Contact: Peter Robertson, (01962) 847300

1 Summary

1.1 At the September meeting the Cabinet considered an Investigation report into the letting of IT consultancy contracts in connection with the Contact Centre Programme and requested a report on the following specific issues:

a) Matrix management

b) Procurement issues

c) Centralisation of expertise and the role of County Supplies

d) The involvement of consultants in interviews for the appointment of consultants in similar fields

1.2 This report deals with these issues and the Cabinet is recommended to adopt the proposals in the report at paragraphs 3.4, 3.9 and 3.10.

1.3 The following decisions were made:

a) That guidance is produced by the Monitoring Officer and the County Treasurer to clarify expectations where projects are matrix managed.

b) That the County Council will review its corporate services and procurement issues and roles should be considered in detail as part of that review.

c) On the issue of consultants taking part in the interview of other consultants in similar fields, consultants should be available to give advice but must not take part in the interview process.

d) That a further report on the proposed guidance in a) above be submitted to the Cabinet by March 2008.

2. Reason

2.1 The purpose of the report is to ensure that any lessons learned as a result of analysing the reasons for non-compliance with the County Council's Standing

Orders, European Procurement Regulations and the requirements for letting public contracts are implemented in order to ensure a similar situation does not arise again.

3. Other options considered and rejected

3.1 No other relevant options.

4. Conflicts of interest declared by the decision maker or other Executive Member consulted - none.

5. Dispensation granted by the Standards Committee - not applicable.

6. Reason(s) for the matter being dealt with if urgent - not applicable.

Approved by: Date:
Councillor T.K. Thornber, CBE - Chairman