Which FAR part requires acting fairly and without preferential treatment?

The correct answer is associated with the requirement for government contracting to be conducted in a manner that is fair and equitable to all parties involved. FAR Part 3 specifically addresses improper business practices, including the importance of ensuring that no contractor is given an unfair advantage over others. This part reinforces the principle of fair competition and the necessity for a level playing field in the procurement process, which is fundamental to the integrity of government contracting.

FAR Part 4 generally focuses on administrative matters, such as contract management and recordkeeping, while FAR Part 15 deals with contract negotiation and source selection, focusing more on the technical and price evaluation rather than on preferential treatment. Similarly, FAR Part 5 concerns itself with publicizing contract actions and does not specifically address the fair treatment of contractors. Thus, the emphasis on fair treatment and the avoidance of preferential treatment in the context of contracting processes is clearly aligned with the provisions outlined in FAR Part 3.