Government must change the way it does business in order to support UK interests and achieve better value for money, according to Cabinet Office minister Francis Maude.

Speaking at a Cabinet Office event organised for government suppliers and potential suppliers earlier this week, Maude outlined government’s priorities for streamlining and reforming procurement processes.

He also gave a clear sign that ministers want officials to build closer relationships with suppliers. “There is a myth prevalent across the public sector that talking to suppliers informally is somehow contrary to EU law,” he said.  “This is nonsense – straight forward nonsense.  So let me bust that myth today.”

“It is not illegal for public sector procurers to talk to suppliers.  Not only is it not illegal it’s plain common sense and good commercial practice.
“It makes commercial sense to nurture our relationships with suppliers and to discuss what’s coming up on pipelines, investment plans, supply chains and pre-procurement issues.”

To watch videos from the event and view the full text of Maude’s speech click here.

You can download presentations from the event here.

Last updated 179 days ago by Civil Service World