Procurement Review Unit (PRU) / National Security Unit for Procurement (NSUP)

Procurement Review Unit

The Procurement Act 2023 introduces a Procurement Review Unit (PRU) which comprises of an independent panel of procurement experts empowered to investigate potential procurement challenges and provide advice. The PRU will have authority to investigate a Contracting Authorities (CA) compliance with the Act and CAs will have a duty to implement any recommendations made. The PRU however will not have the authority to adjudicate on the lawfulness of a particular procurement.

The PRU team have now commenced engagement with contracting authorities that undertake strategic supplier relationship management, to explore ways of working together in regards to the management of potential debarment cases.

In March, they will also focus on communicating with wider stakeholders, including publishing an Oversight Ambitions document.

National Security Unit for Procurement

The Government has established a National Security Unit for Procurement (NSUP) in the Cabinet Office to support implementation of the new powers in the Act to exclude and debar suppliers where there is a threat to UK national security.  Specific guidance is being developed for contracting authorities and is expected to be published in the Summer.