Friday 12th September 2008
IPS is pleased to announce progress on a number of procurements following the award of the National Identity Scheme (NIS) ‘Strategic Supplier Group’ framework in May 2008. In line with plans a number of firms have been shortlisted to go forward to the next stage of the procurements to engage in more detailed contract discussions for work on the National Identity Scheme and other requirements. These are:
Procurement has also begun within the framework for the design and production of Identity Cards. This procurement exercise is in its early stages and is expected to shortlist suppliers in the coming months.
A UK Borders Agency (UKBA) programme has also initiated a procurement exercise using the SSG framework for a partner to support development of an immigration casework system. This programme has shortlisted EDS, Fujitsu and IBM.
In addition to the procurements being run using the framework, a separate procurement launched in June to replace existing arrangements for the design and production of passports. As part of the process 3M SP&SL, De La Rue, Gemalto and Thales have been shortlisted to engage with IPS in detailed discussions.
Following detailed negotiations with bidders, tenders will be submitted for the contracts. These will be evaluated to decide which firms will be awarded contracts; these contracts are expected to be awarded in 2009.
