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<p>All Government Departments publish payment performance quarterly showing the percentage
of invoices paid in 5 days, the percentage of invoices paid in 30 days, and net debt
interest liability. This is available on GOV.UK. The Northern Ireland Office’s payment
performance is available at:</p><p><a href="https://www.gov.uk/search/transparency-and-freedom-of-information-releases?parent=northern-ireland-office&keywords=prompt%20payment&organisations%5B%5D=northern-ireland-office&order=updated-newest"
target="_blank">NIO Prompt Payment Data Link</a></p><p> </p><p>In addition, in accordance
with regulation 113 of the Public Contract Regulations 2015, Contracting Authorities
are required to publish annually the percentage of invoices paid in 30 days online.
This is available as part of the annual report for 21/22:</p><p><a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-northern-ireland-office-annual-report-and-accounts-2021-to-2022"
target="_blank">Annual Report and Accounts 21/22</a></p><p> </p><p>The Procurement
Bill, currently passing through Parliament, will create a simpler and more transparent
procurement regime that will further open up public procurement to SMEs. The Bill
includes a new duty on contracting authorities to have regard to the particular barriers
facing SMEs. Specifically, the Procurement Bill will imply 30 day payment terms into
every sub-contract that is substantially for the purpose of performing a public contract.
This will ensure SMEs at every tier of the public supply chain can benefit from faster
payments, even if 30 day terms aren't explicitly written into the contract.</p><p>
</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p>
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