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www.gov.uk/natural-england
Financial Scheme of Delegation
Approved by James Cross, Chief Executive
With effect from 1st February 2018
Introduction
Spending controls
A Budgets
B Expenditure Justification
C Spending
D Grants
E Procurement
F Disposals (non land)
G Charging by Natural England
H Commercial Licences issued
I Bank Accounts
J Borrowing Powers/Loans
K Insurances
L Financial Irregularity
M Write offs
N Gifts
O Financial Systems
P Information Systems
Q Emergencies
R Overseas visits
S Land and NNRs
T Coastal Access
U Compensation claims etc.
V Corporate memberships
W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual Accounts
X Governance
Annex 1 Specified officers 2◄Previous
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IntroductionTThe purpose of this introduction is to help staff in their understanding of how expenditure has been delegated to them through the budget setting process. The Financial Scheme of Delegations covers all financial transactions or transactions which have monetary implications e.g. loans, scheme payments etc.
The Board has delegated certain functions to the Chief Executive. The Chief Executive has, in turn, delegated some of those functions to officers of Natural England as set out in this Scheme of Delegation. The Scheme of Delegation provides authority for officers to operate. The Board expect us to adhere to these delegations. The delegations may be reviewed and changed by the Board at any time.
Programme pay and non-pay budgets are allocated directly to teams. Following the allocation of the budget the team then has the authority to spend within the limits and under the authorities allowed by the Financial Scheme of Delegation.
We have included within the FSoD all of the spending controls which Cabinet Office have instructed should apply to all departments and NDPBs.
The Chief Executive has the power to grant/revoke financial delegations.
Natural England has transferred all of its Corporate Services functions (IT, Finance, HR, Procurement, Estates and Communications) and associated expertise to Defra employed staff who act as our business partners to assist us in making decisions. NE officers are expected to consult with Finance, HR, Estates, Commercial and IT business partners as appropriate in making decisions and we have sought to signpost this in the Scheme of delegation. However ultimate responsibility and accountability for the financial decisions remain within Natural England.
Before using the scheme you must ensure that you have read and understood the principles in the guidance to Natural England’s Scheme of Delegation. We expect to achieve a high standard of compliance with our governance arrangements in Natural England and it is important that you have therefore both understood these principles and apply them consistently to every transaction.
Julie LuntChief Officer Legal & Governance
Introduction
Spending controls
A Budgets
B Expenditure Justification
C Spending
D Grants
E Procurement
F Disposals (non land)
G Charging by Natural England
H Commercial Licences issued
I Bank Accounts
J Borrowing Powers/Loans
K Insurances
L Financial Irregularity
M Write offs
N Gifts
O Financial Systems
P Information Systems
Q Emergencies
R Overseas visits
S Land and NNRs
T Coastal Access
U Compensation claims etc.
V Corporate memberships
W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual Accounts
X Governance
Annex 1 Specified officers 3
Spending controlsIn light of the Cabinet Office spending controls Natural England has introduced a spending review panel to approve all identified spend:
a) over £10,000 which will result in a contract award, contract variation, Memorandum of Agreement, collaboration or partnership agreement, licence or Purchase Order: and
b) all identified spend irrespective of value on: i) marketing advertising and communications ii) consultancy iii) temporary staff, interns and contractors. iv) ICT projects
To learn more about how to make a proposal to the spending review panel see the guidance on the intranet at: http://neintranet/daytoday/procurement/spendingcontrols/Pages/default.aspx.
Note: These controls are subject to change, you must refer to the guidance on the intranet for the up to date position
Summary of key actions and processesAdvertising, marketing and communicationsExpenditure on essential activity only and all contracts where possible must be procured through approved frameworks. Any advertising, marketing and communications spend up to £20k is to be approved by the CEO Spend above £20k must be approved by the CEO (delegated) and Defra.
Over £100k requires CEO (delegated), Defra and Cabinet Office approval.
Strategic supplier management and complex commercial models Departments must ensure that any contact with strategic suppliers on negotiations or legal disputes is channeled through the Cabinet Office.
Information and Communications Technology (ICT)Central government departments, agencies and NDPBs must adhere to the Government Technology Code of Practice in respect of any technology spend, including securing Cabinet Office approval for spend above specific thresholds. Refer to the Code and to the related Cabinet Office guidance on the ICT spending controls for full information.
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Introduction
Spending controls
A Budgets
B Expenditure Justification
C Spending
D Grants
E Procurement
F Disposals (non land)
G Charging by Natural England
H Commercial Licences issued
I Bank Accounts
J Borrowing Powers/Loans
K Insurances
L Financial Irregularity
M Write offs
N Gifts
O Financial Systems
P Information Systems
Q Emergencies
R Overseas visits
S Land and NNRs
T Coastal Access
U Compensation claims etc.
V Corporate memberships
W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual Accounts
X Governance
Annex 1 Specified officers 4
ConsultancyCEO must approve all spend on consultancy contracts of less than 9 months duration and up to £49,999 For values that exceed £49,999 and are less than nine months in duration Defra DG sponsor and the Defra Director of Network Corporate Services (NCS) will also be required to approve the spend.
Consultancy contracts that are longer than nine months and exceed £20,000 will continue to require approval from the Director NCS, Defra Business Partner HR, Defra Business Partner Finance, and the Minister for the Cabinet Office.
Recruitment and temporary staffA freeze on all external recruitment (where applicable), with exemptions for frontline and business critical posts. Recruitmentof existing employees between government departments, agencies and NDPBs (where applicable) is allowed.
PropertyDefra to agree any new leases, renewals of existing leases, the non-exercise of lease break options, any new propertyacquisitions (including those made through a PFI provider), new build development, sale and leaseback, and any freehold sales as part of national property controls.
The spending level at which exemption cases for marketing, advertising and communications are agreed are:
Over £100,000 Defra and Cabinet OfficeUp to £100,000 DefraUp to £20,000 Chief executive
The spending level at which exemption cases (Business Exemption Case eRAP Request Form) for consultancy up to 9 months are agreed are:
Over £49,999 Defra Up to £49,999 Chief executive
The spending level at which exemption cases for consultancy over 9 months are agreed are:
Over £20,000 Defra and Cabinet Office
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Introduction
Spending controls
A Budgets
B Expenditure Justification
C Spending
D Grants
E Procurement
F Disposals (non land)
G Charging by Natural England
H Commercial Licences issued
I Bank Accounts
J Borrowing Powers/Loans
K Insurances
M Write offs
N Gifts
O Financial Systems
P Information Systems
Q Emergencies
R Overseas visits
S Land and NNRs
T Coastal Access
U Compensation claims etc.
V Corporate memberships
W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual Accounts
X Governance
Annex 1 Specified officers
L Financial Irregularity
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Part A Budgets Limit Authorised Officer
A.1 Approval of annual budget Board
Approval of draft annual budget Chief Executive
Approval of Team Performance Indicators and accompanying indicative Team Budget
Appropriate Chief Officer
Virements
1. Authorising transfers of sums within the overall team budget.
Regardless of Value Appropriate Director or Area Manager in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance. (evidence of approval required only for those over £20,000)
Where proposed total virements from one budget type to another exceed 10% you must consult Chief Exec
2. Authorising transfers of sums between team budgets.
Above £500,000
Up to £500,000
Up to £100,000
Up to £50,000
Chief Executive in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance (evidence of approval required)
Appropriate Chief Officer in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance (evidence of approval required)
Appropriate Director/Area Manager in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance. (evidence of approval required)
Appropriate Director/Area Manager in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance (evidence of approval only required over £20,000)
Introduction
Spending controls
A Budgets
B Expenditure Justification
C Spending
D Grants
E Procurement
F Disposals (non land)
G Charging by Natural England
H Commercial Licences issued
I Bank Accounts
J Borrowing Powers/Loans
K Insurances
L Financial Irregularity
M Write offs
N Gifts
O Financial Systems
P Information Systems
Q Emergencies
R Overseas visits
S Land and NNRs
T Coastal Access
U Compensation claims etc.
V Corporate memberships
W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual Accounts
X Governance
Annex 1 Specified officers 6◄Previous
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Part B Expenditure JustificationLimit Authorised Officer
B.1 Approval to proceed for project and programme management
Subject to:
a) The Standard for Programme and Project management
Major Projects: All projects and programmes with a defined lifetime where revenue/resource expenditure which exceed £75 million (down from £100m) must be referred to Treasury for approval.
Over £5.0m
Up to £5.0m
Up to £1.0m
Up to £500.000
Natural England Board and Defra
Chief Executive in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Chief Officer in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Director or Area Manager in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
B.2 Approval to authorise additional expenditure for agreed programmes / projects, subject to:
a) The Standard for Programme and Project management.
b) Submission to Defra if the increase brings new total cost above Defra authorisation thresholds (Section B1 approval)
Note: Once authorised, approval to spend is subject to the procurement delegations within this FSoD
Over £500,000
Up to £500,000
Up to £100,000
Chief Executive in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Chief Officer in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Director or Area Manager in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Introduction
Spending controls
A Budgets
B Expenditure Justification
C Spending
D Grants
E Procurement
F Disposals (non land)
G Charging by Natural England
H Commercial Licences issued
I Bank Accounts
J Borrowing Powers/Loans
K Insurances
L Financial Irregularity
M Write offs
N Gifts
O Financial Systems
P Information Systems
Q Emergencies
R Overseas visits
S Land and NNRs
T Coastal Access
U Compensation claims etc.
V Corporate memberships
W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual Accounts
X Governance
Annex 1 Specified officers 7◄Previous
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Limit Authorised Officer
B.3 Other
Authority to:a) Approve justified expenditure from budgeted fundsb) Approve payment
And subject to:a) Any contract being awarded on a competitive basis,
or with prior single tender action approval
b) Consultation with Procurement Network Corporate Services staff if over £10k
d) FSoD delegations on contractual commitment in Section E
e) IS acquisitions - Section P.2
This section covers both programme/project and non programme/project expenditure
Over £3m
Up to £3m
Up to £500,000
Up to £100,000
Up to £25,000
Up to £2500
Chief Executive in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Chief Officer in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Directors or Area Manager in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Team Managers/Principal Advisers
Appropriate Team Leaders/Senior Advisers
Default all staff
B.4 Recharge costs
Approval of recharge costs for Defra Shared ServiceAgreements and Genesis costs or other re-charges
All Chief Executive in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
B.5 Authority to trade in Basic Payment scheme Entitlements
Disposal and acquisition (by lease, sale or purchase) of Basic Payment Entitlements
Over £50,000
Up to £50,000
Chief legal and Governance officer in consultation with Senior Estates Adviser Natural England
Senior Estates Adviser Natural England
Introduction
Spending controls
A Budgets
B Expenditure Justification
C Spending
D Grants
E Procurement
F Disposals (non land)
G Charging by Natural England
H Commercial Licences issued
I Bank Accounts
J Borrowing Powers/Loans
K Insurances
L Financial Irregularity
M Write offs
N Gifts
O Financial Systems
P Information Systems
Q Emergencies
R Overseas visits
S Land and NNRs
T Coastal Access
U Compensation claims etc.
V Corporate memberships
W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual Accounts
X Governance
Annex 1 Specified officers 8◄Previous
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Part C SpendingLimit Authorised Officer
C.1 Approval to spend - Government Purchasing Cards
Incur expenditure by Purchasing Cards subject to:
a) Competition having taken place over £2.5k or with prior single tender action approval (Section E.3)
b) Consultation with Procurement Network Corporate Services over £10k
C) Controls over set-up and variations to purchasing card transaction limits
d) Additional FSoD authorisation for individual transactions over generic £2.5k
All Chief Executive in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
C.2 Approval of staff expenditure
a) Travel and subsistence claim forms
b) Assignment , disturbance and posting
c) Claim forms
d) Overtime, call out/standby claims
e) Relocation claim forms
f) Purchasing card expenditure (subject to C.1 limits)
Subject to spend being within authorised budgets
Chairman
Deputy Chair
Chief Executive
Board members
Chief Officer
All other staff
Signed off by Chair, Audit and Risk Assurance Committee
Signed off by Chairman
Signed off by Chairman
Signed off by Executive Office Director
Signed off by Line Manager
Line Managers
Introduction
Spending controls
A Budgets
B Expenditure Justification
C Spending
D Grants
E Procurement
F Disposals (non land)
G Charging by Natural England
H Commercial Licences issued
I Bank Accounts
J Borrowing Powers/Loans
K Insurances
L Financial Irregularity
M Write offs
N Gifts
O Financial Systems
P Information Systems
Q Emergencies
R Overseas visits
S Land and NNRs
T Coastal Access
U Compensation claims etc.
V Corporate memberships
W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual Accounts
X Governance
Annex 1 Specified officers 9◄Previous
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Part D GrantsLimit Authorised Officer
D.1 Discretionary Grants
e.g. grants to NGOs
Authorise grant payments subject to:
a) Grant making powers in NERC Act 2006
b) Finance Act 1996 for landfill contributions
c) SoD guidance on grants
d) Staff making commitment ONLY through raising appropriate Oracle requisitions or with the approval and signature of any other contract documents by Commercial Estates & Knowledge (CEK)
e) Consultation with Legal regarding novel or contentious grants
Over £1,000,000
Up to £5,000,000
Up to £2,000,000
Up to £500,000
Up to £100,000
Up to £10,000
Chief Executive in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Chief Officer in consultation with Defra group Commercial G7
Appropriate Chief Officer in consultation with Defra group Commercial G6
Appropriate Director or Area Manager in consultation with Defra group Commercial SEO
Budget holder in consultation with SEO Defra group Commercial HEO
Budget holder in consultation with HEO Defra group Commercial
D.2 Heritage Management Plan Grants Over £1,000,000
Up to £1,000,000
Up to £250,000
Up to £50,000
Up to £10,000
Chief Executive in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Chief Officer in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Director or Area Manager in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Manager
National Heritage Adviser
Introduction
Spending controls
A Budgets
B Expenditure Justification
C Spending
D Grants
E Procurement
F Disposals (non land)
G Charging by Natural England
H Commercial Licences issued
I Bank Accounts
J Borrowing Powers/Loans
K Insurances
L Financial Irregularity
M Write offs
N Gifts
O Financial Systems
P Information Systems
Q Emergencies
R Overseas visits
S Land and NNRs
T Coastal Access
U Compensation claims etc.
