PPN 03/15 (PCR 2015)

Reforms to make public procurement more accessible to SMEs

Overview

This PPN provides guidance on the legislative reforms to make public procurement accessible to businesses, in particular Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) brought into force by the Public Contracts Regulations 2015 (PCR 2015).

This PPN applies to central government departments, executive agencies, non-departmental public bodies, wider public sector, local authorities and NHS bodies; contracting authorities should refer to Part 4 of the PCR 2015 regarding exceptions.

Whilst the PPN sets out the main features of the legislative reforms it is not a complete guide and is not legal advice. Contracting authorities should refer to PCR 2015 and seek legal advice where necessary.

Note: Adherence to the objectives and key considerations in respect of each commercial stage may be subject to certain exemptions in the PCR 2015. As such, the below is a general guideline only. Contracting authorities should assess on a case-by-case basis whether application of the PPN is required and seek legal advice where necessary.