, Discuss the measuring of public benefits as it relates to the
spending of public money in detail. In your discussion focus on
fruitless and wasteful expenditure, output and outcomes and
accountability for outcomes.
Measuring Public Benefits and Accountability in Public
Spending
Measuring public benefits in relation to public spending is
crucial for ensuring that taxpayer money is used effectively and
efficiently. This involves evaluating various types of
expenditures, including fruitless and wasteful spending, and
assessing the outputs and outcomes of public projects.
Accountability for outcomes is a key component in this process.
1. Fruitless and Wasteful Expenditure
Fruitless Expenditure refers to spending that yields no
beneficial outcome or value to the public. This includes
situations where the money spent did not achieve any positive
results, either due to poor planning, mismanagement, or lack of
foresight. Examples include:
• Unnecessary Purchases: Buying items or services that
were not needed or that could not be used effectively.
• Cancelled Projects: Spending on projects that are later
abandoned without any tangible benefit.