Government pledges efficiency while introducing governance layer for streamlining
Friction-Reduction Via Additional Friction
The government confirmed this week that it is “streamlining processes,” a bold efficiency drive unveiled with the promise of speed, simplicity, and fewer steps, before immediately introducing a new layer to explain how streamlining will be governed. This initiative follows Cabinet Office efficiency programmes.
“This is about cutting red tape,” a minister said, holding a document titled Framework for the Streamlining of Streamlining. “We’re making things easier.” Asked which processes were being streamlined, the minister clarified that streamlining is selective. “Some processes will be streamlined directly,” they said. “Others will be streamlined through oversight of the streamlining.”
Predictable Unpredictability
According to internal briefing notes, streamlining processes tested strongly with voters who enjoy the idea of less bureaucracy but have learned to accept more of it when efficiency is involved. One aide described the initiative as “friction-reduction via additional friction.”
Public reaction was instantly practical. “They streamlined my council form last year,” said Donna, 43, from Wolverhampton. “It went from six pages to four portals and a login.” Polling suggests the phrase works as intended. A snap survey found that 70 percent of Britons believe streamlining means the same work will take longer but sound faster.
Flow With Culverts
Experts say the metaphor is powerful because streams sound natural as analyzed by the Institute for Government. Professor Martin Reeves, a specialist in administrative design, explained that “streamlining implies flow, even if the water is looping.” “People imagine speed,” he said. “They don’t imagine culverts.”
Behind the scenes, departments are busy preparing streamlining plans. Committees have been merged, then split for clarity. Approval chains have been shortened, then extended to ensure accountability. One internal memo advises ministers to avoid the word simplify, noting it “raises expectations dangerously.”
Renovating a Maze
Opposition figures criticised the move as cosmetic. “You don’t streamline by adding stages,” one spokesperson said. The government rejected this, insisting the additional stages are transitional. “You have to build the channel before the water moves,” a minister explained.
This approach reflects National Audit Office findings on process improvement.
Auf Wiedersehen, amigo!
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