FSB welcomes new portal for public sector contracts

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) today welcomed the official launch of the government’s new internet portal for public sector procurement contracts.

In the past small businesses have been frozen out of supplying to the public sector because of lengthy and complicated application procedures, which many do not have the time and resources to cope with and have, therefore, given up on. The UK’s biggest businesses organisation welcomed the news that small firms will now be given easier access to public sector contracts through the new website.

But the FSB warned that because it is not compulsory for local authorities and government departments to advertise contracts on the site, there must be a sustained effort to publicise the initiative and get businesses and those in charge of public procurement to take part.

David Dexter, FSB Lincolnshire Region Chairman, said: “The new portal is good news for small businesses that have been left out in the cold when it comes to getting work from public sector bodies.”

“It should make it easier and quicker for small businesses to get contracts, but it will only work if government departments and local authorities get behind it wholeheartedly.”

“With preparations for the Olympics gathering pace, there will be valuable opportunities for small businesses across the UK to contribute and we will be urging our members to take advantage of the new service.”