A consultation on public procurement has been launched by the Cabinet Office, with the aim of creating a level playing field between potential suppliers, giving smaller businesses a fighting chance of securing important public-sector contracts.
The consultation, due to end at 9am on 13th November 2014, invites buyers, suppliers and stakeholders to submit their views and opinions on the new Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Bill. This will see smaller businesses gain better access to PQQ and tender opportunities.
If passed, the new legislation would bring in measures that would put specific duties on contracting authorities, such as running an efficient tender process. It would also make sure that future notices are published every six months, giving potential buyers the chance to invest resources in the relevant skills, labour and capabilities to win!
The Crown Commercial Service is negotiating on behalf of government departments and the public sector to get better value on services and save money for the taxpayer. This will make sure that regulations in the bill will create a simple approach to procurement across the public sector, so that small businesses can gain more access to this market.
If you're a small business and you'd like to know what opportunities are available to you, or you would like more information about alternative routes to market, please contact one of our teams across the UK - Greater Manchester: 01204 238 046, Central Scotland: 01334 208 312, Midlands: 0121 523 1051, email: hello@thorntonandlowe.com/ or visit www.thorntonandlowe.com/
