HC Deb 21 November 1973 vol 864 c423W
Sir D. Walker-Smith

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what are the current instructions to local authorities in regard to the acceptance of the lowest tender for public works contracts.

Mr. Rippon

Model standing orders are issued by my Department for the guidance of local authorities. The model requires that a tender other than the lowest shall not be accepted until the council has considered a written report from an appropriate officer. Where a local authority requires my consent to expenditure on works it is required to justify any proposal to accept a tender other than the lowest.