To consider the future approach to the commissioning of services provided by Hoople.

Cabinet considered a report proposing the future approach to the commissioning of services provided by Hoople. Detailed timescales for developing the business case and implementation plan were being agreed with Hoople.

Cllr C Attwood declared an interest as a board member of Hoople.

In response to issues raised by members in attendance:

• It was noted that savings delivered to date against the original business case had been reported to General Overview & Scrutiny
• Assurance was given that every effort would be made to complete the necessary arrangements in such a way that Hoople’s viability was not adversely affected.

RESOLVED THAT:

(a)  In considering the need to put in place arrangements for the period beyond the end of the current contract in 2016, the preferred approach to the commissioning of support services be via a Teckal compliant entity operating under  control of the council and other shareholders and it’s board, subject to these services offering value for money;

(b)  A business case and implementation plan be developed, in partnership with Hoople and its board, for the establishment of appropriate legal entities to ensure that the council can continue to procure support services through a company with Teckal status and that a commercial trading company is able to continue to develop wider commercial benefits; and

(c)  The business case and implementation plan required under recommendation (b) be the subject of a further report for consideration and approval by the Cabinet Member Corporate Services.