Failed pandemic-era personal protective equipment (PPE) contracts cost the British taxpayer £1.4bn reveals an interim report commissioned by chancellor Rachel Reeves.
The Covid Counter Fraud Commissioner’s report has found that due to over-ordering and delays in checking £762m is unlikely to ever be recovered.
Recovery action has so far resulted in £182m being returned to the public purse and PPE suppliers referred to the National Crime Agency for suspected fraud.
Ms Reeves said: ‘This investigation and plan to recover public money underlines our commitment to ensure that every penny spent during the pandemic is fully accounted for.’
Most of the wasted money went on surgical gowns. Over half (52%) were non-compliant but because much of the defective PPE was not quality tested until after warranties had expired there is little chance of recovering the money.
This interim report marks the end...
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