NEWS ITEM


Back to News & Events



Inquiry into public procurement for SMEs launched today


25 November 2008



The government’s introduction of a new internet portal to make tendering easier for contracts worth £20,000 or higher comes when the new inquiry will look into the barriers small firms face in bidding for and winning public sector contracts. The enquiry will inform the APPSBG’s response to the recommendations outlined in the Glover Review, published yesterday by the government. Andy Love, chair of the APPSBG says: “The UK’s public sector spends around £175bn a year on goods and services contracts. A level playing field for SMEs will not only provide smaller suppliers with a reliable revenue source, it will also give the public sector access to higher quality, substantial lifetime cost savings and superior service. “The government’s proposal shows much-needed commitment to a level playing field. This should be reflected in the detail of the scheme.

We look forward to a free service matching opportunities with potential suppliers throughout the supply chain; streamlined pre-qualification through standardised, online business profiles; integrated guidance and information services; and active use of this resource by all government bodies.” Interested parties are invited to submit a brief written memorandum by 4th December and oral evidence sessions will be held between 2pm and 4pm on Monday 8th and Monday 15th of December in the Grand Committee room. A full list of inquiry issues can be found on ACCA’s public affairs website section http://www.accaglobal.com/publicinterest/pressandpolicy/unit/business_groups but suggested issues include:


1. The role of SMEs in government contractors’ value chains
2. Risk and SME suppliers – perception, reality and signalling
3. Improving the public sector’s record in prompt payment of suppliers
4. Linking procurement capability with SME access
5. SMEs’ interest in public procurement
For further information:
Helen Thompson, ACCA Newsroom
+44 (0)20 7059 5759
+44 (0)7725 498654
helen.thompson@accaglobal.com