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<p>NHS Supply Chain (NHSSC) has robust measures in place to monitor supply chains
and works closely with markets to ensure continuity of supply, so that the National
Health Service has the medical devices and clinical consumables it needs to deliver
care. Given the economic environment and global inflationary pressures, NHS Supply
Chain recognises the challenges that suppliers are facing and is committed to working
with them within the bounds of contractual agreements, to secure value for money for
taxpayers and maintain availability.</p><p> </p><p>An established process exists for
all price increase requests. These are evaluated by NHSSC on a case-by-case basis
in line with the terms and conditions of awarded framework agreements. In order for
an increase to be accepted, it needs to be justified and evidenced, and suppliers
are expected to play their part in mitigating their cost pressures.</p><p> </p><p>With
specific reference to energy costs, the Government remains committed to supporting
businesses via the Energy Bill Relief Scheme which provides a discount on the wholesale
element of gas and electricity bills to ensure that eligible non-domestic customers
are protected from excessively high energy costs over the winter period. Following
an HM Treasury led review, the new Energy Bill Discount Scheme will run from April
until March 2024 and continue to provide a discount to eligible non-domestic customers.</p>
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