The Tribune

By NATARIO McKENZIE

Tribune Business Reporter

nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net

PRIME Minister Perry Christie yesterday said his administration will table legislation to prevent the signing of government contracts between the date of Parliament's dissolution and a general election.

During his contribution on the 2012-2013 Budget, Mr Christie said the Government was committed to putting an end to such practices. He added: "We are committed to putting an end to such practices.

"As we stated in the Speech from the Throne, we will table legislation to prevent the entering into of government contracts, including contracts of employment or the payment of public monies therewith between the date of dissolution of Parliament and the date of general election, unless such contracts or payments are pre-determined by an independent statutory body to be absolutely essential for the maintenance of essential services."

Mr Christie added: "As a matter of priority we will do whatever is necessary such that going forward the Government is properly positioned to more efficiently function, and ensure that public monies are properly spent and accounted to, so that we avoid the type of cost overruns that have been recently witnessed."

Mr Christie said the Government will pay particular attention to large capital expenditure projects that are already in the pipeline, and will monitor those contracts closely to ensure that the terms are respected and full value for money is received.