HC Deb 17 June 1968 vol 766 c692
21. Mr. Wellbeloved

asked the Minister of Public Building and Works what opportunities smaller builders have to tender for his Department's contracts; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Mellish

My Department maintains an approved list of contractors from which selection is made when tenders are invited for individual projects. Smaller and medium sized builders are given opportunities to tender for appropriate works as these occur in their areas. They are also given opportunities to tender for term contracts which provide continuity of work in a given area.

Mr. Wellbeloved

Will my right hon. Friend spell out in a little more detail the procedure by which small firms can get on to his approved list?

Mr. Mellish

Any small firm has the right to apply to go on our list. When such firms apply they are graded and asked for details of their financial capacity and the work they are doing. After that they are put on our list, if approved, and at later dates they are asked to tender.