

The report is intended to support Members of Parliament in their scrutiny of regulators and regulation. Along with the fiscal levers of taxation and spending, regulation is a key tool for the government to achieve public outcomes.

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