
When rules are not enough: Procurement fraud lessons from the NHS Scotland case
The recent convictions arising from procurement activity within the Scottish NHS provide a stark reminder that procurement fraud remains a significant risk across the public sector. In June 2025, four individuals, including NHS officials and supplier representatives, were sentenced following convictions for bribery, corruption and fraud offences connected to telecommunications contracts worth approximately £6 million. Prosecutors described a scheme in which public officials received benefits including cash, holidays and entertainment in exchange for procurement advantages.


