Conclusion 34

We welcome the proposals to reduce bureaucracy in NHS procurement, which have been broadly well received by stakeholders. If they are implemented in a clear and transparent way, they have the potential to both streamline Trusts’ procurement practices and reduce their financial and administrative burdens. That said, a framework of clear guidance and monitoring will need to be put in place to ensure that a lighter touch regime does not inadvertently establish practices that favour incumbents and excludes innovators. We note that implementation of the Health and Social Care Act 2012 led to unintended consequences in terms of bureaucracy and procurement and therefore for this set of changes it is extremely important to make sure implementation is well executed.