The Minister did not provide a response in the given transcript. The debate ended with interventions from other MPs without a concluding statement or detailed ministerial reply. Acknowledges the importance of public procurement as a vehicle for social and economic change. Emphasises that the Government sees public procurement as an opportunity to boost British jobs, growth, and fairness across the country. Announces measures allowing local authorities to reserve contracts for suppliers in their area, potentially keeping over £1 billion of spend in local communities. The Minister discusses ongoing consultations on proposals to broaden definitions and improve support for SMEs and critical UK industries. Plans include introducing a public interest test for insourcing, reforming social value requirements, and reducing bureaucracy for SMEs. The Government aims to ensure every pound of the £400 billion procurement budget supports British jobs and industries. Social value model introduced in 2019 is not mandatory but allows consideration beyond price for quality jobs and training opportunities. The Minister acknowledged the issues raised regarding the clarity of community voice in public procurement. They noted that while it is early to assess the impact of recent measures, they are committed to bringing forward improvements through legislation. The Government aims to prevent social value becoming a tick-box exercise by ensuring large companies do not simply win contracts by filling out forms better. The Minister also mentioned plans to review thresholds for social value requirements to benefit SMEs and community groups more effectively. They stated that the current model allows some flexibility, but they are open to doing more in this regard. Regarding targeted recruitment and training, the Minister agreed it is a tool to provide local communities with necessary skills and will consider the points raised. The requirement exists for all Government suppliers to advertise jobs related to Government contracts on the DWP ‘Find a job’ website as of February 2025, but the Minister committed to looking at how this process is playing out and if improvements can be made. The Minister also confirmed discussions with the Northern Ireland Executive about applying new procurement legislation there. Overall, the Minister emphasised that procurement reform will deliver simpler processes, better value for taxpayers, and more opportunities for local jobs and skills across all parts of the UK.