Companies recommended by MPs, peers and ministers' offices were given priority as the government raced to obtain Personal Protective Equipment, the National Audit Office found.
Over half of the £18bn spent on pandemic-related contracts was awarded without competitive tender, it said.
The spending watchdog said the government was not transparent about suppliers and services.
It also found there was inadequate explanation of key spending decisions.
The watchdog found not enough was done to address potential conflicts of interest by ministers and other government officials.
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