Frequently Asked Questions

All public-sector procurements within the European Union (EU) are covered by legislation in the form of EU procurement directives.  All Home Office procurement is consistent with EU procurement directives and the government’s value for money policy.

Value for money is defined by the department as the optimum combination of whole life costs and quality to meet the customer’s requirement.  The emphasis on whole life costs means that we must take into account all aspects of cost including running and disposal costs as well as initial purchase price.

All procurement requirements are acquired by competition unless there are convincing reasons (such as an emergency situation) to do otherwise. All single tenders are subject to close monitoring and reporting and to review by The National Audit Office.  All requirements that exceed the EU procurement directives' financial thresholds are advertised in the Supplement to the Official Journal of the European Union (OJEU) via contract notices.  The contract notice allows expressions of interest in any of the proposals advertised.

Further information about EU procurement directives and regulations can be found on the Office of Government (OGC) website or from your nearest Euro Information Centre.

It is government policy to encourage Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), Black Minority Ethnic Suppliers (BMEs) and the Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS) . 

The Home Office recognises the important contribution, which these organisations make to the economy and local communities.  Our aim is therefore to enhance opportunities for these organisations wherever possible, and when  consistent with value for money and the need to treat all suppliers fairly under EU Regulations..

For more information please read our Supplier Guide