19.02.14
Procurement reform ‘painfully slow’ – CBI
Progress on public procurement reform remains slow, research from the CBI shows.
A lack of commercial skills, inconsistency across government departments and a short-term approach to contracts are key concerns. A survey of CBI members reflected that 61% had seen no change in improved commercial skills of civil servants during the last year, and 21% had seen a deterioration.
The report also shows that 67% feel the government’s performance in standardising procurement processes is poor, with lowest cost still driving most contracting decisions. A more diverse supplier base is needed and standardised processes could help smaller firms to compete, the CBI suggested.
Jim Bligh, CBI’s head of public services said: “We know public procurement reform takes time, but progress has been painfully slow. The Crown Commercial Service must complete its radical overhaul of the process and tackle inconsistency and poor standards. To make this happen Ministers must get behind the reform process to deliver competitive, accountable and transparent markets right across Government.”
Tell us what you think – have your say below, or email us directly at [email protected]