Central government & non-departmental public bodies

We advise central government departments, agencies and non-departmental public bodies on major public sector projects and services.

Our team’s understanding of the economic and political challenges facing government bodies make us uniquely placed to advise on the legal implications of major projects, achieving practical solutions and minimising risk.

We work with organisations across the UK and are appointed on all the key panels, including (as part of a consortium of firms) the CCS legal services framework, under which we provide a wide range of legal services to government departments and agencies.

Whether our clients are embarking on a major restructuring or technology project, seeking economies via shared services, developing a major infrastructure project, or undertaking an outsourcing or procurement project, our team members are known for their innovative approach and ability to deliver.

As agencies become more innovative in designing new ways of working, it vital to ensure that all activities are in line with employment law regulations, good corporate governance and human rights legislation. We have significant experience of advising on all these aspects.

We also participate in the Government Legal Service training programme.

Case highlights

  • Advising central government department on state aid – very high profile scheme with a value of c£150 million including advice on the extent to which the state aid rules were engaged, the exemptions available and how to use them.
  • Advising a central government department on the state aid compliance of a multi-million pound grant to a number of Scottish local authorities for services of general economic interest (SGEIs).
  • Legal advisers to Houses of Parliament on the Palace of Westminster’s Restoration and Renewal programme.
  • Non-levy procurement for DfE – Provided advice about how best to reframe the new procurement, drafted the procurement documents and the contract and provided ongoing advice on the responses to clarifications and the standstill letters.
  • Contract Simplification Project – Instructed to advise on how best to update and harmonise terms across the ESFA’s contract suite. This involved considering operational issues which were not reflected appropriate in the contracts and current best practice in the market.

What others say

Sharpe Pritchard employees have a manner that puts you at ease. Their experience in this sector provides them with a calm assurance and a thorough understanding of the political environment.

Chambers 2020

I would class them as absolute leaders in the field. They are extremely knowledgeable.

Chambers 2020

They are very professional but, more than that, they clearly demonstrate a desire to deliver the best possible outcome for their clients.

Chambers 2020

Sharpe Pritchard provided an exceptionally professional service. Requests from us were responded to incredibly promptly and they could be relied upon to be there when we needed them. The solicitors possessed excellent practical knowledge and experience of the subject and were comfortably able to advise on more diverse aspects when issues arose.

Executive Director of Commercial Services
Julia Rudin
Managing Partner
Alastair Lewis
Senior Partner
Timothy Farr
Partner, Head of Services
Catherine Newman
Partner
Gemma Townley
Partner

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Central government & non-departmental public bodies