Written question asked by Lord Brookman (Labour), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Baroness Andrews (Labour) on Monday, 1 October 2007.

Fire and Rescue Service: Firebuy

Question: asked Her Majesty's Government:Whether the stage 3 review of the integrated clothing project (ICP) by 4ps (Public Private Partnerships Programme) gateway review team undertaken over 18 to 20 June will be made public by Firebuy Limited, in order to allow at least a single month's opportunity for wider industry and public comment ahead of any conclusive decisions being taken to award a 15-year ICP contract to a single supplier.

Answer: The stage 3 gateway review, which looked at the investment decision before the contract was placed with the supplier, was received by Firebuy Limited on 9 August. Once it has been considered and approved by the Firebuy Limited board later this month, it is Firebuy's intention to make the gateway review report available. Firebuy Limited is not obliged, and does not intend, to provide for a period of consultation following publication of the gateway review report. Opportunity for comment has been available throughout the tender process. Firebuy's key objective is to reach contract close as soon as possible, in early October 2007, in order to meet the needs of fire and rescue authorities, particularly those with pressing needs, in order that they may fulfil their statutory duties including those arising under the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 5303; 694 c249WA
Session: 2006-07
Notes: Answer received between Monday 17 September and Friday 21 September 2007.
Subjects: Disclosure of information Contracts Fire and rescue services Protective clothing Procurement Public private partnerships FiReBuy
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk