The Foreign and Commonwealth Office is to bring together two databases to create a single online public platform containing information on the 14,000 international treaties to which the UK is a signatory.
The department currently runs separate systems for citizens and staff. The two, which are operated by different suppliers, contain essentially the same information, but the latter also features a facility for FCO employees to make notes.
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The Foreign Office intends to bring the platforms together into a single location, where core information is available publicly and civil servants can log in to access further details and functions.
“In upgrading our database, we are looking to improve our treaty information, enquiry and depositary service for FCO staff members, HM Government more broadly, and members of the public,” the department said. “The site should be available to FCO staff by 1October 2019, and go live to the public by 1 January 2020.”
The FCO has a budget of up to £45,000 to spend on the project, and is seeking to appoint an external provider to a two-year contract to deliver the programme of work. Bids are open until 12 July, with a supplier due to be appointed by 17 August.