Why are government contracts confidential?
In many countries the whole tendering, opening and awarding process is open including Canada and the States.
Government contracts awarded for routine supplies are published and this allows suppliers not listed to get on a bidding list which increases the competition and, often, decreases costs.
Therefore the British government should adopt these practices so that the Cameron Heinz 57 government can achieve it's fiscal goals.
The Blair/Brown government's seemingly cosy relationships with suppliers no doubt cost British taxpayers plenty although undoubtedly providing a source of funds during elections or jobs following parliamentary retirement for politicians involved in these transactions.