Alongside the National Statement, the Cabinet Office has issued a new Public Procurement Note (PPN) which requires all central government departments to set targets for SME spend and VCSE spend. Copies of the PPN are available here – other public authorities may introduce such requirements.

Under the Procurement Act 2023 there are powers for authorities to reserve contracts for organisations that support disadvantaged people in to work. We hope that this PPN will be followed up by a similar one requiring targets to be set in line with the Governments plans to Make Work Pay.