NS will have to ensure that the development of third party business will allow handback arrangements to run smoothly

2.17  The handback arrangements envisaged in the contract assume that SBS's physical assets, software, and staff used for National Savings work will be identifiable and transferable back to National Savings when the contract comes to an end. Contractual provision exists for National Savings to retain a register of staff and assets used in the delivery of the operational service. All third party business to date has not required the use of any shared assets and this is likely to remain the case with most or all future third party work. The possibility exists, however, of third party business requiring the use of shared assets. In such circumstances, National Savings and SBS will jointly agree any proposals before they can proceed and it will be important for National Savings to satisfy itself as to the transferability and handback arrangements prior to giving its agreement.

2.18  Contracts for complex partnerships should be dynamic documents capable of being maintained and changed to suit changing circumstances. The maintenance of this contract will be in the interest of both partners. National Savings wish to keep the contract up to date so that there is as much clarity as possible as to what is expected of both partners. It will also help to ensure that disputes with SBS are avoided and enable National Savings to be in a position to re-tender for a new private sector partner at any point during the life of the contract. Detailed procedures are included in the contract and both parties have agreed roles and responsibilities to facilitate the agreement of changes, which can then be incorporated into the contract. These are shown at Figure 8.