Written question asked by Fleur Anderson (Labour) on Monday, 26 April 2021, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 29 April 2021 (named day). It was answered by Julia Lopez (Conservative) on Thursday, 29 April 2021 on behalf of the Cabinet Office.

Procurement: China

Question: To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office, what the Government's policy is on the procurement of products that contain cotton from Xinjiang, China; when that policy was introduced; where that policy is stated; and whether that policy includes mandatory provisions; and to which parts of the public sector that policy applies.

Answer: The Cabinet Office has published commercial policy and guidance setting out the steps that all Government departments must take to identify and mitigate modern slavery and labour abuse risks throughout the commercial life cycle focussing on the areas of highest risk. This policy is mandatory for all Central Government Departments, their Executive Agencies and Non-Departmental Public Bodies. The policy can be found at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/procurement-policy-note-0519-tackling-modern-slavery-in-government-supply-chains

Secondary information