Written question WQ100808

We will work to remove barriers and enable more co-operatives and social enterprises to compete successfully for public contracts. We plan greater use of reserved procurement opportunities, including below-threshold contracts and, where permitted, suppliers in a particular geographical area, alongside appropriate social value weightings.

The Procurement Act 2023 enables Welsh Ministers to publish a Wales Procurement Policy Statement that contracting authorities must have regard for, this will help to set clearer expectations to open opportunities to co-operatives, social enterprises, wider VCSE organisations and SMEs. We will also provide practical policy and guidance, improve transparency and monitor compliance through the Welsh Procurement Review Unit. These actions will help create more opportunities and support a diverse, resilient Welsh supplier base.