Improving the SSRO’s response to contract-specific queries on the regulatory framework for single source defence contracts
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Detail of outcome
From November to December 2023 the SSRO sought views from stakeholders on four proposals for improving the way it responds to contract-specific queries on the regulatory framework for single source defence contracts. The SSRO has today published a summary of the feedback given on its proposals and how it intends to proceed with developments in this aspect of its work.
Following the consultation, the SSRO has:
- published a Code of Practice setting out the high-level principles which guide its approach to responding to queries about the regulatory framework for single source defence contracts;
- published information for stakeholders on its new non-referral advice service, explaining how contract-specific queries can be raised with the SSRO and how it will deal with these; and
- updated its procedural guidance for opinions to note that these might be available in some limited cases within 10 working days of referral acceptance and to identify the circumstances in which this may be possible.
The SSRO will undertake further work in 2024/25, in consultation with stakeholders, to consider in more detail how requests for supplementary guidance in response to contract-specific matters might be raised for consideration and response by the SSRO.
Original consultation
Consultation description
The SSRO receives and responds to a wide range of queries from stakeholders about the regulatory framework for non-competed defence contracts and how it should be applied to regulated contracts. Most queries are dealt with by signposting enquirers to existing SSRO guidance. Some queries, however, are more complex in nature and require detailed responses. Responding to these queries involves more extensive consideration by SSRO staff and usually requires enquirers to provide additional information about the terms of specific contracts and the issues underpinning their queries.
The SSRO wants to provide more effective and timely responses to such contract-specific queries. This includes giving formal opinions more quickly when relevant matters are referred to the SSRO. Developing these aspects of the SSRO’s support to stakeholders will better assist the Ministry of Defence and its suppliers to deliver the improvements in defence acquisition set out in the government’s Defence and Security Industrial Strategy.
The SSRO is seeking feedback from stakeholders on the improvement proposals outlined in its consultation paper. The proposals are intended to provide a more accessible, timely and relevant service to meet stakeholders’ needs. The feedback we receive will be used to further refine the proposals and inform our decisions on implementation.
Following consideration of the consultation responses, the SSRO will publish details in spring 2024 of any changes it will make to the way it responds to stakeholder queries.
Responding to the consultation
The consultation is open to all interested persons. We particularly welcome comments from individuals or organisations with an interest in single source defence procurement and how the regulatory framework is applied to qualifying contracts.
Consultation responses should be sent:
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by email to: consultations@ssro.gov.uk (preferred); or
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by post to: Improving the SSRO’s Responses Consultation, SSRO, G51/G52, 100 Parliament Street, London, SW1A 2BQ.
Written responses to the consultation should be received by 5.00pm on 20 December 2023. Responses received after this date may not be considered.
The SSRO also welcomes the opportunity to meet with stakeholders to discuss the proposals during the consultation period. If you wish to discuss the proposals, please contact us by email (david.pottruff@ssro.gov.uk) or by telephone (020 3589 4556) to arrange a meeting.
Documents
Updates to this page
Published 9 November 2023Last updated 8 April 2024 + show all updates
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Consultation response published
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First published.