1.11 The period 2000 to 2005 saw a rapid expansion of PFI. Private finance became the main delivery method for new buildings in some sectors within both local and central Government. The private finance sector began to mature, with greater guidance and support from Departments. Partnerships UK was established in 2000, to help develop the Government's PPP policy, support PPP projects and advise on the approval of PFI funding. It helped the Treasury to develop standardised contracts for PFI, now in their fourth generation. Departments set up Private Finance Units, to manage their programmes of PPPs, engage with the private market and establish guidelines for each sector. Local Partnerships (formerly 4Ps) was established to provide support to local authority projects.
1.12 The NAO continued to investigate major deals such as the PPP deals signed by London Underground with Metronet and Tube Lines. We also started to look at thematic issues in the delivery of PFI projects, such as managing relationships between contract managers and contractors,7 construction performance,8 and refnancing.9
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7 Managing the relationship to secure a successful partnership in PFI projects, National Audit Office (HC 375, 2001-02).
8 PFI Construction performance, National Audit Office (HC 371, 2002-03).
9 The refinancing of the Fazakerley PFI prison contract, National Audit Office (HC 584, 1999-00); The refinancing of the Norfolk and Norwich PFI Hospital: how the deal can be viewed in the light of the refinancing, National Audit Office (HC 78, 2005-06); Update on PFI debt refinancing and the PFI equity market, National Audit Office (HC 1040, 2005-06).