Summary
The Procurement Act 2023 replaces the Public Contracts Regulations 2015 and other procurement regulations, establishing a new unified procurement regime for England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. It simplifies procurement procedures, introduces greater flexibility, and enhances transparency through a central digital platform. The Act came fully into force in 2024.
Key Points
- Single set of rules replacing multiple regulations
- Procurement objectives: value for money, public benefit, equal treatment (s.12)
- Competitive flexible procedure as default (s.20)
- Central digital platform for notices and transparency
- Direct award justifications for limited circumstances
- Standstill period before contract award
- Enhanced remedies for suppliers including automatic suspension