New minister pledges quicker, cheaper bids
08:41 02 Jul 2003
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Lower bid costs and quicker contract awards will form the basis of a new public sector procurement initiative to be unveiled by the government later this year.
The announcement was made by new construction minister Nigel Griffiths. He also vowed to increase the industry's GDP contribution to 10%.
Griffiths told CJ he is working with central government to set up a new web-based procurement system. Although full details have yet to be confirmed, it is believed the new route will mean contractors will not have to supply details such as three years of accounts and individual proof of competence.
A contractor will only require an approved accreditation. This may work as an extension of the Constructionline database.
The Office of Government Commerce is rumoured to be drawing up plans for the new website.
"The new initiative will mean that accredited contractors will be able to get straight on to the website, fill in the forms, and expect a quick response on the success of their bid," he said.
In the short-term, the industry can expect a lot of his time. "I have already spent about 90% of my time on construction since I was appointed," Griffths said. "I have been given my target of at least a 2% rise in the GDP contribution for construction - currently standing at 8%."