The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) in Scotland has asked public agencies across Scotland to document how they have helped small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) win business, it has emerged.

More than 130 public bodies received a letter from the organisation, which wants to make sure that the sector is following through with its pledge to open contracts to SMEs, reports the Glasgow Herald.

New regulations for public agencies regarding the transparency and fairness of tendering processes were introduced last year.

The guidelines state that contracts must be advertised widely and that organisations need to give structured feedback to businesses which have been unsuccessful with their tender attempt.

According to the Herald, the FSB is having difficulties monitoring agencies' compliance with the requirements and is therefore asking for proof.

In related news, the FSB in Wales released its assembly manifesto last month, which called for measures such as setting aside a certain amount of space in retail developments for independent shops.