Many of the most technically-gifted would run a mile from the strictures of military discipline. Greater agility in procurement could also give us an edge.
This is a contribution to the debate – now let’s see what the candidates offer during the week ahead.
At one point, City Hall officials told me the only way to get a project done was to hire external lawyers to take City Hall’s procurement lawyers to court.
The MoD should use the opportunity of Brexit to reflect on whether EU competition rules should continue to apply to procurement.
We must seize the opportunities to provide services in a more efficient way – cutting the long delays on public procurement is an obvious example.
We cannot say the NHS is free at the point of access if people face extortionate fees to get to appointments or visit sick relatives.
Take the time to create an accurate specification – millions can be wasted on late changes.