Meanwhile, from April the government is launching a new online tool that will enable government buyers to engage earlier with SMEs. The portal will allow buyers to put informal postings about upcoming purchases, and SMEs will be able to respond and explain what they can offer.

The government is also planning to appoint a senior SME 'champion' in every major government department to increase the level of SME engagement.

Stephen Allott, Crown Representative for SMEs, believes the new measures will help the government make more progress this year.

"I've seen real progress. Today's announcements show that the level of commitment to the whole agenda is going even further. The government is committing to a range of innovative policy ideas, including getting SMEs to rate buying departments and hold their feet to the fire," he said.