§ SIR EDWARD WATKINasked the Postmaster General, Whether the contract for building a new Post Office at Folkestone has been given to a contractor at Bristol; whether he will lay upon the Table the names of the various contractors tendering, with the amounts of their tenders; and, if he will also state whether the contract is for a "lump sum," or may involve "extras?"
§ MR. HERBERT GLADSTONEThe contractors are Messrs. Howell and Son, of Bristol and London. Tenders were invited in the usual way by advertisement, and 18 were received. Following the usual course, the lowest tender was accepted. The Department does not deem it advisable to lay on the Table the names of the unsuccessful contractors, with the amounts of their tenders; but I shall be glad to give them to the hon. Baronet. The contract is for a lump sum; but it is quite impossible to say whether any extras will arise.