V Corporate memberships
W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual Accounts
X Governance
Annex 1 Specified officers 10◄Previous
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Limit Authorised Officer
D.3.1 S.7 Management Agreements for NRA/CES/WES and Section 15
Subject to:
a) Grant making powers in NERC Act 2006
b) Power to enter into management agreements under NERC Act 2006
c) Approval process for acquiring land as an NNR using a Nature Reserve Agreement in NFSoD
Authorisation/approval limits for new and renewal CES and CES/NRA agreements and for CES/NRA/WES/Section15 agreements for reviews, variations, novation’s, extensions and release of all management agreements.
Annual limit over £1 million and a total limit over £10 million
Annual limit up to £1 million and a total limit up to £10 million
Annual limit up to £500,000 and a total limit of £2 million
Annual limit up to £150,000 and a total limit of £750,000
Annual limit up to £15,000 and a total limit of up to £75,000
All subject to CES Panel approval, and: Board and Defra
Chief Executive in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Chief Officer in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Area Manger in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
CES Panel
D.3.2 Signing Section 7 Management Agreements, including reviews Variation, Novation and Release Agreements by hand and in the absence of the seal (after authorisation in D.4.1 )
Signing Deeds and Agreements under seal for any management agreement and / or associated documents after authorization in accordance with D.4.1
Annual limit over £1 million and a total limit over £10 million
Annual limit up to £1 million and a total limit up to £10 million
Annual limit up to £500,000 and a total limit of £2 million
Annual limit up to £150,000 and a total limit of £750,000
No limit
Board and Defra
Chief Executive in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Chief Officer in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Area Manager or Manager
Appropriate Manager in consultation with Legal Services, and see Part 4 (Signing Deeds) of NFSoD
Introduction
Spending controls
A Budgets
B Expenditure Justification
C Spending
D Grants
E Procurement
F Disposals (non land)
G Charging by Natural England
H Commercial Licences issued
I Bank Accounts
J Borrowing Powers/Loans
K Insurances
L Financial Irregularity
M Write offs
N Gifts
O Financial Systems
P Information Systems
Q Emergencies
R Overseas visits
S Land and NNRs
T Coastal Access
U Compensation claims etc.
V Corporate memberships
W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual Accounts
X Governance
Annex 1 Specified officers 11◄Previous
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Limit Authorised Officer
D.4.1 Countryside Stewardship and other RDPE schemes
Applications and amendments
Delegated Authority Levels for approving CS applications and amendments, and amendments to earlier Rural Development agreements subject to:
a) SoD guidance on Grants
b) Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE) Finance Instructions
For write off see Part M
Over £5m
Up to £5m
Up to £1m
Up to £500,000
Up to £250,000
Appropriate Director, or Area Manager in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Manager
Appropriate Team Leader
Appropriate Lead Adviser / Group Co-ordinator
Appropriate Adviser
D.4.2 Claims
Delegated Authority Levels for approving Countryside Stewardship and other RDPE schemes claims subject to:
a) SoD guidance on Grants
b) RDPE Finance Instructions
Over £1m
Up to £1m
Up to £500,000
Up to £250,000
Appropriate Director in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Manager
Appropriate Team Leader
Appropriate Adviser or Group Co-ordinator
Introduction
Spending controls
A Budgets
B Expenditure Justification
C Spending
D Grants
E Procurement
F Disposals (non land)
G Charging by Natural England
H Commercial Licences issued
I Bank Accounts
J Borrowing Powers/Loans
K Insurances
L Financial Irregularity
M Write offs
N Gifts
O Financial Systems
P Information Systems
Q Emergencies
R Overseas visits
S Land and NNRs
T Coastal Access
U Compensation claims etc.
V Corporate memberships
W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual Accounts
X Governance
Annex 1 Specified officers 12◄Previous
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Limit Authorised Officer
D.5 Approval to receive funds via a grant
Authority to:
a) Approve receipt of funds (e.g. from MoAs/ Partnership agreements/grants)
Note: this section does not cover receipt of statutory funding or E.U. rural payment scheme funding, disposal of assets or commercial activities on behalf of Natural England as these are covered elsewhere in this scheme and subject to:
b) Compliance with Financial Memorandum or any equivalent governance documentation
c) Consultation with Legal
This section covers both project and non-project funds
Over £3m
Up to £3m
Up to £500,000
Up to £100,000
Up to £25,000
Chief Executive in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Chief Officer in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Director or Area Manager in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Manager/PrincipalSpecialist/ Principal Adviser
Appropriate Senior Adviser
D.6 Farm Advice Framework Programme(RDPE Axis 1)
(For GIA funded programme see section E.2.3)
Approving financial commitments for contracts
Signing off claims
Over £250,000
Up to £250,000
Up to £100,000
Up to £25,000
-
Appropriate Director or Area Manager in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Senior Adviser andPrincipal Adviser
Appropriate Lead Adviser
Appropriate Adviser
Specified Officers (see annex 1)
Introduction
Spending controls
A Budgets
B Expenditure Justification
C Spending
D Grants
E Procurement
F Disposals (non land)
G Charging by Natural England
H Commercial Licences issued
I Bank Accounts
J Borrowing Powers/Loans
K Insurances
L Financial Irregularity
M Write offs
N Gifts
O Financial Systems
P Information Systems
Q Emergencies
R Overseas visits
S Land and NNRs
T Coastal Access
U Compensation claims etc.
V Corporate memberships
W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual Accounts
X Governance
Annex 1 Specified officers 13◄Previous
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Part E ProcurementN.B. This section is subject to spending review controls
Limit Authorised Officer
E.1 Framework Agreements*
All forms of contract, including award letters to suppliers and contractors used to put in place Framework Agreements
Non-standard contracts used to put in place FrameworkAgreements
a) any Framework Agreements being awarded on a competitive basis (otherwise single tender action - Part E.3). Unless awarded under the terms of an existing framework agreement established for the purpose
b) consultation with Natural England’s Chief Legal & Governance Officer on Non Standard Framework Conditions of Contracts that contain novel or contentious clauses or terms
c) individual call-offs being approved as per E.2
d) Cabinet Office Efficiency and Reform Group referral where necessary - See guidance for more information
Over £5m
Up to £5m
Up to £2m
Up to £500,000
Up to £100,000
Chief Executive in consultation with Defra group Commercial SCS
Contract owner in consultation with Defra group Commercial G6
Contract owner in consultation with Defra group Commercial G7
Contract owner in consultation with Defra group Commercial SEO
Contract owner in consultation with Defra group Commercial HEO
* Framework Agreements are a general term for agreements with suppliers that set out terms and conditions (in particular price, appropriate quality standards and actual conditions of contract) under which specific purchases (call-offs) can be made throughout the term of the agreement. Such agreements set out the terms and conditions for subsequent call -offs but place no obligations, in themselves, on the procurers to buy anything. With this approach, contracts are formed only when goods, works and services are called under the agreement and these call offs will need to be approved as detailed in E.2
Introduction
Spending controls
A Budgets
B Expenditure Justification
C Spending
D Grants
E Procurement
F Disposals (non land)
G Charging by Natural England
H Commercial Licences issued
I Bank Accounts
J Borrowing Powers/Loans
K Insurances
L Financial Irregularity
M Write offs
N Gifts
O Financial Systems
P Information Systems
Q Emergencies
R Overseas visits
S Land and NNRs
T Coastal Access
U Compensation claims etc.
