Stephen Lepitak

It's in the issue from two weeks ago Ian. Page 20...

Or you could try here...

http://www.thedrum.com/indepth/1952-political-advertising

To the previous comment I think it should be noted that they are not actually allowed to do anything other than work through the current system that is in place. The Government is legally bound to not even speak about this tender ahead of the process' conclusion. So to point the finger at those working in procurement is harsh. They are only doing what they are allowed to by law. As I said previously, the system doesn't fit when it comes to creativity, but it's a system being used in the Public system across Europe. Yes, it's been introduced largely for cost reasons and that won't serve the creative industry well either. But that's up to the companies who choose to tender whether they think it's worth going for. Everyone now has an idea if what to expect and some very good companies will not get involved any more, choosing to concentrate on private sector work. No easy thing either!

The public service will always be judged on value for money over anything else. That doesn't mean that it will appoint bad agencies as a result, but it does mean that 'the best creativity' is not an option when explaining their decisions on spending public money. I'm sure the general public doesn't care which agencies are appointed. It is sad though that the procurement system really doesn't work when it comes to creative appointments though, but I can't see that ever changing and Im sure you'll all agree with that. Must be frustrating though I can imagine. well done to the guys who got there though! Hope it secures things in the current climate for them! I'll let you know the full list when I can.

The 23 will be split between the six lots. That I'm sure.

Chief apparently handled both the creative and the production of the TV advert.