Public sector procurement stands as a critical function that directly impacts the efficiency, effectiveness, and integrity of government services. The process of procurement involves the acquisition of goods, services, and works, making it a pivotal aspect of public administration. However, the complexity surrounding public sector procurement practices has often raised concerns about accountability, fairness, and ethical standards.
Transparency in public procurement refers to the openness and accessibility of information related to the procurement process, including supplier selection criteria, bid evaluation methods, contract terms, and performance outcomes. By promoting greater transparency in public procurement, contracting organisations can foster trust, increase competition, mitigate corruption risks, and improve the overall efficiency of public spendingÂ
Changes to public procurement is expected to be introduced from October 2024 and will be a major reform of public procurement practices. This new reform is expected to improve the way procurement is undertaken and bring a range of benefits including:
- creating more flexible, and effective procurement processes
- opening public contract opportunities to new entrants such as small businesses
- greater level of transparency throughout the commercial lifecycle, from initial award to the
performance of contractors delivering public services
Whether you are an existing supplier or interested in supplying goods or services to organisations in the public sector, you need to ensure you are aware of these changes. Details of these changes can be found on GOV.UK
Despite the benefits of greater transparency, implementing transparency measures at times creates some challenges. Issues such as data security, privacy concerns, and resistance to change may hinder efforts to enhance transparency. However, these challenges can be overcome through clear policies, robust data protection measures, stakeholder engagement, and capacity-building initiatives.
Striving to deliver greater transparency and ensure public sector contracts are more accessible has been a major ambition of the UK Government since 2010. Through the introduction of Local Government Transparency Code, great progress has been made by requiring Local Authorities and central government organisations to publish procurement and contracts data including, spend through credit cards, supplier spend above certain threshold and more recently details of planned contact opportunities. As we move towards a more accountable and efficient public sector, transparency in procurement will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of governance and public service delivery.
