Locus Association Calls for Level Playing Field in PSI marketplace

The Locus Association today expressed disappointment at the missed opportunity of Budget 2009 in addressing the lack of fair competition in the Public Sector Information (PSI) marketplace.  Whilst the Budget and the accompanying Operational Efficiency Programme, make clear references to Trading Funds, the Government has failed to capitalise on the opportunity the Budget presented for real change and innovation in the PSI sector.

Locus believes that today was a clear chance for Government to transform the Public Sector Information marketplace to the advantage of the public sector, the private sector and the end consumer. The Operational Efficiency Programme follows numerous independent reports, several commissioned by the Government - none of which have suggested that maintaining the current status quo is desirable – yet despite this, the Government has failed to deliver real and positive change that will ensure a level playing field in the marketplace.

Michael Nicholson, Locus Chairman, said “Enhancing access to Public Sector Information (PSI) for re-use - for general economic benefit and as a means of improving services to citizens - is an enduring goal of successive UK Governments but one that has proved elusive.   Government had a clear opportunity to redress this situation with today’s Budget and Locus is frustrated at the Government’s failure on this count”.

“The Government also had an opportunity today to publish the much trumpeted Trading Fund Assessment – yet this too has not been delivered.  Choice, innovation and greater efficiency can only result from the fair competition that a level playing field allows – today’s Budget fails to deliver this to the detriment of all”.

-          ENDS –

 Notes for Editors:

1.       Locus was established in autumn 2005 and formally launched on 26th January 2006. The Association’s President is a former Director General of the OFT and Oftel, Sir Bryan Carsberg.

2.       The Association exists to raise awareness of, and promote the development of, a healthy and competitive private sector in relation to PSI. Locus acts as a forum for exchange of information, keeps its members up to date with latest policy developments, and provides advice and guidance. Our members recognise the potential of PSI, but also the benefit of uniting to address some of the challenges and pooling resources to meet them. It is worth noting that the particular nature of the PSI market structure, where individual private sector organisations have limited influence, lends itself to the development of a trade body.

3.       Enquiries: Harriet Crosthwaite - 020 7340 6260 or harriet@quintuspa.com