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A Procurement Bill , which will simplify four sets of laws into one , has had its Second Reading in the House of Commons . The simpler , more flexible and less complicated rules will open up more government procurement for small businesses and voluntary and community groups .

HE PROCUREMENT BILL will

The bill introduces new rules to help the government procure in emergency situations , such as during health pandemics , ensuring that contracting authorities can act quickly and transparently to buy vital goods .

The government says that these simpler rules take advantage of freedoms now that Britain has left the EU , as well as strengthening the government ’ s ability to exclude suppliers who may have previously underperformed on government work . The rules will help exclude suppliers , both in the UK and overseas who are involved in modern slavery – further clamping down on this abhorrent practice .

The bill also confirms that value for money remains paramount during contracting , whilst also encouraging buyers to take into account other relevant wider social and environmental considerations the supplier may bring .

Minister for the Cabinet Office , Jeremy Quin , said : “ We are making public sector procurement simpler , more transparent and easier to navigate .

“ This bill will seize the opportunity presented by Brexit to rip up outdated rules , increase opportunities for smaller companies and deliver better value for public money .

“ We are determined to deliver the best possible results from the £ 300 billion the public sector spends each year on procurement .

“ That ’ s why by ending the complicated web of rules and regulations inherited from the EU to even bid for public sector work , we will ensure smaller companies are better able to bring their drive , ingenuity and innovation to government .”

SMEs

The new , more flexible rules will benefit SMEs in particular , through a number of provisions being written into the bill to lift barriers for small businesses . These include :

• Greater visibility of upcoming work , giving SMEs more time to gear up for bidding

WE KNOW THAT COMPLEX RULES HAVE LONG BEEN ONE OF THE MAJOR CHALLENGES FOR SMES TRYING TO WIN GOVERNMENT WORK .