Overview

• Reform UK's Department for Government Efficiency released audits on July 12–13 detailing ten councils’ expenditures, including £162,077 at Amazon, £70,056 at Argos, £11,521 at Currys and £12,328 on gift cards in Kent.
• Kent County Council recorded spending on unaccompanied minors’ outings such as £279.91 at Santus Circus, £6,055 at a local swimming pool and £55.50 at Mr Mulligans Crazy Golf.
• Fast food expenses across Reform-controlled councils topped £118,000 and TV subscription services accounted for over £10,000, all reimbursed by central government.
• Councils argue these costs fulfill legal duties to integrate and protect vulnerable children and care leavers, reducing exploitation risks under UK asylum policy.
• Reform UK plans further efficiency reviews to challenge central-local funding arrangements and intensify the debate over fiscal accountability in migrant support.