Procurement Act 2023

Supporting our members with the Procurement Act 2023

The Procurement Act 2023 brings in a new UK-specific framework, replacing the old EU-derived regulations. It aims to simplify public procurement, improve transparency, and open up more opportunities for SMEs and VCSEs.

To help our members navigate these changes, we’re signposting key guidance that outlines what’s new and how it affects procurement processes.

Highlights include:

  • A single, clearer set of rules replacing the previous four regimes.
  • Greater emphasis on value for money, public benefit, integrity, and SME engagement.
  • New transparency measures like pipeline notices and conflict of interest checks.
  • Updated processes for frameworks, dynamic markets, supplier selection, and contract variations.
  • Ongoing focus on SME access, including below-threshold notices and 30-day payment terms.
  • Transitional arrangements so current procurements can continue under existing rules.

We’re here to support our members as these changes come into effect. If you have any questions about what this means for your institution, please contact your NEUPC team. To access this guidance please click here.

Key Milestones in the Procurement Act Journey

The UK government has published a comprehensive collection of resources to support stakeholders in implementing the Procurement Act 2023. These documents provide the necessary technical guidance and help with interpretation.

The Transforming Public Procurement page on GOV.UK serves as the central hub for all information regarding the legislation. This page includes resources such as:

  • A  Procurement Pathway tool to guide UK public sector contracting authorities through the end-to-end procurement lifecycle.
  • A recording from the webinar series discussing how the new changes will affect procurement processes.
  • An  L&D package, helping organisations prepare for the changes.

Additionally, the National Procurement Policy Statement (NPPS), setting out strategic priorities for public procurement, is expected to come into effect on 24 February 2025. All contracting authorities will need to consider the statement as mandated by Section 13 of the Procurement Act.

Your Roadmap to PA23 Compliance

To help with the practical application of the Procurement Act, the Cabinet Office has published official guidance documents covering key elements of the new legislation, including:

  • Procurement Pathway: A tool that supports procurement professionals throughout the procurement lifecycle. This tool should be used alongside relevant legislation, policy, and guidance.
  • Guidance for the Manage Phase: Including helpful links and documents that outline the steps contracting authorities should follow when implementing the new regulations.

You can find these resources, along with other useful guidance and webinar recordings, on the Transforming Public Procurement on GOV.UK.

Additionally, a process flow document provided by Mills & Reeve/Tussell is available, which could assist you in shaping your future tendering requirements. It outlines new notices and how to navigate the Procurement Act effectively.

For contracting authorities, the updated PPNs are also available on GOV.UK and will help to ensure all steps are in line with the strategic priorities of the Procurement Act.