§ Mr. LuffTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what contractorisation of Patent Office functions has been achieved to date; and if he will make a statement. [28032]
§ Mr. Ian TaylorTwo contracts have been awarded as a result of the Patent Office's drive to improve quality and efficiency where this is compatible with the office's role and good value for money. These awards were made after two competitive tenders in line with EC procurement rules; they are
- (i) for the facilities management of Patent Office accommodation, reception, messenger, post room, porterage and warehouse services. A contract was awarded to WS Atkins Building Management Ltd. and commenced on 1 April 1996 and
- (ii) for the facilities management of the Patent Office London front office, including document reception and public search room facilities. A contract has been awarded to Hays Information Management and will begin on 1 June 1996.
Both contracts are for three years with an option to extend for a further two years at the sole discretion of the Patent Office. The bidders were required to demonstrate against a number of predetermined criteria that their bids were the most economically advantageous. The contracts contain provisions to ensure that the appropriate levels of confidentiality and quality are maintained.