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Small businesses' views sought on winning a greater share of Government business

The committee set up as part of the 2008 Budget to ensure greater SME access to public procurement contracts has issued an online call for evidence as part of its work to help more small and medium sized businesses win public sector contracts. The committee is considering ways to increase opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and the practicality of a goal of such firms winning 30% of all public sector contracts.

Small firms, public purchasers and industry groups are invited to share their experiences of doing business across both central government and local authorities using the portal set up at www.ogc.gov.uk/SME_Consultation.asp. The Glover review will consider issues such as improved tendering procedures, better information for SMEs and reducing the barriers SMEs may face when competing for public sector contracts. The committee builds on previous work to assist SMEs carried out by the Office of Government Commerce (OGC) and the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform.

Speaking of the Budget 2008 initiative, Angela Eagle, Exchequer Secretary said, "The UK is one of the best places in the world to do business. Working in partnership and broadening the opportunities is the key to ensuring the UK is properly equipped to meet the challenges ahead. I want to be sure that SMEs enjoy the same access to public sector contracts as their bigger counterparts and I want to learn of their experiences across small and large contract values in shaping future policy."

UK Government Business Minister Shriti Vadera said, "Many smaller businesses are more innovative and offer better value for money but are often disadvantaged when competing against large companies with more resources to dedicate to tender applications.

"The Anne Glover review will help identify where we can improve accessibility for SMEs and increase their participation in government procurement."

Anne Glover, CEO of Amadeus Capital Partners, who heads up the committee, said, "SMEs play a vital role in the UK's economy and it is important that we make it as easy as possible for them to participate in public sector procurement. An order is more valuable than a grant to an SME because it holds the promise of future business.

"The public sector spends around £160 billion a year on goods and services, and SMEs offer the opportunity to contribute both innovation and value for money to the Government's agenda to deliver world class public services."

The Enterprise Strategy, published alongside the Budget in March, contains a number of measures to provide support to SMEs. It includes a three month free trial, currently available, to provide small and medium sized businesses with access to thousands of public sector contract opportunities via www.supply2.gov.uk.

In Wales, public sector contract tenders can be found at www.sell2wales.co.uk.

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