§ Mr. Altonasked the Minister of Transport which trunk road and motor way schemes, completed in 1973–74, 1974–75, 1975–76, 1976–77 and 1977–78, had construction costs exceeding the contract price; and what were the additional costs of those schemes affected.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeBecause of the uncertainties relating to civil engineering work, tenders are invited on the basis of estimated quantities. The conditions of contract provide for payment on the basis of actual quantities and for additional payments for extra or varied work. In addition, larger contracts contain provisions to take account of inflation.
Thus the final price can always be expected to exceed the tender price, and normally has done so.