Overview

• Civil servants must reapply for procurement cards by the end of March, with at least 50% of the cards expected to be permanently canceled.
• Spending on government credit cards has surged from £155 million in 2020-21 to £675 million in 2024-25, prompting the freeze.
• New rules limit hospitality spending to £500, with higher amounts requiring director general approval to prevent extravagant purchases.
• Examples of misuse include luxury items like crystal glassware, sparkling wine, and five-star hotel stays, raising public concerns.
• Labour's initiative is part of a broader effort to streamline Whitehall operations, though experts warn it may hinder key government priorities.