Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 15
15
Accepted
ESN technology no longer cutting edge, enabling UK to learn from international approaches
Conclusion
Since 2015, the market for the technology underpinning ESN has matured, so we asked whether ESN is now easier to deliver. The Department agreed that the programme was no longer at the cutting edge of technology.45 It told us that several other countries are now taking a similar approach to ESN, although some use a dedicated network, and others have involved multiple network operators.46 This means that rather than leading the way, the UK can now learn lessons from other countries.47
Government Response Summary
The government agrees, stating the Independent Assurance Panel (IAP) has confirmed other countries are on a similar journey, reinforcing the programme's own international comparative research. The IAP will continue to provide critical assessment.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
1.1 The government agrees with the Committee’s recommendation. Target completion date: end of June 2024 following Lot 2 award 1.2 The Independent Assurance Panel (IAP) has worked with the programme for several years and produced a number of reports. It is tasked by, and reports directly to, the Home Office (the department’s) finance and investment committee on behalf of the Permanent Secretary. 1.3 The department is fully focussed on the programme challenges and will commission an overall report after the new supplier has been appointed. The department will task the IAP on specific topics based on the programme’s progress as it develops. 1.4 The last IAP review endorsed the Emergency Services Mobile Communications Programme (ESMCP) strategic direction and concluded that it represents far superior value for money than delaying, pausing, restructuring, or ending the programme. 1.5 The IAP review confirmed that nearly all countries are on the same journey as the UK, that the global marketplace is now sufficiently diverse, and that the competition to find an alternative supplier to Motorola will attract bids from a wide range of companies. This conclusion reinforces the programme’s own international comparative research. 1.6 The Home Office has delivered a large proportion of the technical programme of work required to start mass transition. The technical solutions for aircraft use between 500 and 10,000 feet has been proven. A successful coastline survey of Great Britain has proven the solution up to 12 miles out to sea. Over 700 of the 1000-plus new masts required have been built and are in operation; the programme is on course for completing 292 rural and remote masts by the end of 2024. Coverage has been provided in 71 special locations, and the programme is on track to provide coverage in the London Underground by the end of 2024. 1.7 The IAP will continue to provide critical assessment and challenge throughout the life of the programme. 1.8 There will be a number of progress reports at various stages through the procurement process.