1.  Introduction & our reason for submitting evidence

The founders of Affinitext have devoted their professional lives to the efficient delivery and maintenance of quality infrastructure globally: the latest iteration of which is in the implementation of new technology for confidently understanding and managing complex contracts. As PFI projects are amongst the most complex of contractual relationships, we have a strong global footprint in that space:

As such, we have the privilege of working closely with various stakeholders, both public and private, in the delivery of PFI projects, and are passionate about the successful delivery of PFI projects. PFI stakeholders we work closely with in the UK include the Ministry of Defence (Authority), Innisfree (Investor), Engie (FM Provider), HCP (Asset Manager), the Institute for Collaborative Working (NFP Institute), and others.

Affinitext has been adopted on USS500+ billion worth of projects worldwide:

Through our wide connections, we arranged for video-conference evidence to be given to the NAO by various stakeholders across the spectrum for the purpose of its June 2020 report into 'Managing the expiry of PFI contracts'.

Indeed, we would like to acknowledge the contribution by the National Audit Office (NAO) in energising an early focus on this important issue. Much of the NAO's work is looking backwards after events have occurred and on identifying lessons to be learned from experience. On this occasion, in highlighting an up-coming issue of concern to all stakeholders, the NAO has promoted an early focus of all stakeholders on this issue, which will increase the likelihood of successful PFI expiries / hand-backs.

Similarly, the PACs' inquiry on this subject hopefully will further increase the likelihood of successful PFI expiries / hand-backs.

Our evidence includes feedback from the various stakeholders we deal with closely.