The APPG for Public Sector Efficiency has launched a new survey to understand how procurement, commissioning and contract management are perceived and used across local government.
Launched at the LGA Conference in Bournemouth on 8 July 2026, the survey forms part of the APPG’s local government workstream, which is focused on how councils can achieve greater value for money and deliver better services for residents.
The survey will build a practical evidence base from elected members across the UK. It will explore whether procurement is seen mainly as a compliance process, or as a strategic tool for delivering better outcomes, financial resilience and assurance.
It will also help identify where councillors need clearer information, earlier engagement, stronger performance data or better support to scrutinise major contracts and commissioning decisions.
The survey will remain open until September and will be shared with council leaders for onward circulation to elected members, including cabinet members, scrutiny members, committee chairs and ward councillors.
Findings will be published in a report and circulated to local councils. The report will set out clear, actionable recommendations, supported by survey findings, research insights and interviews, to help strengthen procurement and commissioning as leadership, assurance and value-delivery tools within local government.
Councilors are encouraged to complete the survey.
Councils interested in being involved in the workstream can also contact the APPG Secretariat at secretariat@appgpse.org.uk.