DISCLAIMER:
This duty is currently under review and has not yet been formally signed off by the relevant professional association. The information provided is for reference only and should not be treated as final or authoritative guidance. Please verify any decisions against approved sources or seek professional advice. Updates will be published once sign-off is complete.
Simple terms explainer
When councils award public contracts worth more than a set value (threshold), they are legally required to comply with procurement regulations designed to ensure transparency, fairness, and competition. These rules usually require contracts to be publicly advertised, with suppliers invited to submit tenders and evaluation conducted against clear and objective criteria. The purpose of these requirements is to safeguard the proper use of public funds, promote equal opportunities for businesses, and secure best value for the authority and the communities it serves.
Legal status
Statutory
Duty category
Business and legal
Corporate services
Duty type
Compliance
Social determinant of health
Economic stability
Emerging policy and legislation
1
National bodies with shared interest
Scotland Excel
Directors of Finance
Scottish Procurement Alliance (SPA)
Audit Scotland / Accounts Commission
Scottish Local Government Procurement Forum (SLGPF)
Association for Public Service Excellence (APSE)
Standards and Frameworks
3