V Corporate memberships
W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual Accounts
X Governance
Annex 1 Specified officers 14◄Previous
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Limit Authorised OfficerE2.1 Contractual Commitment
1. All standard forms of contract including award letters to suppliers and contractors
2. Official purchase orders
3. National contracts
4. Call-offs from Framework Contracts
5. Non-standard contracts
6. Memorandum of Agreement/Collaboration Agreements/ Partnership Agreements
And subject to:
a) Any contract being awarded on a competitive basis, otherwise single tender action - E.3. Unless awarded under the terms of an existing framework agreement established for the purpose.
b) Consultation with Grade 7 or above Defra group Commercial, on non- standard contracts that do not contain novel or contentious clauses or terms
c) Consultation with Natural England’s Head of Legal on non- standard contracts that contain novel or contentious clauses or terms.
d) Staff making contractual commitment ONLY through raising appropriate Oracle requisitions unless explicitly included as part of a framework agreement call-off process or with the approval and signature of any other contract documents by Defra group Commercial
e) Contracts let through existing frameworks should be let following the framework rules
f) Signatures on non-monetary agreements e.g. MOUs/SLAs subject to Non-Financial delegation controls.
Over £2m
Up to £2m
Up to £500,000
Up to £250,000
Up to £100,000
Up to £10,000
Up to £5,000
Chief Executive (Over £5m or £10m in total is classified as significant commitment and requires Defra approval) in consultation with Defra group Commercial G6
Chief Officer in consultation with Defra group Commercial G7
Appropriate Director or Area Manager4 in consultation with Defra group Commercial SEO
Budget holder in consultation with Defra group Commercial SEO
Budget holder in consultation with Defra group Commercial HEO
All Staff with three written quotes via a purchase order
All Staff with one quote via a purchase order
Introduction
Spending controls
A Budgets
B Expenditure Justification
C Spending
D Grants
E Procurement
F Disposals (non land)
G Charging by Natural England
H Commercial Licences issued
I Bank Accounts
J Borrowing Powers/Loans
K Insurances
L Financial Irregularity
M Write offs
N Gifts
O Financial Systems
P Information Systems
Q Emergencies
R Overseas visits
S Land and NNRs
T Coastal Access
U Compensation claims etc.
V Corporate memberships
W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual Accounts
X Governance
Annex 1 Specified officers 15◄Previous
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Limit Authorised OfficerE.2.2 Licence to use third party products or services
1. General licence agreements
2. Licences with third parties for the acquisition of data
Subject to:
a) Grade 7 Defra group Commercial, in consultation with Head of Legal on Non-standard Contracts that do not contain novel or contentious clauses or terms
b) Grade 7 Defra group Commercial in consultation with Natural England’s Director Legal on Non-standard Contracts that contain novel or contentious clauses or terms.
Up to £2m
Up to £500,000
Zero value
Over £100,000
Up to £100,000
Up to £50,000
Chief Executive in consultation with CEK
Chief Executive in consultation with CEK
Chief Executive in consultation with CEK in consultation with Legal if novel and contentious Chief Legal & Governance Officer in consultation with Chief Legal & Governance Officer & Defra group Commercial Grade 6 Defra group Commercial in consultation with Chief Legal & Governance Officer
Grade 7 Defra group Commercial in consultation with Chief Legal & Governance Officer
E.2.3 Farm Advice Framework Programme (RDPE Axis 1)
(For GIA funded programme see section E.2.1)
Approving contractual commitments for contracts called off theFarm Advice Framework
Over £500,000
Up to £500,000
Up to £250,000
Up to £100,000
Budget holder in consultation with Grade 6 Defra group Commercial
Budget holder in consultation with Grade 7 Defra group Commercial
Budget holder in consultation with SEO Defra group Commercial
Budget holder in consultation with HEO Defra group Commercial Natural England Specified Officers (see annex 1)
Introduction
Spending controls
A Budgets
B Expenditure Justification
C Spending
D Grants
E Procurement
F Disposals (non land)
G Charging by Natural England
H Commercial Licences issued
I Bank Accounts
J Borrowing Powers/Loans
K Insurances
L Financial Irregularity
M Write offs
N Gifts
O Financial Systems
P Information Systems
Q Emergencies
R Overseas visits
S Land and NNRs
T Coastal Access
U Compensation claims etc.
V Corporate memberships
W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual Accounts
X Governance
Annex 1 Specified officers 16◄Previous
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Limit Authorised OfficerE.3 Single Tender Actions
1. To authorise justified expenditure, on a single tender action basis, and subject to report to Defra for all contracts of £100,000
2. Single Tender Actions to engage ex-employees, including Board members, within 2 years of Leaving Natural England require consultation with Director of Organisation Development and Executive Director approval prior to commitment
3. Subject to Spending Control requirements (see Spending Control section after Introduction)
Note - once approved, the single tender action is subject to FSoD delegations in E.2 on Contractual Commitment
Over £111,000
Up to £111,000
Up to £50,000
From £5,000 to £10,000 (below £5,000 one quote is acceptable and no STA approval is needed)
Chief Executive in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Chief Officer in consultation with Grade 7 Defra group Commercial
Appropriate Director or Area Team Manager or Manager/Principal Adviser in Consultation with Grade 7 Defra group Commercial
Appropriate Director or Area Manager
E.4.1 Variations to Conditions of Contract for contracts already awarded
1. Variations to Terms and Conditions to Contracts already awarded where the variation does not contain novel or contentious clauses or terms
2. Variation to Terms and Conditions to Contracts already awarded that contain novel or contentious clauses or terms
Not applicable
Not applicable
Contract owner in consultation with Grade 6 Network Corporate Services
Grade 6 Network Corporate Services in consultation with Natural England Chief Legal & Governance Officer
Introduction
Spending controls
A Budgets
B Expenditure Justification
C Spending
D Grants
E Procurement
F Disposals (non land)
G Charging by Natural England
H Commercial Licences issued
I Bank Accounts
J Borrowing Powers/Loans
K Insurances
L Financial Irregularity
M Write offs
N Gifts
O Financial Systems
P Information Systems
Q Emergencies
R Overseas visits
S Land and NNRs
T Coastal Access
U Compensation claims etc.
V Corporate memberships
W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual Accounts
X Governance
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Limit Authorised OfficerE.4.2 Variations to Contract Commitment for contracts already
awarded
a) For variations of less than 10% (goods and services) or 15% (works) of the Total Contract Value
b) For variations of between 10% (good / services) or 15% (works) and 50% of the Total Contract Value
c) For variations above 50% of the Total Contract Value
Over £1m
Up to £1m
Up to 500K
Up to 100K
Up to 50K
Over £1m
Up to £1m
Up to 100K
All
Chief Legal & Governance Officer inConsultation with Grade 7 Defra group Commercial
Contract owner in consultation with Defra group Commercial Grade 7
Contract owner in consultation with Defra group Commercial Grade SEO
Contract owner in consultation with Defra group Commercial HEO
Contract owner in consultation with Defra group Commercial HEO
Chief Legal & Governance Officer inConsultation with Grade Defra group Commercial
Contract owner in consultation with Defra group Commercial Grade 7
Contract owner in consultation with Defra group Commercial Grade 7
Natural England Chief Legal & Governance Officer in Consultation with Head of Commercial (SCS), Defra group Commercial.
