Its remit, which does not focus on alleged misdemeanours by individuals, is described by the committee as a "useful check on current standards and the effectiveness, or otherwise of the arrangements in place to ensure the highest standards of propriety in public life".

BBC: Sir Christopher Kelly

And this is new for him, because up until now the Republican Congress has given him a blank check with no oversight, no standards, no conditions.

NPR: Pelosi Vows 'No Blank Check' on Iraq War

The health check assesses whether hospitals are meeting essential standards and how they are faring against government targets.

ECONOMIST: Hospital care