These new rules will ensure the £90bn that is spent each year through government contracts supports British jobs, skills and people in every postcode.” Central government departments are required to weigh up the social value of government contracts, which counts for 10% of the decision. The plans were criticised by environmental and green campaign groups, which said that job creation should not be a trade-off with protecting the environment. “Companies should be held to account with environmental targets to help achieve a better future without leaving young workers behind.” Friends of the Earth’s head of campaigns, Rosie Downes, said: “Encouraging companies to create good local jobs is crucial, but it shouldn’t be an either/or with efforts to safeguard our environment.