Scottish Government procurement annual report: 2020

7. Brexit and Coronavirus

Statement on activity on Brexit and Coronavirus, the latter which is largely missed by the end of this reporting period.

We continued to monitor the level of any impact associated with Brexit particularly under a no-deal scenario. Engagement with key suppliers on SG-led agreements focused on preparedness and contingencies to minimise disruption and/or adverse commercial outcomes. We also worked collaboratively with sectoral procurement Centres of Expertise and UK Government commercial colleagues to enable an aligned approach and share knowledge.

At the tail end of this reporting period, there was a massive pivot to respond to the Coronavirus crisis and support organisations, suppliers and communities. We sought to maximise procurement resources through releasing colleagues to directly support our Health Directorate and NHS in the purchase of key product lines during the pandemic. Many of our agreements have been influential in supporting the wider effort e.g. Connecting Scotland (work that will be reported in next year’s annual report). We are also supporting our suppliers through the crisis with supplier relief initiatives and by re-prioritising demand.