(a) Upon approval of the plant clearance officer, the contractor may issue informal invitations to bid (orally, telephonically, or by other informal media), provided-
(1) Maximum practical competition is maintained;
(2) Sources solicited are recorded; and
(3) Informal bids are confirmed in writing.
(b) Bids by the contractor or its employees shall be submitted to the plant clearance officer prior to soliciting bids from other prospective bidders.
