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APSE hosted a high level strategic forum at INLOGOV today on the issue of strategic commissioning. Speakers included Steve Griggs and Helen Sullivan from INLOGOV and Michael Hughes, Director of Studies at the Audit Commission.

Debate raged for a couple of hours amongst the audience from central government, the academic world, senior elected members and officers from local government. One of the strongest themes to emerge was the impossibility of entering into long term contracts in today’s rapidly changing and dynamic world. I think it is fair to say that there was a general consensus around this point given peoples experience to date.

Another strong line was that there was an orthodoxy which bubbled just below the surface amongst auditors and others that unless you are outsourcing services then you are in some way deficient in your approach. It was agreed that this had to be challenged. Ultimately those present recognised that there will be times when it is appropriate to procure services from the market or third sector but not on every occasion and indeed there are inherent benefits from keeping a significant level of services directly delivered by the local authority.

A healthy debate took place amongst policymakers, politicians and those responsible for ensuring public services are delivered effectively, which hopefully brings some balance and insight for those involved in the world of strategic commissioning.