Context
SMEs are crucial to Bristol South's economy and job creation, but there may be gaps in current support mechanisms.
Question
What steps the Government are taking to support small and medium-sized enterprises bidding for public contracts. I am pleased to hear about the Procurement Bill because small and medium-sized businesses are fundamental to the economy of Bristol South and for jobs. What steps will the Minister be taking to address gaps in the Procurement Bill to enforce payment deadlines and to make sure that filters down through the supply chain to help small businesses in my constituency?
Answer from Alex Burghart
This Government are supporting small and medium-sized enterprises by transparently publishing contract pipelines, simplifying bidding procedures. The Procurement Bill creates a simpler and more transparent procurement regime that will further open up public procurement to SMEs. The Bill includes a new duty on contracting authorities to have regard to the particular barriers facing SMEs. We want transparency, simplicity and fairness. On that third point, we are keen to see people pay their bills promptly so that SMEs throughout the supply chain can get their money when they need it.
Not addressed: The specific measures to enforce payment deadlines were not detailed beyond a general commitment to fairness and prompt payments.
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