Public Procurement Reform 2025-01-23
2025-01-23
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP is pleased with the upcoming national procurement policy statement and highlights opportunities for economic growth in Cornwall through public procurement.
I am so pleased to hear about the national procurement policy statement next month. As well as encouraging buying British, there are huge opportunities to use procurement to encourage growth and local supply chains, such as in floating offshore wind in Cornwall, as well as in other industries. Will the Minister confirm that there will be a bold procurement policy that will ensure economic growth in every corner of our country, even as far down as Cornwall?
Yesterday, I had a conversation with my hon. Friend who explained the importance of small and medium-sized enterprises for growth in Truro and Falmouth. Many small businesses have expressed that it can be too complex and slow to bid for Government contracts, sometimes coming out too late or preventing them from getting on the playing field. We have listened carefully to these concerns, and we will bring forward an NPPS that delivers for SMEs.
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Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not confirm a bold procurement policy specifically for economic growth in Cornwall, but addressed general issues faced by SMEs.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The Treasury Committee has raised concerns about the Office for Value for Money, citing issues around its remit, cost, cross-Government duplication.
Unbelievably, the Treasury Committee has already raised concerns about the Office for Value for Money, citing issues around its remit, cost, cross-Government duplication and more. Does the Minister agree with the financial markets which do not believe this Government’s commitment to reforming public procurement or prudent financial management, costing taxpayers an extra £10 billion a year?
Yesterday, the National Audit Office published a report on the nearly £50 billion gap in building maintenance left by the previous Labour government. The legacy of 15 years of lost wage growth and stalled productivity means we inherited crumbling buildings. In contrast, this Government has invested over £63 billion at the UK investment summit and is leading the way on artificial intelligence. Growth predictions for our economy have been upgraded to the fastest in Europe by the International Monetary Fund.
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Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not address concerns about the Office for Value for Money or financial markets' views, instead highlighting government achievements and criticizing the previous administration.
Response accuracy