HC Deb 11 March 1942 vol 378 cc1037-8
17. Mr. MacLaren

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works and Buildings how many Government building contracts have been given to Richard Costain, Limited; and what is the total amount involved?

Mr. Hicks

During the past 12 months, 20 contracts to the total value of approximately £1,560,000 have been let by Government Departments to Richard Costain, Limited. Four of these to the value of approximately £555,000 were let by the Ministry of Works.

Mr. McKinlay

Is the work measured, and are scheduled rates admitted?

Mr. Hicks

Three of the contracts were competitive. I cannot give any details.

Mr. McKinlay

Were scheduled rates admitted, and was payment based on the measurement of those scheduled rates when the contract was completed?

Mr. Hicks

I should want notice of that Question.

18. Mr. MacLaren

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works and Buildings, with regard to the firm of Howard and Souster, architects, now engaged upon Government contracts, what, to date, is the total sum agreed to be paid to them as fees for professional work in connection with these contracts?

Mr. Hicks

The total sum agreed to be paid, to date, to the firm for professional services in connection with the Commission held by the firm of Howard and Souster with my Department, is approximately £8,100. I am obtaining informa- tion regarding work which the firm may have in hand for other Government Departments and will inform my hon. Friend.