Upcoming Events :
Seminar: Outsourcing and Contract Procurement
Tue 28 Feb 2012
Minerva House, 5 Montague Close, London, SE1 9BB
Sir Philip Green to lead public spending review
Fri 13 Aug 2010
The government has appointed the head of Arcadia Group to look at how government spending in Britain can be improved.
Sir Philip Green, owner of the company behind brands such as Topshop, Miss Selfridge and Dorothy Perkins, will examine areas such as public procurement to see where money can be saved.
Chief secretary to the Treasury Danny Alexander said the efficiency review will play an important role in determining how the government spends taxpayers' money.
He stated that by being prepared to do things differently, the coalition will be able to deliver more for less and support frontline services.
Mr Alexander also stated that taking "tough decisions" on public spending will ensure the UK is able to live within its means.
Cabinet Office minister Francis Maude added that the government is willing to open up its books for "real external scrutiny".
He said there is a "pressing need" to move forward on the issues of transparency and efficiency in government.
Richard Tinham, head of commercial at Winckworth Sherwood LLP, commented: "Sir Philip clearly knows how to run a profitable enterprise in the private sector and is well known for his shrewd negotiations.
"It will be fascinating to see how his private sector experience crosses over into the area of public spending and the bureaucracy often associated with public procurement.
"One hopes his recommendations will be innovative and will encourage the government and public sector buyers to develop new and more effective means for delivering value for money."
