NHS Scotland has been given the go-ahead to nominate a preferred bidder for the development of a Scottish Wide Area Network (SWAN).

The go-ahead comes after BT attempted to prevent NHS Scotland from continuing the bidding process after failing to be selected for the contract, with the telecoms giant complaining that: “the tender process was flawed” and failed to recognise the most “advantageous bid”.

NHS Scotland will be able to proceed with the procurement process after the courts found in their favour, with the preferred bidder expected to be a combined partnership between Capita and Updata.

BT has moved to appeal against the decision with a further hearing due for the 11th February.

A spokesman for the procurement body, National Services Scotland (NSS), described the procurement process as being “fair, robust and thorough”.

“The court has today upheld NSS’ request to have the suspension lifted and allow and award of contract to be made”.

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