The over-riding procurement policy requirement is that all public procurement must be based on value for money, defined as “the best mix of quality and effectiveness for the least outlay over the period of use of the goods or services bought”.
This should be achieved through competition, unless there are compelling reasons to the contrary.
Public sector procurement is subject to a legal framework which encourages free and open competition and value for money, in line with internationally and nationally agreed obligations and regulations.
As part of its strategy, the government aligns procurement policies with this legal framework, as well as with its wider policy objectives.
