Ministries drive way beyond budgets with vehicle expenses

Several ministries and departments exceeded their vehicle budgets, according to a report released by the top audit watchdog on Wednesday.

The National Audit Office report, reviewing the budgets of 49 ministry-level organizations in 2011, also disclosed inappropriate spending or earmarking of funds for overseas trips.

The report's findings are part of efforts to promote greater accountability and cut what are referred to as the "three expenses" - overseas trips, vehicles and receptions. The public has expressed concern after recent publicized cases that involved exorbitant expenditure.