Press Releases

January 2011

Small Firms to Get Help With Government Contracts

South-West chartered accountants Milsted Langdon are advising small businesses in the area that the government has announced plans to make it easier for smaller firms to win public sector contracts.

In future, there will be a target of 25 per cent of contracts going to small and medium-sized businesses, aided by a more open procurement system and a reduction in the use of ‘preferred bidders’ – usually larger companies.

Milsted Langdon partner Jonathan Langdon said: “Individual government departments will be required to publish their procurement contracts in future, together with details of how many of them were awarded to SMEs.

“In addition, the government is pledging to pay most ‘primary’ contractors within five days and ensure firms further up the supply chain receive payment within 30 days.

“We hope this will lead to more opportunities for our clients, and we are able to help them with tenders, if required.”

The measures have been welcomed by the Forum of Private Business (FPB), which said they would help small firms to generate jobs and growth in the economy.

For more information visit www.milsted-langdon.co.uk or call on 0117 945 2500.