Public Contracts Regulations 2015

When the PCR still matters

The Public Contracts Regulations 2015 (PCR 2015) governed many public contracts before the Procurement Act 2023 came into force. They remain relevant where a procurement commenced under them before 24 February 2025. The transition does not switch an existing competition, framework or dynamic purchasing system to the Act halfway through. The notice, procurement documents and applicable transition guidance should identify the regime.

The PCR contains familiar procedures such as the open, restricted and competitive procedure with negotiation routes. It also uses the terms most economically advantageous tender (MEAT), selection questionnaire (SQ) and contract award notice in a different sequence from the Act. Scotland's devolved public bodies have separate Scottish regulations, so the phrase PCR 2015 does not describe every UK public procurement.

Practical checks for suppliers

Look at the publication date and the legal references in the tender notice. A PCR competition may ask for a standard SQ, apply the PCR exclusion and selection rules, and use a standstill calculation based on the PCR. A call-off from a PCR framework or DPS can remain subject to the previous rules even after 24 February 2025 if the underlying arrangement was established under that regime.

For example, if an authority issued a contract notice under the PCR in December 2024 and invites tenders in 2026, answer the procurement documents under the PCR timetable and terminology unless the authority explains a lawful transition. Do not replace its MEAT or SQ instructions with Act terminology yourself.