Brussels, 29/07/2011 (Agence Europe) - Parties concerned appear divided over how appropriate it is to make e- procurement compulsory, according to a summary of 77 responses that the European Commission has received as part of the public consultation exercise initiated by the Green Paper and published on Friday 29 July (see EUROPE 10238). Of all opinions expressed, 53% - mainly businesses and individuals - call for a European legislative initiative. Half of the public administrations that took part in the survey are not in favour as they fear e-tendering will entail less participation and additional difficulties for small public entities. Adjudicating authorities that are in favour of e-procurement justify their stance by the need to set an example, and 65% of respondents believe that EU law should explicitly give each member state the possibility of making competitive e-procedures compulsory.
Opinions are, however, divided when it comes to how appropriate it is to ease the obligations on contracting authorities that resort to electronic procurement. Those in favour consider this would be a good way to make such procedures attractive, while the others wonder what kind of obligations could be relaxed.
The Commission, moreover, has announced that it will be setting up an informal group of experts, which will be tasked with developing a proposal by the end of 2012 for common solutions on e-procurement. Those interested are invited to apply by the end of September. Finally, a study entrusted to an external consultant, will aim to set out the benefits. (M.B./transl.jl)