Crowds on Princes Street, one of Scotland's largest and busiest shopping streets, in Edinburgh

Public spending to create jobs as Scotland leads the way

When it comes to using the purchasing of goods and services to benefit people and communities, Scotland is very much leading the way, according to a new, independent review.

The review, titled Scotland’s Journey of Achieving Sustainable Procurement Outcomes 2002-2022, has concluded that the procurement policies undertaken by the Scottish Government are of benefit to local businesses, communities and the environment. It also stated that “Scotland is regarded as a leader in the field of sustainable procurement.”

The policies being used by the Scottish Government have allowed small firms to secure contracts easier, whilst also specifying that businesses bidding for contracts must show how they intend to support their local area. This specification comes in the Procurement Reform (Scotland) Act 2014, where public bodies “must consider and act on opportunities to achieve environmental, economic and social benefits through spending on goods and services.” This has led to an estimated 120,000 jobs being supported in 2020-21, with £8.3 billion off public spending going towards benefitting communities.

Ivan McKee, Scottish Business Minister, said:

“Public bodies spend £14.5 billion a year on procurement and it is important that local businesses and communities across Scotland are able to benefit.

“The Scottish Government’s policies help ensure that this is the case, and make more effective use of public money.

“It is good to see this recognised as we continue our drive to create a fairer, greener and more prosperous economy for Scotland.”

Public Sector Executive, Feb/March, Cover

PSE Feb/March, 23

Greater choice, greater results

Our February/March 2023 edition of PSE brings you expert comment and analysis on a range of key public sector topics, from EV infrastructure to Digital transformation and reducing carbon emissions. Learn how the UK Government is investing in highway and freight innovation or read Cllr Matthew Hicks discuss the first step towards an exciting future for Suffolk, alongside so much more…

Videos...

View all videos
#PSE365: Public Sector Decarbonisation

Be A Part Of It!

PSE365: Public Sector Decarbonisation Virtual Event | 21 Mar 2023

PSE has created a full calendar of events to address the most important issues that influence the delivery of public sector services. 

Over 365 days you’ll have the opportunity to hear from a range of highly motivating, informative and inspirational speakers. These speakers will equip you with knowledge and unique insight to enable you to overcome the challenges that you face.

Industry Survey

What are the biggest issues facing the Public Sector?

 Public Sector Executive is undergoing some in-depth research around the issues the Public Sector is facing and the importance of deploying and using new technology within Public Sector organisations. 

We are asking for your help to better understand how public sector organisations are utilising technology to support their digital strategy and your opinion on what the biggest issues facing the public sector are.

This survey only takes a couple of minutes to complete and to thank you for your time and for filling out our survey, we'll enter you into a prize draw to win a £50 Amazon voucher.

In order to assist public sector organisations with improving their existing technology estate, we hope to leverage our findings to share best practises and innovations across the public sector.

More articles...

View all