Government to set 3% apprentice target for major public jobs

Contractors on large government construction and infrastructure projects will face an apprenticeship target of at least 3% under plans to use public spending to back British industry.

The government will also tighten the definition of a UK supplier in a move aimed at firms with little more than a British postal address.

A new definition will be published by January 2027, helping departments track UK suppliers and subcontractors across public supply chains.

The government said: “For too long, broad definitions have allowed companies with little more than a UK post box to be classed as a UK firm.”

The changes will be followed by a new National Procurement Policy Statement, due to be laid in Parliament in March 2027.

This will prioritise high-quality jobs, fair pay and skills opportunities, including routes into work for young people.

New guidance on social value in central government procurement has also been published. Firms bidding for major government contracts will be judged on commitments to create high-quality jobs, tackle local skills shortages and support young people into employment.

The apprenticeship target will apply to large government infrastructure and construction projects.

Steel and energy infrastructure are among the strategic sectors singled out for support through government purchasing.

Ministers said the approach would strengthen domestic supply chains and safeguard UK capabilities, while continuing to contract with suppliers from international allies.

Government to set 3% apprentice target for major public jobs | Construction Enquirer News