Introduction
Spending controls
A Budgets
B Expenditure Justification
C Spending
D Grants
E Procurement
F Disposals (non land)
G Charging by Natural England
H Commercial Licences issued
I Bank Accounts
J Borrowing Powers/Loans
K Insurances
L Financial Irregularity
M Write offs
N Gifts
O Financial Systems
P Information Systems
Q Emergencies
R Overseas visits
S Land and NNRs
T Coastal Access
U Compensation claims etc.
V Corporate memberships
W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual Accounts
X Governance
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Part F Disposals (non land)Limit Authorised Officer
F.1 Disposal of unwanted stores, plant, equipment, vehicles and other assets after informing (if required) other business units of the availability of unwanted articles and consulting with Defra Business Partner Finance and Defra group Commercial on method of disposal. Subject to approval by Defra for:
a) Any disposal with an expected value in excess of £1.0m
Limits are stated in net book value or market value if known to be higher
Over £1.0m
Up to £1m
Up to £250,000
Up to £10,000
Up to £5,000
Up to £2,500
Board and Defra
Chief Executive in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Director or Area Manager in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Managers or Senior Adviser Estate management NCS.
NNR Services Team (for NNR related disposals)
Team Manager
Introduction
Spending controls
A Budgets
B Expenditure Justification
C Spending
D Grants
E Procurement
F Disposals (non land)
G Charging by Natural England
H Commercial Licences issued
I Bank Accounts
J Borrowing Powers/Loans
K Insurances
L Financial Irregularity
M Write offs
N Gifts
O Financial Systems
P Information Systems
Q Emergencies
R Overseas visits
S Land and NNRs
T Coastal Access
U Compensation claims etc.
V Corporate memberships
W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual Accounts
X Governance
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Part G Charging by Natural England Limit Authorised Officer
G.1 Charging Policy for discretionary services
Discretionary services are those covered by the Secretary of State’s consent granted 29/6/2011- see Charging Policy
1. Approving revisions to Natural England’s Charging Policy (except revisions to exemption criteria or cost recovery rates)
2. Approving revisions to exemption criteria or cost recovery rates in Natural England’s Charging Policy
NA
NA
Board and Defra
Chief Executive in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
G.2 Charging Schemes for discretionary services
1. Approving introduction of charging schemes for discretionary services in significant risk/impact categories in accordance with Natural England’s charging policy.
Significant risk/impact categories are:
a. Case specific discretionary advice in areas where we also perform a statutory/regulatory role in determining case outcomes (e.g. pre-application planning advice, pre-screening licence applications)
b. Data licensing
c. New commercial activities projected to cost more than £1m pa to deliver
2. Approving introduction of charging schemes for discretionary services in accordance with Natural England’s charging policy (with the exception of significant risk/impact categories)
NA
NA
Board and Defra
Chief Executive in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Continued...
Introduction
Spending controls
A Budgets
B Expenditure Justification
C Spending
D Grants
E Procurement
F Disposals (non land)
G Charging by Natural England
H Commercial Licences issued
I Bank Accounts
J Borrowing Powers/Loans
K Insurances
L Financial Irregularity
M Write offs
N Gifts
O Financial Systems
P Information Systems
Q Emergencies
R Overseas visits
S Land and NNRs
T Coastal Access
U Compensation claims etc.
V Corporate memberships
W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual Accounts
X Governance
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Limit Authorised Officer
G.2 3. Approving exemption cases or variations from cost recovery rates, in accordance with Natural England’s charging policy
Charging Schemes for discretionary services
4. Approval to amend the terms & conditions for discretionary Services
NA
NA
Appropriate Director / Area Manager in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Director in consultation with Head of Legal Services
G.3 Charging Schemes for non-discretionary services
Approving introduction of charging schemes for non-discretionary services NA Board and Defra
G.4 Authorisation of commercial income agreements Up to £3m
Up to £500,000
Up to £100,000
Up to £25,000
Up to £2500
Appropriate Chief Officer in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Directors or Area Manager in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Team Managers/Principal Advisers
Appropriate TeamLeaders / Senior Advisers
Default all staff
Introduction
Spending controls
A Budgets
B Expenditure Justification
C Spending
D Grants
E Procurement
F Disposals (non land)
G Charging by Natural England
H Commercial Licences issued
I Bank Accounts
J Borrowing Powers/Loans
K Insurances
L Financial Irregularity
M Write offs
N Gifts
O Financial Systems
P Information Systems
Q Emergencies
R Overseas visits
S Land and NNRs
T Coastal Access
U Compensation claims etc.
V Corporate memberships
W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual Accounts
X Governance
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Part H Commercial Licences issued by Natural EnglandLimit Authorised Officer
H.1 Licences for the reuse of Natural England intellectual property
Commercial means: where there is a direct or indirect generation of income by a third party resulting from the use of the licensed Intellectual Property
Commercial organisations means : any party that is not a public sector body or a not for profit organisation
1. Granting licences for the reuse of Natural England data
a) standard OGC licence (non-royalty bearing)
b) non-standard non-royalty bearing licence
c) royalty bearing licence for reuse of data which falls within scope of Public Data Corporation (refer to CEK procurement lead, for guidance)
NA
NA
NA
Specified Officer (see annex 1) in consultation Chief Legal & Governance Officer and Grade 6 CEK procurement
Specified Officer (see annex 1) in consultation Chief Legal & Governance Officer and Grade 6 CEK procurement
Requires Board and Defra for charging scheme approval in accordance with Natural England Charging Policy (ref section G2.1.b)
Introduction
Spending controls
A Budgets
B Expenditure Justification
C Spending
D Grants
E Procurement
F Disposals (non land)
G Charging by Natural England
H Commercial Licences issued
I Bank Accounts
J Borrowing Powers/Loans
K Insurances
L Financial Irregularity
M Write offs
N Gifts
O Financial Systems
P Information Systems
Q Emergencies
R Overseas visits
S Land and NNRs
T Coastal Access
U Compensation claims etc.
V Corporate memberships
W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual Accounts
X Governance
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Limit Authorised Officer
H.1 2. Granting licences for the reuse of Natural England intellectual property (includes training material, publications, and images). Note for licences also including reuse of NE logo, brand or trademark see 3 below.
a) Royalty bearing standard Natural England IP Licences for use by Commercial Organisations, or for commercial use by any party
b) Royalty bearing non-standard licences for use by Commercial Organisations, or for commercial use by any party
c) Non-royalty bearing licences
Over £100,000
Up to £100,000
Up to £50,000
Over £75,000
Up to £75,000
Up to £30,000
NA
Chief legal & Governance Officer in consultation with Chief Legal & Governance Officer
Specified officer (see annex 1) in consultation Chief Legal & Governance Officer and Grade 6 CEL procurement
Specified Officer (see annex 1) in consultation Chief Legal & Governance Officer and Grade 7 CEK procurement
Defra Business Partner Finance in consultation with Chief Legal & Governance Officer and Grade 6 CEK procurement
Specified officer (see annex 1) in consultation with Chief Legal & Governance Officer and Grade 6 CEK procurement
Specified Officer (see annex 1) in consultation with Chief Legal & Governance Officer and Grade 7 CEK procurement
Defra Business Partner Finance in consultation with Chief Legal & Governance Officer
Introduction
Spending controls
A Budgets
B Expenditure Justification
C Spending
D Grants
E Procurement
F Disposals (non land)
G Charging by Natural England
H Commercial Licences issued
I Bank Accounts
J Borrowing Powers/Loans
K Insurances
L Financial Irregularity
M Write offs
N Gifts
O Financial Systems
P Information Systems
Q Emergencies
R Overseas visits
S Land and NNRs
T Coastal Access
U Compensation claims etc.
