REVEALED: Welsh firms missing out on dozens of big-money Welsh Government procurement opportunities
A Welsh Conservative Government would support Wales’ businesses to be more competitive in bidding for public sector procurement contracts, and give greater priority to the procurement of made-in Wales produce.
The announcement comes as new figures, uncovered by the Party, reveal the number of big-money, Welsh Government contracts which are not being awarded to Wales-based businesses.
Over the course of the Fourth Assembly, 130 contracts valued over £500,000 have been awarded by the Welsh Government's Corporate Procurement team – but only 53% of these have gone to Wales-based firms.
Meanwhile, in corporate procurement, only 36% of the 44 contracts which carry a value of over £500,000 have been awarded to businesses based in Wales.
The figures reveal the number of contracts which Wales' businesses are missing out on – which a Welsh Conservative administration would seek to change, by improving relationship with businesses, offering better access to smaller firms and promoting the benefits of local procurement across the public sector.
Shadow Economy Minister, William Graham AM, said:
"A Welsh Conservative Government would work closely with domestic firms in Wales; securing real change by ensuring they were better equipped to access vital public sector procurement contracts.
"Procurement procedures can play a vital role in growing the Welsh economy, by creating employment opportunities, encouraging firms to grow and expand. This can also prove vital to our steel industry.
"Sadly, as the UK economy surges forward, Wales risks being left behind. It is vital a future Welsh Government works closely with businesses to help them compete.
"We would also deliver better access to the public procurement process for smaller companies, charities and voluntary organisations; prioritising access for those based in Wales."
