Single Source Regulations Office
Detail of outcome
The previous methodology was published in 2020 and the update takes into account developments in the SSROs approach since that time. Key changes in the revised methodology include:
- confirmation that we will now additionally report on the quantum of issues arising per report submission to give a more balanced view of the overall quality of submissions;
- better recognition that a key feature of the regulatory framework is that contractors and suppliers are required to provide the SSRO and the MOD with information about their contracts, business unit costs and related activities, with this transparency supporting the MOD by providing statutory sets of standardised data;
- clarification that any initiation of the statutory compliance regime, through compliance or penalty notices, is the responsibility of the MOD;
- confirmation that the SSRO may complete its own reviews within the initial 15 working days from submission if it is clear that there are no issues to be raised on a report;
- confirmation that our additional compliance activities, such as Targeted or Thematic reviews can only be successfully undertaken with stakeholder support; and
- clarification that the SSRO will seek to provide regular compliance MI to both the MOD and to industry.
The methodology makes best use of current resources and aims to avoid duplication with the work of the MOD or unnecessary burden on industry.
Original consultation
Consultation description
The SSRO has been operating its current compliance and review methodology (the methodology) since April 2020. In that time, it has gained a greater understanding of how the regulatory framework is being applied and has continued to review and develop its approach to implementing the methodology.
The SSRO is publishing a consultation paper covering the planned update to the methodology. The proposals include advancing our assessment of the quality of submissions, increased flexibility with respect to the publication of the annual compliance report and detailing our approach to undertaking targeted and thematic reviews.
We believe our proposed updates make best use of current resources and ensures there is no duplication with the work of the MOD.
Responding to the consultation
This is a public consultation, which is open to anyone with an interest in the SSROs two statutory aims of ensuring that good value for money is obtained in government expenditure on qualifying contracts and that the prices paid under these contracts are fair and reasonable. We also welcome comments from people or organisations with a particular interest in defence (non-competitive) procurement.
The consultation runs until 5.00 pm Tuesday 10 January 2023. Written responses should be sent:
- by email to consultations@ssro.gov.uk (preferred); or
- by post to: Compliance and Review methodology consultation responses, SSRO, Finlaison House, 15-17 Furnival Street, London, EC4A 1AB.
- by telephone including arranging an appointment to speak to the SSRO about the consultation: 0203 314 4089.