V Corporate memberships
W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual Accounts
X Governance
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Limit Authorised Officer
H.1 3. Approval of Intellectual Property licences that enable the use of a Natural England logo, brand or trademark:
a) Royalty-bearing licences
b) Non royalty bearing licences for use by Commercial Organisations, or for commercial use by any party.
c) Non royalty bearing licences for non-commercial use by public sector bodies or not for profit organisations
4. Disputes
Approval of the handling, and the terms , of any settlement arising from a) the infringement, or alleged infringement of Natural England’s intellectual property rights , or b) the infringement, or alleged infringement, of a third party’s intellectual property rights by Natural England
Over £75,000
Up to £75,000
Up to £30,000
NA
Director Innovation and Reform in consultation with Chief Legal & Governance Officer
Manager in consultation with Chief Legal & Governance Officer and Grade 6 CEK procurement
Senior Adviser Executive office in consultation with Chief Legal & Governance Officer
Chief Legal & Governance Officer in consultation with Chief Legal Governance Officer and Grade 6 CEK procurement
H.2 Approval of sales contracts for services (eg advice, analysis)
Approval of sales contracts subject to:
a) Approval of sales contracts with standard Terms & Conditions.
Over £150,000
Up to £150,000
Up to £25,000
Appropriate Chief Officer
Appropriate Director or Area Manager
Appropriate Team Manager/Principal Adviser
Limit
Approval of non-standard Terms & Conditions (note financial approval limits above also apply)
NA Chief Legal & Governance Officer in consultation with appropriate Manager
Introduction
Spending controls
A Budgets
B Expenditure Justification
C Spending
D Grants
E Procurement
F Disposals (non land)
G Charging by Natural England
H Commercial Licences issued
I Bank Accounts
J Borrowing Powers/Loans
K Insurances
L Financial Irregularity
M Write offs
N Gifts
O Financial Systems
P Information Systems
Q Emergencies
R Overseas visits
S Land and NNRs
T Coastal Access
U Compensation claims etc.
V Corporate memberships
W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual Accounts
X Governance
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Part I Bank AccountsLimit Authorised Officer
I Opening and closing bank accounts NA Chief Legal & Governance Officer in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Part J Borrowing Powers/LoansLimit Authorised Officer
J.1 Exercising Natural England’s borrowing powers , subject to the prior approval of Defra and rules in Managing Public Money
NA Board and Defra
J.2 Introduction of Natural England loan scheme, subject to prior approval of Defra
NA Board and Defra
Part K InsurancesLimit Authorised Officer
K.1 Arranging insurances , subject to the prior authorisation of Defra All Chief Legal & Governance Officer
K.2 Authorising settlements on claims against Natural England’s motor insurance arrangements
All Chief Legal & Governance Officer in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
K.3 Settling self-insured liability claims see section V1
Introduction
Spending controls
A Budgets
B Expenditure Justification
C Spending
D Grants
E Procurement
F Disposals (non land)
G Charging by Natural England
H Commercial Licences issued
I Bank Accounts
J Borrowing Powers/Loans
K Insurances
L Financial Irregularity
M Write offs
N Gifts
O Financial Systems
P Information Systems
Q Emergencies
R Overseas visits
S Land and NNRs
T Coastal Access
U Compensation claims etc.
V Corporate memberships
W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual Accounts
X Governance
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Part L Financial IrregularityLimit Authorised Officer
L.1 Instigation of investigations into cases of financial irregularity, proven or suspected, and report to the Audit & Risk Assurance Committee
NA Chief Legal & Governance Officer in consultation with Defra Business Partner finance and internal audit
L.2 Annual report of cases of financial irregularity, proven or suspected, to Defra
All cases Chief legal & Governance Officer in consultation with Defra Business Partner finance and internal audit
Part M Write offsLimit Authorised Officer
M.1 Individual write-offs of debts, stock, and other assets (including equipment, plant and motor vehicles) subject to obtaining the prior approval of Defra above £100k
Over £100,000
Up to £100,000
Up to £50,000
Up to £20,000
Board & Defra
Chief Executive in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Chief Legal & Governance Officer in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Specified Officers (see annex 1)
Any write-off that could be considered potentially “novel or contentious” or repercussive must go to Chief legal and governance officer in consultation with Chief Legal & Governance Officer.
Natural England staff do not have the authority to authorise write-offs of England Rural Development Program/England Rural Development Program (ERDP/RDPE) funds. Write-off requests raised by Natural England should be recommended at least Team Leader level and forwarded to the RPAís Rural Development Scheme Management Unit for assessment and authorisation by RPA, as set out in the Finance Instructions.
Introduction
Spending controls
A Budgets
B Expenditure Justification
C Spending
D Grants
E Procurement
F Disposals (non land)
G Charging by Natural England
H Commercial Licences issued
I Bank Accounts
J Borrowing Powers/Loans
K Insurances
L Financial Irregularity
M Write offs
N Gifts
O Financial Systems
P Information Systems
Q Emergencies
R Overseas visits
S Land and NNRs
T Coastal Access
U Compensation claims etc.
V Corporate memberships
W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual Accounts
X Governance
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Part N GiftsLimit Authorised Officer
N.1 Individual gifts subject to obtaining the prior authorisation of Defra for gifts exceeding £10,000
Gifts are transactions of a type which are subject to a greater degree of control since the giving of gifts by a public body at taxpayers’ expense is a very sensitive issue - see Regularity & Propriety guidance for further clarification.
Over £10,000
Over £500
Over £250
Up to £250
Natural England Board and Defra
Chief Executive in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Chief Legal & Governance Officer in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Director or Area Team Managers in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Part O Financial SystemsLimit Authorised Officer
O Specification of financial systems NA Chief Executive in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Introduction
Spending controls
A Budgets
B Expenditure Justification
C Spending
D Grants
E Procurement
F Disposals (non land)
G Charging by Natural England
H Commercial Licences issued
I Bank Accounts
J Borrowing Powers/Loans
K Insurances
L Financial Irregularity
M Write offs
N Gifts
O Financial Systems
P Information Systems
Q Emergencies
R Overseas visits
S Land and NNRs
T Coastal Access
U Compensation claims etc.
V Corporate memberships
W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual Accounts
X Governance
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Part P Information SystemsN.B. This section is subject to spending review controls
Limit Authorised Officer
P.1 To authorise IS projects, which are classified as, but not restricted to:
a) Acquisition of hardware
b) Acquisition of proprietary package software c) Development of new software
Subject to:
d) Defra approval for projects estimated to cost £5m or over
e) budget approval
Over £5m
Up to £5m
Up to £3m
Up to £2m
Board and Defra in consultation with CEK
Chief Executive in consultation with CEK
Appropriate Chief Officer in consultation with CEK
Appropriate Director in consultation with CEK
P.2 Approve justified IS expenditure from budgeted funds
Subject to:
a) Any contract being awarded on a competitive basis, or with prior single tender action approval
b) Subject to Cabinet Office Efficiency & Reform Group ICT and other relevant restrictions
Over £2m
Over £500,000
Up to £500,000
Under £100,000
Chief Executive in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Chief Officer in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Director in consultation with CEK
Appropriate Director in consultation with CEK
Introduction
Spending controls
A Budgets
B Expenditure Justification
C Spending
D Grants
E Procurement
F Disposals (non land)
G Charging by Natural England
H Commercial Licences issued
I Bank Accounts
J Borrowing Powers/Loans
K Insurances
L Financial Irregularity
M Write offs
N Gifts
O Financial Systems
P Information Systems
Q Emergencies
R Overseas visits
S Land and NNRs
T Coastal Access
U Compensation claims etc.
