Relaxation for use of accelerated restricted procedure still available in 2011

Readers may recall that in 2009/2010 OGC guidance contemplated a potential relaxation in the conditions required to be met for use of the accelerated restricted procedure as provided for following EU guidance on the impact of the changes in the global financial markets. Recent OGC guidance has confirmed that this relaxation has now been extended until the end of 2011. Contracting authorities are required to keep statistics of how and when the relaxation is used in order that the OGC can report to the EU. This will include information on contract values the type of contract (supplies/works/services) business sector and types of purchased good/services etc.