'Not a morning that will set the world alight, but a good showing'

18 Mar 2010 Voices

Garreth Spillane is blogging today from Acevo's Conservative Summit. Here he summarises the morning session

Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne

No major policy updates, though none were expected in the morning session.

Some points from George Osborne (pictured):

* Wants greater third sector involvement in welfare-to-work and public health
* "value for money is absolutely a key concern"
* Tories favour clearer distinction between commissioning and procurement, commitment to reduce paperwork
* Simplified tendering and reporting that does not preclude not-for-profits and small charities
* Much talk (also by Rt Hon Francis Maude MP) on the move to outcome rather than process rewards
* As expected, discussion of centralisation (of both government and the media!) and how it doesn't best impact local outcomes
* Charities must be innovative and original, professional, and deliver value for money.

It wasn't a morning to set the world alight, but a good showing from the Conservatives. Lunch is very early and there is a good buzz amongst delegates. Probably the most interesting thing this morning has been the language with regards to commissioning and "payment on results". Will see if/how this is expanded on in the afternoon sessions.

We're set to hear from Conservative policy, Treasury, health and charities spokesmen (amongst others).