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Written question asked by Navendu Mishra (Labour) on Monday, 8 June 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 10 June 2026. It was answered by Ian Murray (Labour) on Tuesday, 16 June 2026 on behalf of the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology.


ICT: Public Sector

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, pursuant to the answer of 22 May 2026 to question 477 on Public Sector: ICT, if her Department will consider the use of open source software for the public sector to move away from reliance on large tech companies.

Answer

The Government supports a diverse and competitive technology landscape, including open-source software where it offers value, flexibility and resilience. This is outlined in the Technology Code of Practice, which encourages departments to consider the use of open-source solutions alongside proprietary options.

Departments are responsible for their own procurement decisions, in line with established rules and guidance and must secure value for money through fair and open competition. The Government promotes a diverse supplier base and aims to reduce overreliance on individual suppliers where this limits innovation, resilience and value for money.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
7573
Session
2026-27
Related items
ICT: Public Sector
Friday, 22 May 2026
Written questions
House of Commons
Subjects
ICT Companies Software Public sector Procurement
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk