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<p>The Parliamentary Procurement and Commercial Service (PPCS), which manages procurement processes for the Parliamentary Digital Service, has no explicit policies in place associated with these matters primarily because, in keeping with wider HM Government procurement policies, we source nearly all of our information and technology (ICT) requirements through the digital marketplace managed by the Crown Commercial Service (part of the Cabinet Office hosted Government Commercial Function).</p><p>Where a bespoke PPCS contract is entered into (whether in ICT or other categories), our standard terms include provisions enforcing the Living Wage and for certain Discrimination, Safeguarding & Human Rights. These will shortly be supplemented by provisions associated with the Modern Slavery Act where contractors will be obligated to assist Parliament with an investigation should Parliament harbour a reasonable suspicion that a âSpecified Offenceâ has been or is being committed by any member of the supply chain, directly or indirectly in connection with the performance of the contract in question. Breach of this condition would entitle Parliament to terminate the contract in question with immediate effect.</p><p>Additionally, the Parliamentary Procurement and Commercial Service in partnership with the Parliamentary Digital Service, seeks to ensure that suppliers evidence through their tender submissions and throughout the duration of the contract:</p><ul><li>compliance with health and safety law and best practice for the benefit of their staff and ours;</li><li>implementation of equal opportunities, inclusivity and diversity policies in relation to staff when performing the contract;</li><li>they ensure staff concerned with providing the goods and services work in conditions that are beneficial to their welfare, including being paid a fair wage for their work.</li></ul> |