In commencing the procurement reform programme in 2013, the Government decided that the Office of Government Procurement (OGP) be established initially as a Division within my Department, with an intention to establish it thereafter on a statutory basis.
In progressing legislation to establish a body on a statutory basis, there are a number of factors that I must assess including potential benefits, costs, regulatory considerations and risk. I am currently considering this matter. As the Deputy is aware, primary legislation is required to establish the Office on a statutory basis and, to that end, it is included in Government's Summer Legislative programme.