Government Shared Services 2026-03-05
2026-03-05
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
Discussions around the procurement of business process services within the Synergy programme, a shared services initiative across government departments.
What discussions he has had with Cabinet colleagues on the procurement of the business process services element of the Synergy programme in the context of shared services across Government.
The Cabinet Office provided support to the Department for Work and Pensions on this matter, including by sharing the lessons learned from the recent transition of the civil service pension scheme.
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Assessment & feedback
The answer did not address the specific procurement discussions with Cabinet colleagues.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Capita is the preferred bidder for a £700 million contract for shared services across Departments. There are concerns about Capita's performance in administering the civil service pension scheme, affecting hundreds of constituents.
Last week, I heard that the Government have made Capita the preferred bidder for a £700 million contract for shared services across Departments. Are they having a laugh? Given Capita's appalling performance in administrating the civil service pension scheme, which has affected hundreds of my constituents, will the Minister urgently review the procurement process for this contract? Will he commit to bringing this work back in-house to ensure that Capita does not mess this contract up as well?
My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions has sought and received specific assurances from Capita regarding the Synergy contract. Members across the House should be in no doubt about this Government's desire to hold Capita robustly to account for its responsibilities under its contracts.
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Assessment & feedback
The answer did not commit to reviewing the procurement process or bringing the work back in-house.
Response accuracy