Net-zero considerations will be removed from the social-value criteria used to score bids for major government contracts from next year in favour of a jobs and skills focus. Amman Boughan, chief at Pagabo Group, said: “The direction of travel, to simplify the model, helps to cut the red tape that locks smaller firms out, and focuses squarely on jobs, skills and community impact. The new social-value guidance will apply to central government departments, their executive agencies and non-departmental public bodies awarding contracts under the Procurement Act 2023. Loading…The change does not remove net zero from the government procurement regime, however. “It should create local jobs, develop skills and open opportunities for those who need them most.”