Establishment of a Task Force

We have carefully considered the Audit Commission’s recent report on the Youth Hostel Scheme and take both its findings and the public concerns it raises seriously. We are grateful for the opportunity to reflect on how we can strengthen our practices and stewardship of public resources.

Our representatives met with the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau (HYAB) yesterday (5 May) to discuss the Report and to begin setting out our follow-up actions in response to its recommendations.

We accept the recommendations and note the improvement measures being taken forward by the HYAB. We are committed to working closely with the Bureau as we review our own tendering and procurement procedures for the youth hostel. As part of this process, we will establish a task force as soon as possible, comprising independent professionals alongside members of our Council, to review current practices and offer further recommendations in response to public concerns.

We will also arrange to return to the Government the cost of any furniture and equipment that were procured, but not put to use.

The Youth Hostel Scheme was established to support young people access affordable accommodation and opportunities for personal development. We remain committed to that purpose so that we can better meet the expectations of the community we serve.