V Corporate memberships
W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual Accounts
X Governance
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Part Q EmergenciesLimit Authorised Officer
Q.1 Authorisation to activate Part Q of FSoD in response to an external emergency
Authorisation to activate Part Q of FSoD in response to an internal emergency
NA
NA
Chief Executive in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Chief Officer in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Q.2 Approval to spend and make contractual Commitment on expenditure to deal with emergencies
Subject to:
a) Retrospective authorisation of emergency expenditure incurred on a single tender action basis as per limits specified in section E.3
As necessary Appropriate Chief Officers/Directors or Area Team Managers
Part R Overseas visitsLimit Authorised Officer
R Approving visits overseas for officers engaged on activities forNatural England
Overseas visits by Chief Executive
Overseas visits by Executive Directors
Overseas visits by Directors/Area Managers
Overseas visits by other staff
Chairman
Chief Executive in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Chief Officer in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Director or Area Managers in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Introduction
Spending controls
A Budgets
B Expenditure Justification
C Spending
D Grants
E Procurement
F Disposals (non land)
G Charging by Natural England
H Commercial Licences issued
I Bank Accounts
J Borrowing Powers/Loans
K Insurances
L Financial Irregularity
M Write offs
N Gifts
O Financial Systems
P Information Systems
Q Emergencies
R Overseas visits
S Land and NNRs
T Coastal Access
U Compensation claims etc.
V Corporate memberships
W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual Accounts
X Governance
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Part S Land and NNRsNote: Land work requires the use of the services of Defra Estates Division, where appropriate, and acting in accordance with the advice of suitably qualified private sector valuers from a list of Defra/OGC Framework contractors, or the District Valuer in connection with transactions involving the sale, purchase, leasing or renting of land or property or associated rights
Limit Authorised Officer
S.1 Authorise and approve terms for the disposal of Natural England owned land and associated buildings, or an interest therein and subject to:
a) The prior approval of Defra for any disposal exceeding £1m
b) For any heritage asset (not valued on Natural England’s balance sheet) Natural England must:-
i. obtain professional advice as to the Open value of the asset
ii. document the justification for the method of disposal chosen or accepting less than market value
iii. Seek approval of Defra where any discount exceeds £350,000 for sales or £75,000 annually for leases
Market value in excess of £1m or Heritage asset where discount exceeds £350,000 for sales or £75,000 annually for leases
Market value in up to £1m or Heritage asset where discount up to £350,000 for sales or £75,000 annually for leases
Market value up to £500,000
Market value of a heritage asset up to£500,000 and with no discount
Natural England Board and Defra
Chief Executive
Appropriate Director in consultation with Senior Land Agent, NNR National Team
Senior Land Agent, NNR National Team
Introduction
Spending controls
A Budgets
B Expenditure Justification
C Spending
D Grants
E Procurement
F Disposals (non land)
G Charging by Natural England
H Commercial Licences issued
I Bank Accounts
J Borrowing Powers/Loans
K Insurances
L Financial Irregularity
M Write offs
N Gifts
O Financial Systems
P Information Systems
Q Emergencies
R Overseas visits
S Land and NNRs
T Coastal Access
U Compensation claims etc.
V Corporate memberships
W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual Accounts
X Governance
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Limit Authorised Officer
S.2 Acquiring land through purchase or lease of land or an interest therein
Subject to:
a) Approval from Defra’s Estates Division for minor works and building projects (other than the NNR estate) over £500,000
b) Section B approval
With NE’s contribution to the transaction value up to £5m for purchases or £500,000 annually for leases/interests
With NE’s contribution to the transaction value up to £1m for purchases or £200,000 annually for leases / interests
With NE’s contribution to the transaction of up to £250,000 annually
Lease of land or an interest therein of up to £100,000
Lease of land or an interest therein of up to £25,000 annually
Chief Executive in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Director Operations in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Area Manager in consultation with Senior Land Agent
Appropriate Manager in Area Team in consultation with Senior Land Agent
Appropriate Team Leader in Area Team in consultation with Senior Land Agent
S.3 Operating Leases
a) Granting, terminating and varying leases or interests to third parties for Natural England owned land, buildings and structures.
b) Terminating and varying leases or interests, including sub-letting, of land, buildings and structures owned by third parties.
With a transaction value over £25,000 annually for leases/interests
With a transaction up to £25,000 annually for leases/interests
over £25,000 annually
Up to £25,000 annually
Appropriate Area Manager in consultation with Senior Land Agent, NNR National Team
Appropriate Manager in Area Team in consultation with Senior Land Agent, NNR National Team
Area Manager in consultation with Senior Land Agent
Appropriate Manager in Area Team in consultation with Senior Land Agent
Introduction
Spending controls
A Budgets
B Expenditure Justification
C Spending
D Grants
E Procurement
F Disposals (non land)
G Charging by Natural England
H Commercial Licences issued
I Bank Accounts
J Borrowing Powers/Loans
K Insurances
L Financial Irregularity
M Write offs
N Gifts
O Financial Systems
P Information Systems
Q Emergencies
R Overseas visits
S Land and NNRs
T Coastal Access
U Compensation claims etc.
V Corporate memberships
W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual Accounts
X Governance
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Limit Authorised Officer
S.4 Rent or payment reviews
Rent or payment reviews in accordance with the provisions of a lease, interest or right granted to or by Natural England
Over £25,000 annually
Up to £25,000 annually or more than 10 years remaining
Up to £10,000 annually with up to 10 years remaining
Appropriate Area Manager in consultation with Senior Land Agent, NNR National Team
Senior Land Agent, NNR National Team
Land Agent NNR National Team
S.5 Rights
Granting, taking, and varying rights associated with land and property including e.g. grazing licences, licences to occupy etc.
Up to £25,000 annually, or for over 10 years
Up to £10,000 annually and for up to 10 years
Senior Land Agent NNR National Team
Land Agent, NNR National Teams
* Subject to:a) The prior approval of Defra for any disposal exceeding £1mb) For any heritage asset (not valued on Natural England’s balance sheet) Natural England must:-i. Obtain professional advice as to the Open value of the assetii. Document the justification for the method of disposal chosen or accepting less than market valueiii. Seek approval of Defra where any discount exceeds £350,000 for sales or £75,000 annually
Introduction
Spending controls
A Budgets
B Expenditure Justification
C Spending
D Grants
E Procurement
F Disposals (non land)
G Charging by Natural England
H Commercial Licences issued
I Bank Accounts
J Borrowing Powers/Loans
K Insurances
L Financial Irregularity
M Write offs
N Gifts
O Financial Systems
P Information Systems
Q Emergencies
R Overseas visits
S Land and NNRs
T Coastal Access
U Compensation claims etc.
