MAS: Farnish report recommends staff and budget cuts

clock

An independent review of the Money Advice Service (MAS) will recommend it cuts more than half its staff and reduce its budget by as much as 38%, according to a report.

The Treasury-commissioned review by former National Association of Pension Funds chief Christine Farnish suggests cutting the MAS's full-time staff from 130 to around 50 and its £81.1m budget to between £50m and £65m, according to a draft copy seen by The Telegraph. While the Furnish review points out the service has "an important job", it suggests many of the financial services it offers are covered adequately by other organisations and websites. The report suggests it should be the MAS division that provides information on mortgages, savings and other matters - rather than the propo...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Regulation

FCA urged to 'think again' on targeted support annuity rules

FCA urged to 'think again' on targeted support annuity rules

Regulator’s MoneyHelper signpost criticised as a ‘real limit’

Isabel Baxter
clock 03 September 2025 • 2 min read
FCA continues data reporting cuts

FCA continues data reporting cuts

Regulator removes more data returns

Isabel Baxter
clock 28 August 2025 • 1 min read
Regulatory and employment-related changes – what do firms need to prepare for?

Regulatory and employment-related changes – what do firms need to prepare for?

‘Getting these issues right is not just about avoiding regulatory action or tribunal claims’

Sophie White
clock 21 August 2025 • 4 min read