Context
Reports indicate that contracts worth over £830 million have been awarded for PPE without delivery, and there are concerns about transparency and due diligence in these procurements. A specific concern is a £108 million contract to PestFix with limited assets and an £830,000 payment to Public First without tender process.
Question
Labour understands the need for speed in procuring goods and services during a national emergency but argues that this does not justify reducing transparency or due diligence. The question asks about contracts worth over £830 million for PPE which have not materialised, a contract with PestFix despite its low asset base, and an £830,000 payment to Public First owned by friends of the Prime Minister's adviser seemingly related to Brexit rather than coronavirus response.
Answer from Penny Mordaunt (Minister for the Cabinet Office)
Procurement in emergency situations is allowed but does not mean scrutiny or value-for-money principles are abandoned. The Minister expresses shock at allegations concerning Public First and emphasizes that everyone knows people working there, including former Deputy Speakers of this House. She urges Helen Hayes to follow clear processes if she has serious concerns beyond insinuations.
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