What powers of direction it has in relation to non-departmental public bodies (NDPBs); what its policy is on the use of such powers, and ho…

Powers of direction vary from body to body. They are usually contained in each body's establishing legislation or other founding framework documentation. Powers may also be contained in legislation relevant to a body's functions or areas of responsibility.NDPBs vary greatly in size and nature of their operations. It is important that the scope and use of powers of direction reflect that variety. The decision to make use of such powers therefore lies with individual ministers, assessing the circumstances on a case-by-case basis.The report Public Bodies: Proposals for Change contained detailed recommendations for improving the Accountability and Governance of NDPBs. It emphasised an approach based on "multiple accountability". This makes clear that NDPBs have a duty to continuously improve and strengthen their links to stakeholders, users and customers and the general public, as well as to be accountable to ministers and the Parliament. A copy of the report is available at:http://www.scotland.gov.uk/library3/government/pbreview.pdf.