Decision

To engage the services of Birketts LLP for the purpose of providing occasional specialist legal advice to the Authority on employment law matters.

Reasons for the decision

In line with 4.2.1 of the Procurement Procedure Rules (Procurement of up to £10,000, excluding VAT), the seeking of two prices has been undertaken, with evidence retained by the department.

Following this exercise, the services of Birketts LLP have been engaged on value for money grounds.

Alternative options considered

The Authority could choose not to obtain external legal advice on complex employment law matters. However, as previously stated, this exposes the Authority to significant risk of legal challenge(s).

The Authority could choose to procure the services of the second party who provided a quotation for their services. However, it is considered that this option would not meet the Authority’s obligations under best value legislation.