As a Government Minister I had to deal with many difficult situations, but nothing that comes close to the present COVID-19 emergency. We’ve been concerned at the difficulties that both national and local government have had in ensuring that our frontline medical and social care staff are fully supported and well equipped. 

The market for PPE and other essential supplies is complex. Demand is volatile and varies by location, which means that a centralised procurement system won’t be able to deliver everything that’s needed.  Instead, we should be striking a balance between large-scale, nationwide procurement that ensures a baseline of supplies, and empowering local public-sector bodies to plug the gaps that they’ve identified. 

That’s why, at UK Partnerships, we’re working with existing partners to identify small and medium manufacturers (both in the UK and abroad) that guarantee quality, reliability and sensible pricing.

Phil Woolas – Director, UK Partnerships Ltd. Former Minister of Local Government, Environment and Treasury