The Framework agreement is a government (Home Office) exercise that streamlines procurement of services for the (in this instance) police air support units. Amongst other things it covers maintenance, purchase of aircraft and pilotage.
They invite tenders to supply all of this, from outside agencies. The tenders are competitive thus making the process of procurement - attractive and efficient to the end user.
The Framework is not compulsory, but should a client operate outwith the agreement, they may not get financial support from the H.O. and would most probably find that their experiences are a lot more expensive and exposed.
The new FA comes out next month and is valid for 3 years.
With regard to pilotage - this time round the service providers have taken the opportunity to attempt to realise actual profit. They have hiked the costs substantially and well above inflation (up to 40% in some circumstances).
The cost for a contract pilot is now well above that of a directly employed pilot, which for some forces may be enough to revisit the situation and reconsider employing their own.
Reasons for price rises: Suitably qualified pilot shortages as the mil pool dries up, and previously low contract pilot salaries.
Will the police swallow this whole, or will they question it?