§ Mr. Nigel Spearingasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will make a statement on the reasons for the increase in the estimated cost of landscaping and paving New Palace Yard from the estimate of £140,000 to £175,000 in June 1974 to his recent estimate of £303,000; and if he will place copies of the contract specifications and tenders received in the Library of the House of Commons.
§ Mr. ArmstrongThe figure of £140,000–£175,000 given to the House on 27th June 1974 was necessarily a spot estimate based on preliminary sketches and the outline proposals set out in the First Report from the Select Committee on House of Commons (Services) Session 1974. Details were only later worked out in close consultation with the Services Committee.
Consequent modifications included widening of roads to improve freedom of access for fire engines, ambulances and emergency appliances, and the construction of a new Members' entrance porch. The first phase contract at £66,000 was carried out by the term contractor currently employed at the Palace and the 462W Bailiff of the Royal Parks. The second phase of £237,000, which is now in hand, was placed after competitive tender.
Arrangements will be made for copies of the contract documents, including specification for both phases to be placed in the Library of the House of Commons. These will comprise such details of the second phase tenders received as are consistent with commercial confidence.
§ Mr. Andrew F. Bennettasked the Secretary of State for the Environment, in view of the fact that very few Members now enter New Palace Yard on horseback or in horse drawn vehicles, but an increasing number do enter on bicycles, if he will take steps to ensure that the cobbles now being laid in New Palace Yard are smooth enough to ensure the safety of cyclists.
§ Mr. ArmstrongThe surface treatment for the roadway in New Palace Yard is being carried out in accordance with the detail set out in the First Report of the Select Committee on House of Commons (Services), Session 1974, which was debated and approved by the House on 27th June 1974. The surface will be of granite setts, somewhat smoother than cobbles.