Ministry of Defence purchasing frameworks - Introduction
Updated 26 March 2024
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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/ministry-of-defence-framework-library-list-of-purchasing-agreements/ministry-of-defence-purchasing-frameworks-introduction
The Ministry of Defence (MOD) published Opportunity and Innovation: the Defence Small-and-Medium-Sized-Enterprise Action Plan in January 2022. The plan contains specific commitments that will help improve the way Defence works with smaller businesses, by overcoming barriers and improving access to opportunities to do business with Defence.
As part of this work, MOD has committed to publishing a library on GOV.UK providing information on key framework agreements, to improve awareness of opportunities.
This is the first time the MOD has published a Framework Library, and we are providing information relating to 15 frameworks initially. This is not an exhaustive list and we aim to develop the library with additional frameworks, with a view to updating this document every six months.
Neither the publication of this library, nor any of the information presented in it, should be taken as a commitment or representation on the part of MOD (or any other organisation) to enter into a contractual arrangement or to proceed with a procurement. Circumstances may change and we cannot guarantee that the requirements, contract value, and/or timeline will be as stated.
Why are we publishing a Framework Library?
The refreshed MOD SME Action Plan includes reference to the Defence Suppliers Forum SME Working Group priorities. Under the frameworks workstream, it was agreed to publish information relating to framework agreements, to improve awareness and provide a forward look that would enable suppliers, including smaller businesses, to plan ahead. MOD also intends that sharing this information will encourage new market entrants and SME involvement.
This complements the information contained within the MOD’s Acquisition Pipeline.
In addition, a list of Crown Commercial Service frameworks can be accessed on the CCS website.
What is a framework agreement?
The Public Contract Regulations 2015 (Regulations) define a framework agreement as: “an agreement between one or more contracting authorities and one or more economic operators, the purpose of which is to establish the terms governing contracts to be awarded during a given period, in particular with regard to price and, where appropriate, the quantity envisaged.” Source: Guidance on Frameworks
In other words, a framework agreement is a general phrase for agreements with providers that set out terms and conditions under which agreements for specific purchases (known as call-off contracts) can be made throughout the term of the agreement.
In most cases a framework agreement will not itself commit either party to purchase or supply, but the procurement to establish a framework agreement is subject to the EU procurement rules.
What is a framework agreement used for?
A framework agreement enables the procurer(s) to place orders or tasks under the framework agreement to participating, pre-assessed, suppliers without having to undertake a full procurement exercise each time they wish to place orders or tasks.
The MOD may order less than the estimated quantities specified in any advert and is not obliged to order, accept or pay for any of the Contractor Deliverables other than those actually ordered and/or authorised under the terms of the Framework Agreement.
Each order or task raised against a framework agreement is a separate legally binding contract relating only to the Contractor Deliverables covered by the particular order or task, subject to the terms and conditions stated in the framework agreement.
Framework agreements can be either sole supplier (historically identified within the MOD as Enabling or call-off Contracts) or multi supplier Frameworks.