CIVIL servants were handed nearly 900 extra taxpayer-funded spending cards in just one year, official figures reveal.
The number of Government Procurement Cards in the Foreign Office surged from 4,590 in January 2023 to 5,472 in January 2024.
The rise, which occurred under the Tories, marks a staggering 19 per cent increase and has been slammed by Reform UK.
Deputy leader Richard Tice criticized the Tories for what he perceived as misleading promises. According to Tice, the Conservatives talked a big game about cutting waste and reducing taxes, but in reality, they expanded the civil service and burdened taxpayers.
“No matter what the Tories say now, they are the reason for many of the issues we face today as a country.
“Only Reform UK are serious about cutting waste, cutting taxes and streamlining the civil service.”
The figures were obtained through a parliamentary question and Labour ministers defended the increase.
However, Foreign Office Minister Catherine West defended the use of Government Procurement Cards. West highlighted the importance of these cards in facilitating the procurement of goods and services essential for advancing British interests abroad and ensuring the proper functioning of embassies and high commissions.
“All purchases are subject to authorisation by managers and audit checks.”
The Foreign Office has been contacted for comment.
