Work is being done under the Government’s code of practice for project management and procurement, MPs heard this morning.

Walton Brown, the Minister for the Cabinet Office, said efforts are being made to “leverage the Government’s purchasing power, maximise efficiencies and achieve cost savings”.

Mr Brown said framework agreements were being used to cut down on a “repetitive” tendering process.

At least three framework agreements are expected to be in place before the end of the present fiscal year.

• To read Walton Brown’s statement in full, click on the PDF under “Related Media”