V Corporate memberships
W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual Accounts
X Governance
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Part T Coastal Access Limit Authorised Officer
T.1 Approval to spend - each proposal in accordance with s.55A National Parks and Countryside Act 1949 (as inserted by the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009)
Over £500,000
Up to £500,000
Up to £100,000
Appropriate Chief Officer in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Director or Area Manager in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Principal Adviser
T.2 Approval to spend - costs in preparation for each s.55A proposal Up to £500,000
Up to £100,000
Appropriate Director in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Principal Adviser
Introduction
Spending controls
A Budgets
B Expenditure Justification
C Spending
D Grants
E Procurement
F Disposals (non land)
G Charging by Natural England
H Commercial Licences issued
I Bank Accounts
J Borrowing Powers/Loans
K Insurances
L Financial Irregularity
M Write offs
N Gifts
O Financial Systems
P Information Systems
Q Emergencies
R Overseas visits
S Land and NNRs
T Coastal Access
U Compensation claims etc.
V Corporate memberships
W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual Accounts
X Governance
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Part U Compensation claims, Special payments etcLimit Authorised Officer
U.1 Property related claims, personal injury claims and any other compensation claims (except compensation claims being made in accordance with s28M of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended)) Accidental damage to property caused by bat volunteer damage
Up to £5000
where the claim is less than £500
Chief Legal & Governance Officer in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Volunteer specialist in consultation with Chief Legal & Governance Officer and Defra Business Partner Finance
U.2 Compensation payments under s28M of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended)
All cases of compensation are controversial:
Over £250,000
Up to £250,000
In all cases where there is a dispute over the amount or nature of the compensation payment
Chief Executive in consultation Chief Legal & Governance Officer and Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Chief Officer in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance Chief Officer Legal & Governance
Chief Executive in consultation Chief Legal & Governance Officer and Head of Legal Services and Defra Business Partner Finance
Introduction
Spending controls
A Budgets
B Expenditure Justification
C Spending
D Grants
E Procurement
F Disposals (non land)
G Charging by Natural England
H Commercial Licences issued
I Bank Accounts
J Borrowing Powers/Loans
K Insurances
L Financial Irregularity
M Write offs
N Gifts
O Financial Systems
P Information Systems
Q Emergencies
R Overseas visits
S Land and NNRs
T Coastal Access
U Compensation claims etc.
V Corporate memberships
W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual Accounts
X Governance
Annex 1 Specified officers 34◄Previous
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Limit Authorised Officer
U.3 Consolatory Payments Defined as ex gratia payments made to individuals by organisations in respect of incidents which do not involve financial loss, e.g. stress, inconvenience, embarrassment etc.” Consolatory payments above £500 must go to.
All cases of compensation are controversial:
Over £500,000 H M Treasury for approval with a couple of exceptions
U.4 Special Severance Payments: Any payment in addition to or in excess of contractual terms that is designed to terminate employment, “always requires HMT approval”.
H M Treasury for approval
Introduction
Spending controls
A Budgets
B Expenditure Justification
C Spending
D Grants
E Procurement
F Disposals (non land)
G Charging by Natural England
H Commercial Licences issued
I Bank Accounts
J Borrowing Powers/Loans
K Insurances
L Financial Irregularity
M Write offs
N Gifts
O Financial Systems
P Information Systems
Q Emergencies
R Overseas visits
S Land and NNRs
T Coastal Access
U Compensation claims etc.
V Corporate memberships
W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual Accounts
X Governance
Annex 1 Specified officers 35◄Previous
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Part V Corporate membership of other bodies Limit Authorised Officer
V Approving applications for Natural England’s corporate membership of other bodies
Renewing of approved corporate memberships of other bodies
Over £1,500
Up to £1,500
All cases
Chief Executive in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Director in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Appropriate Director or Area Manager in consultation with Defra Business Partner Finance
Part W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual AccountsSubmission Authorised Officer
Delivery Framework
Corporate Plan
Annual Report and Accounts
Board
Board and Minister
Board and Minister
Part X GovernanceLimit Authorised Officer
Endorsement of any expenditure that requires Defra approval Board
Introduction
Spending controls
A Budgets
B Expenditure Justification
C Spending
D Grants
E Procurement
F Disposals (non land)
G Charging by Natural England
H Commercial Licences issued
I Bank Accounts
J Borrowing Powers/Loans
K Insurances
L Financial Irregularity
M Write offs
N Gifts
O Financial Systems
P Information Systems
Q Emergencies
R Overseas visits
S Land and NNRs
T Coastal Access
U Compensation claims etc.
V Corporate memberships
W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual Accounts
X Governance
Annex 1 Specified officers 36◄Previous
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Annex 1 Specified officersDelegation Name Role
1) Granting licences for the use of Natural England data
a) Non-royalty bearing standard Natural England IP licences
(NE Terms of Use; Open Data licences; contractor licences; co-deliverer licences)
Andrew Lee Senior Adviser, Data Services Team
Hannah Ross Lead Adviser, Data Services Team
Claire Edwards Team Manager Access to Evidence team
b) Royalty bearing standard Natural England IP licences
(royalty bearing contractor licences /co-deliverer licences)
Claire Edwards Team Manager Access to Evidence team
Tim Hill Chief Scientist
David Askew Director of Evidence
2) Granting licences for the use of external data providers data
a) Non-royalty bearing standard or non-standard IP licences
Andrew Lee Senior Adviser, Data Services Team
Hannah Ross Lead Adviser, Data Services Team
Claire Edwards Team Manager Access to Evidence team
b) Royalty bearing standard or non-standard IP licences
Claire Edwards Team Manager Access to Evidence team
Tim Hill Chief Scientist
David Askew Director of Evidence
Introduction
Spending controls
A Budgets
B Expenditure Justification
C Spending
D Grants
E Procurement
F Disposals (non land)
G Charging by Natural England
H Commercial Licences issued
I Bank Accounts
J Borrowing Powers/Loans
K Insurances
L Financial Irregularity
M Write offs
N Gifts
O Financial Systems
P Information Systems
Q Emergencies
R Overseas visits
S Land and NNRs
T Coastal Access
U Compensation claims etc.
V Corporate memberships
W Approval of Corporate planning documents and Annual Accounts
X Governance
Annex 1 Specified officers 37◄Previous
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Farm Advice Framework Name of Staff Member
SP number(e.g. M123456)
Grade (Area Manager/Team Leader/Lead Advisor/Advisor)
Agreement Set up and Amendment
Approval (£)
Claim Payment
(£)
Michael Woodhouse m290963 Manager n/a £250,000
Carolyn Lloyd m122828 Team Leader £10,000 £100,000
David Stirling m135506 Senior Adviser £10,000 £100,000
Wendy Jones m152790 Senior Adviser £10,000 £100,000
Elaine Rozells m305920 Lead Adviser n/a £25,000
Katherine Ryder m305085 Lead Adviser £10,000 £25,000
Satpal Kang m184995 Lead Adviser n/a £25,000
Robert Caschetto m305919 Lead Adviser (TP to end March 2017) n/a £25,000
Rebekah Naylor m281287 Lead Adviser (TP to end March 2017) n/a £25,000
Judith Milne m305674 Adviser n/a £10,000
Annmarie Williams m306297 Adviser (TP to end March 2017) n/a £10,000
Natural England is here to secure a healthy natural environment for people to enjoy, where wildlife is protected and England’s traditional landscapes are safeguarded for future generations.
ISBN: 978-78367-299-8 Catalogue Code: NE703
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