Overview

This bill establishes an Office of the Whistleblower in the UK to improve support for individuals who report wrongdoing. The office will provide advice, resources, and potentially financial compensation to whistleblowers, strengthening protections under existing legislation.

Description

The bill creates a new Office of the Whistleblower. Key functions include:

• Administration of whistleblowing arrangements: Overseeing and improving systems for reporting wrongdoing.
• Consultation and Reporting: Consulting on and reporting on potential changes to existing whistleblowing legislation (Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998 and its Northern Ireland equivalent).
• Support for Whistleblowers: Acting as a contact point for whistleblowers, providing advice, and maintaining a panel of legal and advisory professionals.
• Financial Assistance: Managing a fund to support whistleblowers and providing financial redress for those harmed by their disclosures.
• Annual Reporting: Publishing an annual report to Parliament on its activities.

The Secretary of State must establish the Office within one year of the Act's passing, subject to parliamentary approval of the regulations.

Government Spending

The bill will necessitate government spending to establish and operate the Office of the Whistleblower, including funding for staff, resources, the support fund for whistleblowers, and potential financial redress payments. Exact figures are not specified in the bill.

Groups Affected

• Whistleblowers: Will potentially benefit from increased support, advice, and financial assistance.
• Employers and Organisations: May face increased scrutiny regarding their whistleblowing processes and handling of disclosures.
• Government Departments: Will be responsible for establishing and funding the Office, and for implementing any changes to existing legislation.

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