B.2 The TAP process aims to improve the quality of scrutiny of projects by the Treasury to achieve better value for money. The TAP approval process will review those projects that are outside departmental delegated authority but fall below the MPRG scrutiny requirements (usually above £1bn.)
B.3 The TAP process has 5 key principles:
• Consistency: TAP will be applied across Whitehall with final decisions being signed off at Ministerial, Treasury Director or Deputy Director level and communicated in writing by HMT.
• Discrete process: The TAP process will have an agreed end date, allowing departments to fit the TAP process around their project timelines.
• Improve VfM: TAP will focus on VfM and deliverability, in addition to the traditional issues of affordability and economics.
• Clear Process: The Treasury and departments will have a much better idea of when a project needs Treasury approval.
• Green Book: TAP requires that departments prepare business cases in line with the best practice Five Case Model, as set out in Green Book guidance.