Date Thurs 14 July 2011

New UK government figures show the true cost of PFI, says UNISON

UK government figures released yesterday (Wednesday) show the true cost of private finance initiatives, says Scotland’s largest public service union.

Figures outlined in the whole of government accounts – a new accounting process which has provided the first insight into future financial liabilities of PFI schemes across the UK – listed total capital liabilities arising from PFI contracts at £40bn.

UNISON, the largest union in public services, said the figures provided yet more evidence of how PFI schemes have no place in the delivery of public services.

Dave Watson, Scottish Organiser for UNISON, said: “These shocking figures provide further evidence that the scandal that is PFI is costing taxpayers billions of pounds more than public sector funding.

“There is a mistaken view among some politicians that privatising services improves service delivery and saves the taxpayer money – these figures proves this is simply not the case.

“Time and time again it’s been proven that the best way to deliver public services is by using a directly employed workforce, using in-house resources and funded by public money.”

ENDS

Notes to editors

1. The whole of government accounts can be accessed online at http://www.hm-treasury.gov.uk/psr_government_accounts.htm

2. For further information contact Dave Watson, UNISON’s Scottish Organiser, on 07958 122 409 or Trisha Hamilton, communications officer on 07939 478 461. Alternatively, visit our website at www.unison-scotland.org.uk

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